The Deal

Activist investor and adviser Michael Levin explains how he's seeking to strengthen a Delaware settlement to require a binding pay vote at the electric car maker, and he talks Tesla reincorporation and more.

Jake Kling, Wachtell attorney, shares insights on career progression in M&A law, contrasting case reading approaches as clerk vs. litigation, navigating growth as a young associate, reflecting on memorable deals as a partner, and transitioning to partner while balancing parenting.

Lincolnshire principal Matt Nacier discusses the firm's interest and investments in business services, including facility services, an increase in M&A opportunities in 2024 and more.

On this week’s episode of Drinks With The Deal, Ryan Stone, a corporate development professional at Cadence Design Systems, discusses how an early stint in the Marine Corps helped shape his career. 

Elina Tetelbaum is an activist defense partner at Wachtell Lipton Rosen & Katz, specializing in corporate activism preparedness. She discusses the crucial role of Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) in activist investing, sharing insights on how they strategically shape negotiations between corporate boards and activists. Elina highlights Disney's tactical use of an NDA to navigate pressures from activist investors, illustrating how confidentiality can influence significant corporate decisions. With real-world case studies and anecdotes, she underscores the importance of effective negotiation in this dynamic landscape.

Steve Cohen talks about his legal career, from working for the Cuomos to handling a case for Napster. He reflects on pivotal moments, mentors, and transitioning from prosecuting gangs to white-collar cases. The podcast also explores his move to public service during the COVID pandemic.

On this week’s Drinks With The Deal podcast, Chris Machera, the co-head of PE at Weil, discusses how early jobs in restaurants and as a paralegal were great training for life as a lawyer. 

Macquarie Capital's global head of financial sponsors Tom Amster discusses private equity's dealmaking prospects in 2024 amid mounting pressure to return capital to LPs.

Ethan Klingsberg and Elizabeth Bieber, leading activist defense attorneys at Freshfields, dive deep into the world of activist investing. They discuss the growing influence of firms like Elliott Management and the complexities of consultant roles in corporate decisions. The duo highlights the tension between activist investors and corporate governance, particularly in insider-controlled companies. They also address board dynamics, subcommittee formations, and how companies can strategically handle activist challenges to protect their interests.

Kathy Ruhland discusses leading deal teams and being co-head of the corporate practice group at DLA Piper as well as her time in-house at General Mills.