Christopher Barker

Chris is a beacon in the realm of capital markets and securities, guiding a diverse clientele through the intricacies of regulatory landscapes and transactional complexities. With a client roster that spans dealers, crypto platforms, and issuers of structured products, Chris excels in making the new and complex accessible and actionable. His knack for pioneering products and business models has marked him as a go-to advisor for those looking to innovate within the strictures of market regulations.

His prowess isn't just theoretical; Chris's track record includes spearheading transactions that have set benchmarks in the financial industry. Among his notable accomplishments is advising CIBC on the Canadian Depositary Receipts launch, a groundbreaking move that opened doors for Canadian investors to engage with foreign stocks through hedged fractional investments. His influence extends to the real estate sector, where he played a pivotal role in Flagship Communities REIT's US$107-million debut on the Toronto Stock Exchange and guided Granite REIT through significant equity and debt offerings, including a trailblazing green bond issue.

Chris's contribution to the financial landscape is not limited to capital markets. He has been instrumental in major mergers and acquisitions, including the strategic reorganization of Lundin Petroleum AB, which involved a cross-border spin-off creating a new public entity with a significant market capitalization. His expertise facilitated Element Financial Corporation's expansive acquisitions, underscoring his adeptness at navigating complex financial transactions across borders.

In addition to his transactional work, Chris is a thought leader, co-authoring numerous bulletins that shed light on the evolving regulatory framework surrounding derivatives, cryptocurrencies, and more. His insights have informed industry stakeholders about the Canadian Securities Administrators' stance on crypto trading platforms, derivatives reporting, and marketing guidelines for crypto assets, proving his commitment to clarity and compliance in a rapidly changing sector.

Chris's educational background, with distinctions from the University of Toronto and Trinity College Dublin, complements his professional achievements. Since joining the Ontario Bar in 2013, his career has been a testament to his ability to blend academic excellence with practical expertise, making significant contributions to capital markets and securities law.