The Linklaters Podcast

Episode 4: The Single Rulebook Challenge: Navigating the new EU AML regime
In this episode, Stefaan Loosveld and Andreas Dehio examine one of the most revolutionary features of the new EU anti-money laundering framework: the single rulebook under the directly applicable AML Regulation (AMLR). They discuss how the move from national regimes to a uniform EU rulebook will reshape customer due diligence and affect long-standing national practices and interpretations, requiring firms to reassess the compliance of their policies and procedures with the new rules. The conversation also highlights key steps for impact and gap analysis ahead of the 10 July 2027 application date.

Listen to all the episodes in the series on our dedicated webpage.

Episode 1: Understanding surplus: legal parameters and trustee duties
Speakers: Phil Goss and Alasdair Smith  -  Linklaters
Daniel Barlow and Sally Minchella - Law Debenture

In this podcast, Linklaters' Partners Phil Goss and Alasdair Smith are joined by Law Debenture's Trustee Directors Daniel Barlow and Sally Minchella to discuss the legal parameters around pension scheme surplus and how these shape trustee duties.

Episode 2: Surplus in practice: negotiations, benefits and case studies
Speakers: Phil Goss and Alasdair Smith  -  Linklaters
Daniel Barlow and Sally Minchella - Law Debenture

In this podcast, Linklaters' Partners Phil Goss and Alasdair Smith are joined by Law Debenture's Trustee Directors Daniel Barlow and Sally Minchella to discuss how surplus plays out in practice through trustee–sponsor negotiations, benefit improvement discussions and case studies.

Antitrust & Foreign Investment Legal Outlook 2026
As we enter 2026, regulators are juggling competing demands: boosting economic growth while protecting national security and innovation.

The result? A tale of two speeds for dealmakers—fast-track approvals for straightforward transactions, but intensified scrutiny for anything touching AI, defence, or critical technologies.

Meanwhile, antitrust enforcement is ramping up globally, with record fines and AI-powered investigations changing how authorities catch violations. But enforcement is proving to be strategic, as authorities zero in on sectors which send the strongest political message. 

Our Legal Outlook 2026 report distils key themes and changes you can expect, with key tips from our global experts for the year ahead.

Episode 3: Introducing the Employment Rights Act 2025
Speakers: Nick Marshall, Avani Agarwal, Hayley Tennant

A major shift in the enforcement of employment rights is on its way with the creation of the new Fair Work Agency. 

In our podcast, we unpick the key aspects of the new body, including:

Employment rights and protections within its remit. Not only will the Fair Work Agency assume powers from HMRC, the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate, and the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority, but it will also take on additional responsibilities.

Its investigatory and enforcement powers. These are broad and include the right to enter business premises and obtain documents, and significantly, to bring employment tribunal proceedings on behalf of workers who have chosen not to.

Preparatory steps employers can take ahead of its launch in April 2026.