The National Security and Investment (NSI) Act – the biggest shake-up of the UK’s national security regime for 20 years – commenced on the 4 January 2022.
The government is now able to scrutinise and intervene in certain acquisitions made by anyone, including businesses and investors, that could harm the UK’s national security.
The government will also be able to impose certain conditions on an acquisition or, if necessary, unwind or block it – although it is expected this will happen rarely and the vast majority of deals will require no intervention and be able to proceed without delay.
See: New laws to strengthen national security come into effect – GOV.UK
Acquisitions often provide a business with an opportunity to accelerate growth, vertically integrate its business activities or diversify into similar and/or counter cyclical businesses.
Contact Paul Ashton or your usual Beavis Morgan Partner for further information about how we can help you secure the right investment opportunity and maximise the potential of your investment.