FIVELEX Studio Legale e Tributario > Milan, Italy > Firm Profile

FIVELEX Studio Legale e Tributario
VIA DEGLI OMENONI 2
20121 MILAN
Italy

Italy > Banking and finance: Bank regulatory Tier 2

Particularly focused on private banking services, FIVELEX Studio Legale e Tributario's Milan team advises on the regulatory aspects of banks’ and intermediaries’ corporate governance, investment and banking services, and the issue of banking and finance products. The group is co-led by Francesco Di Carlo, who provides non-contentious assistance to banks, investment and asset management companies, private funds, insurance companies, trust entities and listed companies; and Edoardo Guffanti, an expert in market abuse, internal control systems and corporate governance. Other key figures are Flavio Acerbi, Debora Gobbo and Camilla Fornasaro.

Practice head(s):

Francesco Di Carlo; Edoardo Guffanti

Testimonials

‘Great experience and competence in the banking and financial sector, including from a supervisory perspective.‘

‘Empathy, availability, and the ability to find solutions.‘

Key clients

Assicurazioni Generali Group

Banca Generali Group

Banca Mediolanum S.p.A.

Banca Sella S.p.A.

Bank of China (Italian branch)

Cassa Lombarda S.p.A.

Clessidra Group

Corner Banca SA

Credem Group

Edmond de Rothshild

EFG Bank Group

LGT Bank Ltd.

Illimity bank S.p.A.

Julius Bear Group

Lloyds Banking Group

PKB Privatbank Group

Banco BPM S.p.A.

Intesa SANPAOLO S.p.A.

BPER Banca S.p.A.

Azimut libera impresa SGR S.p.A.

Work highlights

  • Assisted Generali Investments Holding with a project aimed at creating a market-leading fund manager focused on sustainable infrastructure equity private investments.
  • Assisted Angel Capital Management with the drafting and negotiation of the terms and conditions of a financing structure.
  • Assisted Banco di Credito Azzoaglio with issuing an AT1 bond, dedicated to professional investors in a recapitalisation project, and structured according to new requirements under Directive 2019/879/EU (BRRD II).

Italy > Investment funds Tier 2

FIVELEX Studio Legale e Tributario‘s finance, banking and insurance department has significant expertise in financial regulatory matters, as well as capital markets and M&A transactions. The team also assists with the structuring and implementation of collective investment management schemes, along with the establishment of units in Italian and foreign funds, Francesco Di Carlo 'demonstrates a remarkable ability to think outside the box'; Francesco Mantegazza is a domestic and international taxation specialist; Edoardo Guffanti acts for banks, and investment, asset management and insurance companies; and Flavio Acerbi 'has outstanding knowledge'.

Practice head(s):

Francesco Di Carlo; Edoardo Guffanti; Francesco Mantegazza

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Exceptional expertise in investment funds, deep understanding of regulations, and creative problem-solving consistently set them apart.‘

‘Its proficiency in navigating the complexities of investment fund regulations is invaluable.‘

‘They possess an in-depth knowledge of the ever-evolving regulatory landscape, ensuring that investments are always compliant and optimised for success.‘

‘Outstanding professional ethics, efficiency and kindness are the qualities that always make them clients’ preferred choices.‘

‘Francesco Di Carlo – what truly distinguishes him is his creativity when it comes to innovative solutions. When faced with unique challenges or opportunities in the investment fund arena, he consistently demonstrates a remarkable ability to think outside the box.‘

‘Francesco Mantegazza and his team are unique professionals, who always make themselves available for any queries and any explanations, even if not strictly related to the agreed mandate.‘

‘Francesco Mantegazza is a fantastic professional.‘

‘Flavio Acerbi has outstanding knowledge, is always available, and very responsive.‘

Key clients

Assicurazioni Generali Group

Alkimis SGR S.p.A.

Clessidra Group

Consultinvest Group

Vontobel Group

Ersel Group

Kairos Group (in particular, Kairos Partners SGR)

BNP Paribas REIM SGR S.p.A.

PGIM Limited (prudential financial group)

Milano Investment Partners SGR S.p.A.

Greenstone SICAF S.P.A.

Real Step SICAF SGR S.p.A.

Insec Equity Partners SGR S.p.A.

Xenon AIFM S.A.

Endeka SGR S.p.A.

Freo Investment Managers S.à r.l.

Kryalos SGR S.p.A.

