Singapore introduces default procedure for multi-party arbitration appointments

February 9, 2021 Elizabeth Wahl

The Singapore government has amended its International Arbitration Act (SIAA) to introduce a default procedure for appointment of arbitrators in multi-party arbitrations.

The amendments also give Singapore-seated arbitral tribunals and the Singapore High Court the power to enforce confidentiality obligations.

A Quick Guide to the 2021 Rules of the DIFC-LCIA Arbitration Centre

February 2, 2021 Elizabeth Wahl

The DIFC-LCIA Arbitration Centre (the "Centre") recently released updated Arbitration Rules which apply to arbitrations commenced on or after 1 January 2021 (the “2021 Rules”). Replacing the 2016 Rules, the 2021 Rules essentially mirror the changes made in 2020 to the LCIA's Arbitration Rules, hence they reflect a "light touch" update rather than a drastic re-write. With the 2021 Rules (available here) at their disposal, arbitrators, parties and counsel can expect a clearer process and more efficient and expeditious proceedings going forward.

What the ICC and LCIA rule changes mean for international arbitration in 2021

January 13, 2021 Elizabeth Wahl

Following Brexit, international arbitration has become an even more appealing option for dealing with cross-border disputes, as discussed in a recent article. At least until the post-Brexit recognition and enforcement regime becomes clearer, parties may be inclined to take the arbitration route when it is available.

The London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) are two of the big players in cross-border arbitration – and both have made rule changes recently. These modifications may make arbitration more attractive, especially in the somewhat uncertain world in which we now find ourselves.

New 2021 Rules at the ICC, after the LCIA, and before the SIAC

December 17, 2020 Elizabeth Wahl

Shortly after the entry into force of the revised Arbitration and Mediation Rules of the London Court of International Arbitration (the "LCIA") on 1 October 2020,[1] the International Chamber of Commerce (the "ICC") formally launched its amended Rules of Arbitration, 2021 (the “2021 Rules”) on 1 December 2020. This new version will enter into force on 1 January 2021 and apply to cases registered from this date. These changes have arisen in a very particular context and aim to align the ICC rules with current trends in arbitration and ICC practice (notably its Note to Parties and Arbitral Tribunals on the Conduct of the Arbitration[2]), as well as clarify the interpretation of certain already-existing rules.