Theo is a founding partner of Spencer West in Cyprus and a highly experienced corporate lawyer with particular expertise in Financial Services Regulation. He specialises in advising on the structuring, licensing, and ongoing regulatory compliance of various financial entities in Cyprus including Electronic Money Institutions (EMI), Payment Institutions (PI), Crypto-Assets Service Providers (CASPs), Cyprus Investment Firms – Forex(CIFs), Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) and Alternative Investment Funds Managers (AIFM). He is also a member of the Nicosia and Cyprus Bar Association.
Before founding Spencer West, Theo worked at one of Cyprus’s leading law firms, where he specialised in corporate and financial services regulatory issues. Known for his exceptional communication skills and ability to navigate complex legal matters, Theo was selected to represent the firm in London and appointed as a director. He also actively participated in numerous forums and conferences, sharing his expertise on Financial Services Regulatory matters.
With a deep understanding of national laws, EU regulations, and a vast network within the investment community, Theo is well-positioned to provide clients in Cyprus and across the European Union with tailored, comprehensive legal advice that meets their specific needs.
Relevant Experience:
- Offering expert guidance on the structuring, licensing, and ongoing regulatory compliance of various investment vehicles, spanning from Private Equity Funds, Cyprus Investment Firms (CIFs), and Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs).
- Providing advice and licensing support for Alternative Investment Funds Managers (AIFMs) in Cyprus.
- Handle the licensing and provision of legal and regulatory advice of Payment Institutions (PI), Electronic Money Institutions (EMI) and Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs) operating in Cyprus.
- Crafting tailored solutions for private equity structures, including a recent engagement with a regional fashion retailer.
- Advising various Venture Capital firms and Family offices on a range of investment-related matters, such as takeovers, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, as well as compliance and regulatory issues.
- Advising clients across a range of industries, including FinTech, real estate, pharmaceutical, fashion, and hospitality, and has developed a deep understanding of the unique legal and business challenges facing each sector.