ENS has secured 2 major wins at the 2024 Global Competition Review Awards. This follows our recent GCR1000 ranking as an elite department, which places us among the world's top competition law practices.

We advised our clients on the following winning matters:

Microsoft / Blizzard - Matter of the Year: ENS advised on the USD 68.7 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard. ENS provided advice in relation to and prepared and submitted the South African merger notification. Numerous third parties lodged objections to the transaction with the South African Commission during the investigation phase of the approval. Notwithstanding this, the Commission referred the matter to the Tribunal for unconditional approval and the Tribunal ultimately approved the matter without conditions. Our team was led by Jocelyn Katz and Aidan Scallan, with the support of Lameez Mayet and Macalen Chetty.

Broadcom/VMware - Merger Control Matter of the Year - Asia-Pacific, Middle East, or Africa: ENS advised on The acquisition by Broadcom Inc. of 100% of VMware, valued at approximately USD 61 billion, will be one of the largest deals of 2022/2023. The transaction is global and was notified in multiple jurisdictions. In South Africa, the transaction resulted in overlaps and was also scrutinised by the Commission from a public interest perspective, particularly concerning the proposed transaction's impact on employment and the promotion of a greater spread of ownership. Our team was led by Jocelyn Katz, Aidan Scallan, Sphiwe Dlamini and Zaid Bhayat.

Head of Competition, Jocelyn Katz, said, "With our extensive experience advising both national and international companies across diverse industries, we set ourselves apart by integrating competition law and economics uniquely tailored to the African context. Clients value our ability to deliver commercially relevant solutions aligned with their risk framework and appetite."

ENS remains dedicated to exceeding expectations and driving success. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our valued clients for their continued trust and support. Your partnership is integral to our success, and we remain committed to delivering top-tier service and strategic counsel to advance your objectives.