School of Law PGR awarded silver medal in prestigious international competition
The International Insolvency Institute awarded its 2024 Prize in International Insolvency Studies, for outstanding writing, research, or analysis in the insolvency field.
Shuaihao Mi, a PhD candidate at the University of Leeds’ School of Law has been awarded the Silver Medal in the International Insolvency Studies competition for his outstanding research on the cross-border insolvency of the China Evergrande Group.
This prestigious accolade recognised Shuaihao’s research work entitled ‘China’s Lehman Brother Moment: Will Mainland China’s Courts Recognise Hong Kong High Court’s Winding-up Order Against Evergrande?’.
Shuaihao’s research focuses on one of the most debated topics in cross-border insolvency today: the insolvency of the Chinese real estate developer Evergrande. The article critically assesses the potential actions of Mainland Chinese courts towards a winding-up order issued by the Hong Kong High Court, considering the new cross-border insolvency cooperation system.
Shuaihao receiving the Silver Medal Award from the International Insolvency Institute during their 24th annual conference in Singapore
Dr Stephan Maduas, the Vice President of the International Insolvency Institute, commended the article for its clear explanation of the Chinese real estate crisis and its cross-border insolvency solutions, noting its value for researchers in the field.
Shuaihao’s journey to this achievement began serendipitously when he came across renowned Professor Emeritus in Insolvency Law, Dr Bob Wessels’, post about the III Prize in International Insolvency Studies. In his post, Dr Wessels said: “Off the top of my head, I know 3 insolvency law professors starting their career with the III Prize.”
Dr Wessels’ words inspired Shuaihao and motivated him to seek support from his supervisors, Professor Gerard McCormack and Dr Oriana Casasola, to apply for this award. Their belief in his work, along with their active support in proofreading and refining his submission, played a crucial role in his success. Oriana, herself a silver prize winner in 2022, emphasized the importance of clarity and simplicity in the presentation, given the diversity of the judging panel.
Shuaihao (second from left) stands with his supervisors (from left to right): Dr Zinian Zhang, Professor Gerard McCormack, and Dr Oriana Casasola
Reflecting on the value of professional conferences, Shuaihao recognises the influence of his colleague, Matthew Chippin. Earlier this year, Matthew embarked on a successful international tour of conferences that granted him the opportunity to connect with peers and experts in specific subject areas. Matthew’s experience inspired Shuaihao to apply to this competition.
The support and opportunities provided by the School of Law, particularly from his supervisors and Dr Zinian Zhang from the University of Glasgow, were instrumental in Shuaihao’s development as a competent researcher. He says:
Had it not been for the opportunities afforded to me by my research at the School of Law, I likely would have never been able to do this. My supervisors, Gerry, Oriana, and Zinian, helped me so much in this process. They taught me how to be a competent researcher.
Looking ahead, Shuaihao plans to delve deeper into his research topic and aims to publish his findings in the Asian Pacific Law Review. In the long term, he intends to continue focusing on the development of China’s cross-border insolvency legal regime and actively participate in international conferences.
Concluding, Shuaihao expresses: “I really enjoyed this experience, and it will be a valuable treasure in my life.”
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