Gide Loyrette Nouel is celebrating its approval to provide Hong Kong and English law advice, following the opening the Hong Kong office in 2006.

"The addition of Hong Kong and English law capability was a logical next step for the firm as it provides our international clients with a seamless platform from which to do business in Asia," said senior partner Pierre Raoul-Duval.

The firm has appointed finance lawyers Colin Mercer and Balbir Bindra to lead its Asia banking & finance practice. Bindra joins the firm from Sidley Austin, and Mercer will move between Gide's London and Hong Kong offices. The firm said that the Asia banking & finance practice will also be adding New York-qualified lawyers.