Linklaters has confirmed its reputation as an emerging global M&A leader as new research shows the City giant beating Wall Street’s elite to rank as top firm in the first half of 2002.

Thomson Financial’s worldwide deal rankings show the London firm as the clear leader, acting on 172 announced deals with a combined value of $114bn (£162bn), against $68.2bn (£96bn) for its closest rival, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom.