Appleby Cayman Advises Guardian Capital Group Limited on Recent Landmark Deal
Appleby is pleased to announce its role in having advised Guardian Capital Group Limited (Guardian) on the successful completion of the CAD$1.67 billion take private acquisition of Guardian by Desjardins Global Asset Management Inc. (DGAM), marking one of the most significant change of ownership transactions involving regulated businesses in the jurisdiction in recent years.
The transaction was completed in March 2026 by way of a statutory plan of arrangement. Further to completion, Guardian and DGAM together oversee approximately CAD$280 billion in combined assets under management.
Appleby advised Guardian on all Cayman Islands legal and regulatory aspects of the transaction, including the successful securing of multiple high-value change-of-ownership approvals from the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority.
This transaction further highlights Appleby’s market leading position in global financial services M&A work, involving complex cross-border regulatory requirements and considerations.
The Appleby multi-disciplinary team was led by Simon Raftopoulos, Managing Partner, with Miriam Smyth acting as lead Regulatory Counsel, supported by Martin Byers, Regulatory Partner. Specialist advice was provided by Darryl Jago, Corporate Senior Associate, and Adam Johnson, Property Partner.
