Michael G. Wu - Winston & Strawn LLP

For entrepreneurs, innovators, and seasoned financial professionals throughout California, the world of asset management, particularly in private investment and venture capital funds, is constantly evolving. Establishing and growing successful funds requires not only a keen business sense but also sophisticated legal guidance to navigate complex regulations, attract investors, and structure deals effectively. This is precisely where Michael G. Wu, a distinguished partner at the global law firm Winston & Strawn LLP, offers invaluable expertise from his San Francisco office.

Michael G. Wu is a highly sought-after attorney who advises a wide variety of clients in the asset management industry. His clientele ranges from emerging fund managers launching their very first private investment funds to well-established fund managers with multiple funds and billions of dollars under management. This broad spectrum of experience means that he understands the unique challenges and opportunities faced by firms at every stage of their growth in California's dynamic financial ecosystem.

His practice is particularly instrumental in helping fund managers with the intricate process of forming and organizing both U.S. and offshore private investment funds. This includes related co-investment vehicles, parallel funds, and feeder funds, all meticulously structured to address crucial business, tax, and regulatory considerations. For Californians looking to establish or expand their investment vehicles, Michael’s expertise in utilizing various structuring tools like blockers, splitters, intermediary holding companies, and alternative investment vehicles is a significant advantage.

What truly sets Michael apart for clients in California is his deep understanding of fundraising best practices and legal requirements. He is dedicated to positioning his clients to achieve their fundraising goals, working collaboratively with both fund managers and institutional investors. His years of experience negotiating and drafting complex agreements, such as side letters, anchor investment agreements, fund-of-one documents, and separately managed account agreements, are invaluable. He is acutely familiar with applicable market trends and standards, ensuring that clients benefit from current industry insights. This comprehensive approach, from fund formation to ongoing regulatory compliance and investor relations, makes Michael G. Wu a critical partner for anyone in the Golden State looking to thrive in the competitive asset management sector.

Michael G. Wu practices from the San Francisco office of Winston & Strawn LLP, a global law firm strategically positioned within the city's vibrant Financial District. The office is located at 101 California St, 21st Floor, San Francisco, CA 94111, USA. This prominent address ensures excellent accessibility for clients throughout the Bay Area and beyond, making it convenient for those managing or investing in private funds.

For individuals relying on public transportation, the 101 California Street building is very accessible. It is just a short walk from major BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) and Muni Metro stations, including Embarcadero and Montgomery Street stations. These transit hubs offer extensive connections throughout San Francisco, the East Bay, and even the Peninsula, providing a seamless commute for clients from various regions. Numerous bus lines also service the immediate vicinity, offering additional options for reaching the firm.

Clients who choose to drive will find ample parking garages and lots within a short distance of the building. While parking in downtown San Francisco can sometimes be challenging, the concentration of parking facilities in the Financial District helps to mitigate this. The building itself is an iconic and prestigious landmark, projecting a strong sense of professionalism and stability. The 21st-floor location provides a sophisticated and private environment for client meetings and strategic discussions, offering impressive views of the city while ensuring a focused atmosphere. This strategic placement and accessibility underscore Winston & Strawn's commitment to efficiently serving its California clientele, positioning Michael G. Wu at a prime location to support the state's burgeoning asset management and venture capital industries.

Michael G. Wu's legal services at Winston & Strawn LLP are highly specialized, focusing on the intricate needs of clients within the asset management industry, particularly those involved with private investment funds and venture capital. His expertise spans the entire lifecycle of a fund, from initial formation to ongoing operations and investor relations.

• Fund Formation and Organization: He assists fund managers in forming and organizing various types of private investment funds, including U.S. and offshore structures, co-investment vehicles, parallel funds, and feeder funds. This involves advising on the optimal legal and tax structures.
• Fund Structuring and Regulatory Compliance: Michael helps clients structure their funds to address a myriad of business, tax, and regulatory considerations, often utilizing sophisticated tools like blockers, splitters, intermediary holding companies, carry vehicles, and alternative investment vehicles to maximize operational flexibility and minimize U.S. tax obligations. He advises on regulatory obligations under U.S. federal and state securities and other applicable laws.
• Fundraising Counsel: He counsels clients on best practices and legal requirements around fundraising, aiming to put them in the best position to achieve their fundraising goals. This includes advising on marketing rules and compliance.
• Institutional Investor Arrangements: Michael represents clients in connection with all types of arrangements with institutional investors, such as corporate venture capital firms, foundations, family offices, banks, and fund-of-funds investors. He has extensive experience negotiating and drafting side letters, anchor investment agreements, fund-of-one documents, and separately managed account agreements.
• Venture Capital Fund Practice Development: He has been instrumental in building Winston & Strawn's venture capital fund practice, assembling a dedicated team that now represents over 200 venture capital fund managers, making it one of the most active practices among major law firms. He assists venture capital fund managers with all aspects of their businesses, from fund formation to investments in portfolio companies.
• Economics Sharing Structures: He helps clients structure their businesses to allow for effective sharing of economics (i.e., carry) with advisors, scouts, and other key contributors.
• Market Trend Analysis: Michael is very familiar with applicable market trends and standards in the private investment funds sector, ensuring his advice is current and strategic.

