Case Studies
Stonebridge was founded on the principle that our success should be measured
not just by the quality of our advice but also by our ability to help
achieve concrete and timely results. Our case studies highlight some
of our recent successes.
Government Relations
Problem
Our client, a large U.S. association sought to engage Chinas senior leadership on financial sector reform by hosting a high-level conference in-country. However, the association had a limited relationship with stakeholders in China and lacked the capacity to organize a conference in China.
Strategy
Stonebridge determined that it would be critical to secure the right local partner to co-host event, both to ensure balanced participation from relevant Ministries and organizations and gain press attention.
Execution
Stonebridge identified and secured a strong local partner and was able to gain support of the two main industry regulators and the major industry association in-country. Stonebridge identified and secured high-level speakers from both the U.S. and China, including key Chinese minister and the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, resulting in international media attention. Stonebridge also coordinated the logistics and public relations aspects associated with hosting a conference in China.
Result
More than 600 people attended the successful two-day conference, and the event continues to be hailed by the Chinese as one of the most valuable discussions to date on the financial services sector.
Back to Top^
Investment Assistance
Problem
Our client, a global 100 metals manufacturer sought the acquisition of two strategic fabricating facilities in Russia. However, the timing of the deal was sensitive, as the first major Western acquisition post-Yukos during an election year. Further, there was deep-rooted opposition from the influential Russian scientific community.
Strategy
Beyond national politics, Stonebridge understood the fact that the opposition of the Russian scientific community was a key risk factor. Stonebridge developed a strategic plan for the client, which included specific tactics and messages for company executives to use in negotiations with non-governmental stakeholders and government officials at the national and regional level.
Execution
Stonebridge facilitated the client’s efforts with key Moscow players and the Russian regional Governor, and initiated side discussions with non-governmental stakeholders to neutralize opposition to the deal.
Result
After implementing the Stonebridge strategy, the client successfully completed the $200M acquisition with broad Russian stakeholder support. In the process, the client improved its regional and local profile, as it began the sensitive task of taking over daily operations at the plants.
Back to Top^
Regulatory Strategy
Problem
Our client, a major U.S. chemical company was facing regulatory problems in the European Union. One of its products was threatened with a European Union regulation which could have prohibited use of the product. Time was of the essence. The longer the regulatory review process took, the less attractive its product would be to buyers in other markets, as the process dragged on. The company risked losing customers regardless of the result.
Strategy
Considering the public nature and time-sensitivity of this regulatory issue, Stonebridge determined that a multi-faceted approach through public, private and government channels would be the most effective. Stonebridge also determined that increased support from strategic allies would be necessary. There was no substitute for the product and large users needed to know their formulas were at risk.
Execution
Stonebridge experts on the ground in Washington worked on strengthening industry and key constituent support in the U.S. and in EU member states. Stonebridge also immediately pressed forward to coordinate with the client the development of an overall industry strategy together with white papers outlining the products usefulness and safety. Most significantly, Stonebridge immediately sought to better understand the Commissions position, to put forward the clients position and to begin to explore possible resolutions of the problem.
Result
After more than a year of hard work, working in close coordination with the client, Stonebridge played an integral role in helping the client reach an acceptable resolution with the European Commission and its export safety and environment review committees. The product remains on the market today.
Back to Top^
Dispute Resolution
Problem
Our client, a Fortune 100 manufacturing conglomerate and principal supplier to an ailing, but high-profile Brazilian transportation company sought payment of significant arrears. However, by taking action on the arrears, the client would likely trigger the insolvency of its Brazilian business partner, in turn exacerbating financial losses and creating a publicity nightmare. The client’s objective was a solution that would result in payment of arrears without negative impact to other company interests in Brazil.
Strategy
Stonebridge determined that a “quiet” campaign across Brazilian public and private sector leadership to build support for a restructured payment plan would be more effective than direct action.
Execution
The client developed a workable restructuring plan that would address the outstanding arrears. Stonebridge then initiated direct discussions with the troubled business partner’s CEO, to ensure he was fully aware of the consequences of inaction. Further, Stonebridge initiated dialogue with Brazilian President’s Chief of Staff, Trade and Defense Ministers, as well as other stakeholders. With each constituency, Stonebridge advocated on behalf of the client, making the case for the client’s restructuring proposal.
Result
Contracts between the client and its Brazilian business partner were revised in a manner that satisfied both. As a result, the client’s financial exposure was reduced significantly, without negative repercussions to its overall position in Brazil.
Back to Top^
To learn more about our case studies, consult us.
Email: info@stonebridge-international.com
Back to Top^
About | Services
| Expertise | Publications
| News | Partners
|
