Arthur Byara
Private Equity

Private Equity

I work with founders, investors, business owners. From formation stage to debt and equity financings, my advice assists clients make strategic decisions.

East Africa is one of the most vibrant regions in Africa with a young population and a lot of growth potential for businesses. Over 80% of the core market segment in the largest investment rounds have been Fintechs and payment businesses. Half of the mobile money users worldwide are based in Africa. The last three years have seen majority of investments in the Fintech space in Africa. This region has recorded triple digit growth in the venture funding. The venture capital eco system requires precise handling of the different stakeholders. Let me add value as you make decisions.

By ensuring your business is well structured, you will minimise obstacles as you scale and interact with potential partners and investors. I have been privileged to work with innovators, investors, start-ups and companies seeking market entry into this region. Finding the right partner has assisted clients raise capital and expertise to scale their operations. My approach is to partner with clients and other advisers to offer strategic advice to clients. Let me foresee potential issues that may impact your future plans.

Capacities.

Let us chat more about some of these services:

  • Tax structuring;

  • General corporate and governance matters,

  • Key commercial contracts;

  • Regulatory compliance;

  • Debt and equity investments;

  • Intellectual property planning;

  • Mergers and acquisitions;

  • Fund formation and liquidation;

  • Fundraising, seed financing;

  • Due diligence;

  • Impact investing;

  • Portfolio company management

  • Data privacy and cyber security;

  • Real estate;

  • Corporate formations;

  • Employment matters;

  • Exit strategies; and

  • General legal and tax advice.

What is the usual work you handle for funds?

While regulators mainly adopt a “wait and see” approach to innovations in this region, businesses must find new ways to attract opportunities and partners. Let me work with you on all legal aspects of investment funds lifecycle including assessment of risks and steering them through the complex legal and regulatory framework. I am happy to chat about the legal and regulatory aspects associated with fund formation life cycle and related matters.

My services for funds include:

  • Regulator clarifications;

  • Private tax rulings on complex or one off transactions in this region;

  • Legal and regulatory advisory on registration, operational requirements;

  • Negotiation support – third parties, regulators, investors, banks;

  • Due diligence on third parties;

  • Preparation and legal advisory support on fund documents;

  • Day to day compliance management. I work with founders, investors, business owners on a day to day basis on legal and tax structuring. From formation stage to debt and equity financings, my advice assists clients make strategic decisions. Relationship building with founders and aligning post investment goals helps spot issues. Many start-ups have to plan for their valuable IP assets in their innovations. It is exciting to assist clients scale their operations. Let me help you push innovation. Away from the office, I love the outdoors and am a keen rugby fan.

Private Equity