Overview

“We have deep trust and respect for Chris. His knowledge of what works and how to deal with tax people is astoundingly broad. Chris brings an encyclopedia of tax knowledge to our matters, while also being business-minded and business-friendly.”

Chris focuses on Canadian and international tax planning for investment funds, financial institutions, pension funds, mining companies and high-net-worth individuals, including professional athletes and entertainers. He provides tax advice related to cross-border transactions, private and public mergers and acquisitions, reorganizations, debt restructurings, insolvency proceedings, equity compensation plans and spinoffs. Chris also represents taxpayers in disputes with the Canada Revenue Agency and provincial authorities.

Chris is a co-author of the textbook Canadian Taxation of Trusts. Chris provides pro bono advice to UNITY, an organization that uses arts programming to help youth develop skills for success.

Acted for Agnico Eagle Mines Limited in its US$325-million acquisition from B2Gold Corp. of its 70% interest in Fingold Ventures Ltd., a joint venture held by B2Gold together with its 30% joint venture partner Aurion Resources Ltd., as part of a comprehensive consolidation of properties in the Central Lapland Greenstone Belt of Northern Finland that establishes Finland as a multi-asset, multi-decade regional platform within Agnico Eagle's portfolio.

Acted for BHP in its US$4.3-billion silver streaming agreement with Wheaton Precious Metals International Ltd. relating to its share of Antamina silver production – the most valuable streaming transaction to date based on upfront consideration received.

Acted as Canadian counsel to lead placement agent, Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, on the PIPE financing supporting Xanadu Quantum Technologies’ US$3-billion business combination with Crane Harbor Acquisition Corp.

Acting for Plenary Americas in its C$1.2-billion take-private acquisition of Information Services Corporation, a leading provider of public data registry and information management services, and its related engagement with the Government of Saskatchewan with respect to legislative amendments to facilitate the transaction.

Acted for Novanta Inc. in its US$632.5-million U.S. public offering of tangible equity units.

Practice Areas

• Taxation Law

Bar Information

Called to the bar: 2006 (ON)