PhD Economist · Expert Witness
Clarity, Credibility, and Insight in Economic Litigation
Senior litigators may lose sleep before high-stakes economic litigation because they lack a clear and credible economic argument and an economist who can provide evidence in a way that resonates with judges and tribunals. Hiring an expert with those skills can make all the difference and help everyone get a good night’s sleep — except for opposing counsel.
That's where Benoit d'Udekem d’Acoz comes in. With 15 years of experience assisting lawyers and testifying as an expert in various industries and a PhD in economics, he brings a wealth of knowledge, credibility, and the ability to clearly explain the intricacies of his clients’ situations. His independent reports and testimony have a track record of getting to the heart of the matter and hitting where it hurts, giving his clients an advantage in settlement negotiations and in front of tribunals or courts.
Benoit works closely with you to understand your unique challenges and develop a tailored approach that maximises your chances of success. In the world of economic litigation, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Benoit offers a keen eye, a sharp mind, and a collaborative spirit to craft a winning strategy.
Proven Impact
Played a key role in landmark cases, including the €1.3 billion Fortis settlement and Steinhoff and ARCO litigations (the latter on behalf of the Belgian State).
Contributed to significant wins in mostly confidential arbitration, court and administrative proceedings, in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands.
Navigated senior roles at Fortis and Ageas, steering through complex 100+ million-euro M&A deals.
Opened the Brussels office of a leading international economic consulting firm, and grew it to more than 10 employees to meet the needs of a growing practice.
Trusted by leading law firms to strengthen their side’s position an identify weaknesses in opponents’ arguments, supporting up to 10-figure client outcomes.
Accolades and Recognitions
Recommended Arbitration Expert Witness in Who’s Who Legal 2024.
Frequent speaker at conferences and seminars on economic and financial litigation, and previously, at academic conferences, such as the US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporations’s Annual Bank Research Conference.
Guest lecturer at the University of Geneva between 2010 and 2020 and International Air Transport Association (IATA) Instructor since 2020.
Author of academic research and a published article in a highly regarded peer-reviewed finance journal.
Credentials
PhD in Economics and Management from the Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management, ULB (Brussels, Belgium).
MBA from INSEAD (Fontainebleau, France & Singapore, Singapore).
Master’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering (ingénieur civil / burgerlijk ingenieur) from UCLouvain (Brussels Area, Belgium).
Languages
English (expert, C2, tested)
French (native, C2)
Dutch (working knowledge, C1 / B2, self-assessed)
While Benoit’s journey has led him to contribute to the academic and professional communities through published and yet-to-be-published research, his primary focus remains on delivering tangible results for his clients. His experience developing courses on airline finance and accounting, and damages estimation in arbitration and litigation has honed his ability to distill complex concepts into actionable insights.
As a trusted advisor, his comprehensive understanding of economic litigation, combined with a strategic approach and the ability to collaborate across cultural and geographic boundaries, positions him to offer you unparalleled clarity. His work not only navigates present-day complexities but also anticipates future challenges, providing his clients with a distinct advantage inside a courtroom and in the boardroom.
Benoit is a father of four. He is also a high tenor and a member of an amateur classical choir, enjoys garden design, tribal and contemporary art and baroque music, and recharges himself through Vipassana meditation, singing, and hiking.