Michael G. Wu's expertise and standing within the legal community are highlighted by several key features and recognitions, making him a distinguished choice for clients in California's financial sector.

• Instrumental in Building Leading Practice: Michael has been crucial in developing Winston & Strawn's venture capital fund practice from the ground up, leading it to become one of the most active among major law firms, representing over 200 venture capital fund managers.
• Extensive Industry Knowledge: He possesses deep knowledge and significant experience in the venture capital and broader private investment fund industries, advising clients across the asset management spectrum, from emerging to seasoned fund managers.
• Recognized Dealmaker: Michael was listed in the 2025 edition of Lawdragon's "500 Leading Dealmakers in America" in the areas of Private Investment Funds, Transactions, and Private Equity. This recognition underscores his skill and impact in structuring and closing significant financial deals.
• Collaborative Client Approach: His approach is to work collaboratively with clients and their investors to secure investments for his clients, fostering productive relationships that lead to successful outcomes.
• Comprehensive Regulatory Acumen: He provides robust advice on regulatory obligations under U.S. federal and state securities laws, ensuring clients navigate the complex legal landscape with confidence.
• Strategic Business Structuring: Michael excels at helping clients structure their businesses not only for legal compliance but also to maximize operational flexibility and optimize tax implications.
• Academic Background: He received his J.D., cum laude, from the University of Minnesota Law School, where he was the Articles Editor for the Minnesota Intellectual Property Review, demonstrating a strong foundation in legal scholarship.

As a highly specialized partner in a global law firm, Michael G. Wu at Winston & Strawn LLP provides expert legal services rather than conventional "promotions" or "special offers." The value he delivers to clients in California's asset management industry is found in his unparalleled expertise, strategic guidance, and proven ability to facilitate complex fund formations and institutional investments.

The "offer" for potential clients is access to a leading attorney who can significantly enhance their chances of successful fundraising, ensure regulatory compliance, and structure their funds for long-term growth and efficiency. His deep understanding of market trends and his collaborative approach with both clients and investors can save substantial time and resources, providing a significant competitive advantage. Businesses and individuals involved in private investment funds, particularly venture capital, are encouraged to contact Michael G. Wu directly for a confidential consultation. This initial discussion allows for a thorough assessment of specific needs and provides insight into how his specialized legal counsel can help achieve their financial objectives.

To connect with Michael G. Wu at Winston & Strawn LLP and discuss your needs related to private investment funds or venture capital, please use the following contact information:

Address: 101 California St 21st Floor, San Francisco, CA 94111, USA

Phone: (415) 591-6818

Mobile Phone: +1 415-591-6818

His team is prepared to provide the exceptional legal representation and strategic counsel you require to navigate the complex financial landscape.

For locals in California, especially those operating within the state's vibrant and competitive financial and technology sectors, Michael G. Wu at Winston & Strawn LLP is an exceptionally suitable choice for legal representation. California is a global hub for venture capital and private investment, and success in this environment hinges on robust legal structuring, compliance, and effective fundraising strategies.

Michael's deep specialization in private investment funds and venture capital, combined with his instrumental role in building Winston & Strawn's leading practice in this area, means he possesses an unparalleled understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by California-based fund managers. His expertise in navigating complex regulatory obligations, structuring funds for tax efficiency, and facilitating arrangements with institutional investors directly addresses the critical needs of the local financial community. Furthermore, his presence at a prestigious global firm like Winston & Strawn LLP in a prime San Francisco location offers the assurance of extensive resources and a broad network of legal talent. Choosing Michael G. Wu means partnering with a legal professional who is not only a recognized leader in his field but also deeply attuned to the specific dynamics of California's investment landscape, providing essential guidance for financial success.