Jan. 2, 2026

The Key Differences Between European and US SPACs

In this episode of The SPAC Podcast, co-hosts Michael Blankenship and Joshua Wilson speak with Dr. Daniele D’Alvia, Lecturer in Banking and Finance Law at Queen Mary University of London and Deputy Director of the Institute of Banking and Finance Law. Dr. D’Alvia offers a cross-border perspective on the evolving SPAC landscape—comparing U.S. and European markets.

Dr. D’Alvia explains how SPAC scalability in the U.S. is supported by a more cohesive regulatory framework and a mature investment banking ecosystem. In contrast, European SPACs are more jurisdiction-bound, often facing structural challenges due to limited familiarity with the product. He notes that Amsterdam's Euronext exchange offers the closest match to U.S.-style SPAC frameworks, with similar features such as escrow accounts and redemption rights.

This episode highlights the geopolitical and institutional differences impacting global SPAC formation and execution—and offers practical insights for legal advisors, sponsors, and market participants navigating cross-border transactions.

🎙️ Guest: Dr. Daniele D’Alvia
— Lecturer in Banking & Finance Law at Queen Mary University of London
— Deputy Director, Institute of Banking and Finance Law
— Corporate Finance Lawyer specialized in SPACs and capital markets innovation
🔗 Website: www.qmul.ac.uk/law/people/academic-staff/items/dalvia.html
🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-avv-daniele-d-alvia-182b1324/

🎧 Hosted by:
Michael Blankenship — Partner, Winston & Strawn LLP
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/

Joshua Wilson — Co-Host & Executive Producer, The SPAC Podcast
 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joshuabrucewilson/

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#SPACs #CapitalMarkets #CrossBorderDeals #EuropeanSPACs #InvestorEducation

 

Disclaimers:

The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the guest are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The SPAC Podcast, its hosts, or affiliated organizations. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice.

Michael J. Blankenship is a licensed attorney and is a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP. Joshua Wilson is a licensed Florida real estate broker and holds FINRA Series 79 and Series 63 licensure. The content of this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or compliance advice. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any regulatory agency, law firm, employer, or organization.

Listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal counsel, compliance professionals, or financial advisors to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations, including those enforced by the SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory bodies. This podcast does not constitute a solicitation, offer, or recommendation of any financial products, securities transactions, or legal services.

Let’s Connect on LinkedIn:

👉 Michael J. Blankenship - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/

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Daniele D'Alvia Profile Photo

Lecturer in Banking and Finance Law at QMUL CCLS and Deputy Director of the Institute of Banking and Finance Law

Dr Daniele D’Alvia is a Lecturer in Banking and Finance Law at Queen Mary University of London (Centre for Commercial Law Studies) and Deputy Director of its Institute of Banking and Finance Law. He is an Associate Researcher of the European Banking Institute in Frankfurt. He is also a corporate finance lawyer specialised on SPACs and capital markets' innovations.