Insights

International law firms instructing Dutch local counsel should expect responsive communication, partner-level judgment, concise English-language advice, scope discipline and early escalation of Dutch issues that affect the main deal documents or closing timetable.

Dutch private equity shows a mixed picture: fundraising reached a six-year high, while dealmaking cooled. More dry powder does not automatically mean easier exits, higher valuations or simpler deals.

A signed SPA does not establish the complete authority chain. Buyer, seller and target approvals must align with the final Dutch closing documents.

A cap table shows the intended economics, but Delaware stock ledgers, Dutch shareholder registers and notarial deeds determine the legal ownership record.

A foreign power of attorney must establish valid corporate authority and permit execution of the specific Dutch notarial deed.

A Delaware parent can control a Dutch subsidiary, but binding instructions require articles-level support and remain subject to Dutch board duties.

A Delaware corporation and Dutch BV can perform similar roles, but their governance, investor rights and corporate execution mechanics differ.

US transaction documents can often be used for Dutch acquisitions, but Dutch corporate, employment and notarial mechanics require separate implementation.

International lead counsel should retain control of the transaction while Dutch counsel takes ownership of the Dutch legal and notarial workstream.