In this international episode, Chaz Churchwell interviews Daniele D’Alvia, Director of the Banking and Finance Law Institute at Queen Mary University of London and founder of SPACs Consultancy.

Daniele offers a global perspective on SPACs, examining the boom and bust cycle of 2020–2022 and what it revealed about governance, sponsor incentives, valuation discipline, and investor confidence.

Key discussion points include:

• Why redemptions are a vote of confidence
• The role of governance in preventing litigation
• How sponsor promotes should align with value creation
• The structural evolution of SPAC regulation in the U.S.
• Why cultural alignment between SPAC and target is critical
• How crypto, stablecoins, and financial innovation are influencing the next phase of SPACs

Daniele explains that SPACs are not inherently flawed. They are contractual instruments that reward discipline and punish overpromising.

For private companies evaluating a DESPAC, this episode provides clarity on how to approach valuation, governance, sponsor selection, and long-term public-market readiness.

If you want to understand SPACs beyond headlines and hype, this conversation delivers both academic depth and practical insight.

THE DESPAC PODCAST STANDARD LEGAL DISCLAIMER

The DESPAC Podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Smooth Stone Capital, its affiliates, or any sponsoring organization.

Nothing in this podcast should be interpreted as legal advice, investment advice, tax advice, or a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Discussions may reference SPACs, DESPAC transactions, securities regulations, or public-company readiness frameworks. These conversations are educational in nature and should not be relied upon when making financial or strategic decisions.

Listeners should consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed in this podcast. Any examples or scenarios mentioned are illustrative and may not reflect current market conditions or regulatory requirements.

Participation by a guest does not constitute an endorsement of any company, strategy, product, or service. References to specific firms or individuals are for context only.

Smooth Stone Capital and the DESPAC Podcast disclaim all liability arising from the use of or reliance on the information presented.