Anglo-German law firm CMS has strengthened its funds offering in Asia with the appointment of Paul Moloney as a partner in its Hong Kong office from Mayer Brown.

Moloney brings over two decades of experience in advising asset managers and financial institutions on public and private fund formation and regulatory issues across Asia, Europe, and various offshore centres.

His expertise includes advising on Hong Kong licensing matters related to the Securities and Futures Commission, the Department of Customs and Excise, and the Companies Registry. He also represents investors in private investment funds.

Before joining Mayer Brown in 2021, Moloney was a partner at Eversheds. His prior employers include Akin Gump and Irish law firm Dillon Eustace.

"Paul is well established in funds and has an excellent market profile in Hong Kong and internationally, built up over 20 years," said Caryn Miller, joint managing director for Asia and the Middle East at CMS, in a statement. "His addition to CMS will significantly bolster our funds and regulatory capability in Asia and complement our strong European funds practice."

Joining Moloney in the move to CMS is senior associate Gigi Ma. Ma, who advises asset managers and financial institutions, also worked with Moloney at Eversheds.

Moloney becomes CMS’ second Hong Kong partner hire from Mayer Brown in two years, following the move of shipping finance head Conor Warde in February 2023.

Mayer Brown recently announced that it plans to separate from its current Hong Kong operations.