As an emerging market, LATAM is a hot topic when it comes to Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A). That likely won’t change anytime soon, so Eman Pulis, founder of the SiGMA Group, moderated a panel with Susan Breen, Partner at Mishcon de Reya, Andre Gelfi, Managing Partner at Suaposta, Cristina Romero, Partner at Loyra to discuss how to navigate the market.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-79yKpk25fk?start=14599&feature=oembed]

From a broad perspective, Breen noted that LATAM is seeing investment, large and small, but those getting in early expect to do better. “We are seeing a hedging position really against Europe, possibly Asia, and a choice between Africa, the U.S. and LATAM coming into play,” he said. “Early adopters in the market always do well, and I think there are a slew of both operators B2B providers and investors who are watching and waiting. And I think the watching and the waiting is largely about how profitable and successful could they make a market entry into one of those LATAM jurisdictions.”

Romero agreed, and noted that if you are looking into the LATAM market, it’s best to make some local friends first. “One thing that both operators and also financial investors are looking at is always have a local partner, even if it’s just a minority, because it’s really important to understand the region.”