The legal world is gearing up for the highly anticipated 2nd Annual IBA Asset Recovery Conference, scheduled for December 4-6, 2024, at the stunning Riu Plaza España in Madrid, Spain. This event, presented by the IBA Asset Recovery Committee, promises to bring together global experts to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in asset recovery, from tracing assets across borders to navigating the legal intricacies of sanctions enforcement.

Here’s a detailed preview of the conference program and its significance in shaping the future of asset recovery.

Why Asset Recovery Matters

Asset recovery sits at the intersection of law, justice, and economics. Whether dealing with fraud, insolvency, or sanctions, recovering assets is often a high-stakes endeavor. For practitioners, this requires staying ahead of complex legal frameworks, international treaties, and innovative concealment techniques. The IBA Asset Recovery Committee provides a platform for professionals to exchange insights and develop best practices in this critical area.

Key Themes and Highlights of the Conference

The 2024 conference will cover diverse topics tailored for legal practitioners, policymakers, and industry experts. Let’s explore some of the program’s highlights.

1. Tackling and Conquering Defenses in Asset Recovery

Debtors are becoming increasingly creative in evading recovery efforts. This session will explore strategies for overcoming common and uncommon defenses, including:

• Misuse of restructuring plans.
• Challenges of piercing the corporate veil.
• Surpassing alter ego arguments and third-party interference.

These discussions are essential for creditors seeking robust strategies to enforce judgments against elusive debtors.

2. Spotlight on Maritime Asset Recovery

Assets tied to maritime trade, such as vessels and cargo, present unique challenges. This panel will address:

• Tracing and enforcing claims against movable property.
• Legal hurdles in establishing ownership.
• The impact of international conventions.

Given the global nature of maritime trade, this session will appeal to practitioners involved in cross-border asset tracing.

3. Diamonds and Blockchain: Innovating Asset Recovery

The diamond industry is often associated with significant asset concealment. This session will examine:

• The role of blockchain and tokenization in tracing diamonds.
• Challenges in enforcing claims against physical assets.
• Compliance with international sanctions.

With blockchain technology revolutionizing asset recovery, this session offers a glimpse into the future of enforcement mechanisms.

4. Role of Regulators and Small-Scale Fraud

Two key panels will explore:

• The interplay between regulatory frameworks and recovery strategies.
• Solutions for victims of small-scale fraud, where legal costs often outweigh potential recoveries.

These discussions aim to make asset recovery accessible to all victims, irrespective of the scale of the fraud.

Emerging Challenges: Sanctions and Cross-Border Fraud

Also, two sessions stand out for their timeliness:

1. Sanctions Enforcement: The panel will analyze the implications of sanctions on enforcement, particularly in the wake of global geopolitical shifts.
2. Leveraging Insolvency Tools: Experts will delve into cross-border fraud strategies, highlighting how insolvency laws can be weaponized to recover concealed assets.

These sessions are critical for practitioners navigating the evolving landscape of international law.

Notable Features and Leadership

The conference is the result of the dedicated efforts of the IBA Asset Recovery Committee and its organizing team (which includes myself), all of whom have contributed to shaping a program that addresses some of the most pressing issues in asset recovery on a global scale.

Youth Engagement: The Future of Asset Recovery

The Youth Asset Recovery Club Meeting is a standout feature of the conference, targeting the next generation of professionals. This initiative provides young lawyers with opportunities to:

• Build networks with global experts.
• Hone their skills through targeted workshops and discussions.

Eligibility criteria include membership in the IBA and fewer than 15 years of professional experience, making it an inclusive platform for aspiring leaders.

Social and Networking Opportunities

The conference goes beyond academic discussions by offering exceptional networking events:

• A welcome reception at the 360° Skybar of the Riu Plaza España.
• The prestigious conference dinner at the Casino de Madrid, providing attendees with a chance to connect in a relaxed and elegant setting.

Why Attend?

Here’s why the 2024 IBA Asset Recovery Conference is unmissable:

• Comprehensive Coverage: From maritime issues to blockchain applications, the conference addresses a wide spectrum of topics.
• Expert Insights: Gain actionable knowledge from thought leaders in asset recovery.
• Global Networking: Connect with peers and industry leaders from across the globe.
• Professional Development: Attendees can earn CPD/CLE credits and enhance their professional standing.

Conclusion

The 2nd Annual IBA Asset Recovery Conference promises to be a transformative event, offering unparalleled insights and networking opportunities. For professionals dedicated to navigating the complexities of asset recovery, this conference is an invaluable resource.

Don’t miss the chance to join the global conversation on asset recovery this December 4-6, 2024, in Madrid. Secure your spot today and become part of a leading network of experts shaping the future of this critical field. For more details, visit the IBA conference website.