Davis Polk partner and Mergers & Acquisitions practice head Oliver Smith discussed Davis Polk’s leading M&A practice with The Lawyer as part of the publication’s Global Elite 2026 report. The annual report examines the firms best positioned to advise major corporates on their largest and most complex transactions. 

“From an M&A lens, our presence in the market has grown, our skillset has improved and we started in a great place,” Oliver explained. “We’ve recognized shifts in the market and we’re ready for those competitive threats, as many other firms are competing very hard for the same work.”

When asked about Davis Polk’s continued momentum in the global M&A market and the firm’s lateral hiring strategy in the U.S. and London, Oliver noted, “We’re not active in the lateral market for the sake of being active. It’s thoughtful, deliberate and strategic – all have to hit for us.”

“Global Elite 2026,” The Lawyer (September 30, 2026) (subscription required)

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