Gavin White, Partner at Fraser Brown Solicitors, said, "No-one can deny that 2009 was a tough time for corporate finance but it is pleasing to be able to report that we have seen a much more positive start to 2010."
"Enquiry levels are certainly increasing and as momentum begins to gather we are seeing more opportunities and potential transactions emerge at all levels. The market generally is busier and hopefully will continue to gather pace as the year goes on. "
"A number of barriers do still exist however. Sellers remain cautious and amongst those that are willing to move forward some still have unrealistic price expectations. From a buyer perspective accessing funding in some circumstances continues to be challenging, although the situation regarding banks lending seems more transparent than last year and the increasing willingness of Business Angels and smaller VC funds to lend has done much to ease this issue."
"It is generally accepted now in the corporate market that parties to deals are scrutinising all aspects of the deal process much more closely, which means that many deals are taking longer to complete than would usually be the case."
"In short, there is definitely an increased willingness from all sides to do deals but the corporate finance community needs to continue to work hard to create and originate transactional opportunities. I am confident that things will continue to improve throughout the year, but definite trends remain difficult to predict."
Fraser Brown is a dynamic law practice working at premises in Nottinghamshire through its branches in Nottingham, Radcliffe on Trent and Bingham.
Its philosophy is to deliver superior legal advice through a personal and highly professional service for both commercial and private clients. Since 1990, Fraser Brown has acquired eight established and respected local firms as part of its major growth strategy for doing business in the 21st Century.
Fraser Brown is one of the region's longest established firms of solicitors. Over the last 12 months, it has experienced significant growth in areas such as property, contract work, construction and general litigation.