Matheson has advised global insurer Aviva on its €130 million acquisition of the Irish life assurance, pensions and investment firm Friends First.

The deal, which was announced on 14 November 2017, is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to complete in the first quarter of 2018.

Tim Scanlon, partner in Matheson’s corporate and commercial team, led the Matheson team with senior associate Clair Hayes.

Mr Scanlon said: “This will be a great acquisition for Aviva and is a significant transaction for the Irish insurance market. We are very pleased to have had the opportunity to work with Aviva on it.”

The firm said the transaction builds on its strength and expertise in the sector, having advised on more cross-border Irish acquisitions in the insurance sector than any other law firm in the last three years.