KERVIS SGR S.p.A.

SAVILLS IM SGR S.p.A.

Primonial REIM SGR S.p.A.

Castello SGR S.p.A.

Work highlights

  • Assisted Generali Investments Holding with a complex project aimed at creating a fund manager that is focused on sustainable infrastructure investments.
  • Assisted RealStep SICAF with the setting up of Compartment 4, which is dedicated to development and income-generating management investments in real estate complexes.

Italy > Dispute resolution Tier 3

FIVELEX Studio Legale e Tributario is frequently entrusted by domestic and international companies and represents clients engaged in a host of industries. It has recently noted an uptick in instructions related to sport and energy disputes. Alfredo Craca, who is an experienced counsel and arbitrator, leads the practice alongside Claudio Tatozzi and Vittorio Pisapia. Carlotta Vercesi is noted for corporate, commercial and civil disputes.

Practice head(s):

Alfredo Craca; Claudio Tatozzi; Vittorio Pisapia

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘They are always up to date on new regulation.’

‘Serious, prepared, close to the customer.’

‘A strong, dedicated team.’

‘Alfredo Craca is an excellent litigator.’

Key clients

Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena S.p.A.

Banca Profilo S.p.A.

Elliott Advisors UK Limited

Tamburi Investment Management S.p.A.

Kairos Investment Management S.p.A.

Valtur S.p.A.

SC Aetas Holding Pte. Ltd.

AC Milan S.p.A.

Eataly S.p.A.

Italy > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 4

FIVELEX Studio Legale e Tributario’s Milan team fields experts in M&A transactions, particularly in relation to industrial and commercial mid-cap companies. The principal figures are ‘excellent lawyer’ Alfredo Craca; extraordinary transaction specialist Francesco Di Carlo; and Claudio Tatozzi, who focuses on corporate law, financial market legislation and bankruptcy law.

Practice head(s):

Alfredo Craca; Francesco Di Carlo; Claudio Tatozzi

Other key lawyers:

Carlo Sbocchelli; Flavio Acerbi; Lea Lidia Lavitola

Testimonials

‘Their exceptional ability to propose intriguing transactions consistently sets the stage for positive outcomes in the field of M&A. Each experience is nothing short of outstanding.‘

‘Their ability to identify and propose unique and compelling M&A opportunities has been instrumental in clients’ growth and success.‘

‘What truly distinguishes them is their knack for identifying synergistic opportunities that others might overlook. They possess an impressive ability to see the bigger picture, spotting connections and potential synergies that result in mutually beneficial transactions.‘

‘Their creative approach to M&A not only expands clients’ business portfolios, but also adds significant value to clients’ bottom lines.’

‘Francesco Di Carlo consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that deals come to fruition with positive outcomes.’

‘Francesco Di Carlo’s strategic planning, attention to detail and meticulous execution play a pivotal role in M&A successes. He always takes the time to understand clients’ objectives, tailor their proposals accordingly, and provide invaluable guidance throughout the entire process.’

‘Working with Francesco Di Carlo is not just a business transaction, it is a partnership built on trust and collaboration; and his team’s professionalism, dedication and commitment to achieving favourable results for their clients are truly commendable.’

‘Alfredo Craca is an excellent lawyer – capable of anticipating issues while keeping a cool head in complex situations.’

Key clients

Assicurazioni Generali Group

Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited

A. C. Milan S.p.A.

Tamburi Investment Partners S.p.A.

Eataly S.p.A. and Eataly Real Estate S.r.l.

Banca Generali Group

Beyond Investment S.p.A.

Samhita S.r.l.

Angel Capital Management S.p.A.

Asset Italia S.p.A.

Tip-Pre IPO S.p.A.

Azimut Libera Impresa SGR

Venchi S.p.A.

Webuild S.p.A.

Virgin Fibra s.r.l.

Work highlights

  • Assisted Rossoneri Sport Investment Luxembourg (indirectly controlled by the Elliott Funds) with the sale of approximately 99.93% of the share capital of A. C. Milan.
  • Assisted Generali Investments Holding with a project aimed at creating a market-leading fund manager focused on sustainable infrastructure investments.
  • Assisting the shareholders of Eataly, in relation to the entry of an investment company of Investindustrial VII L.P.

Italy > Tax Tier 4

Key tax areas for FIVELEX Studio Legale e Tributario include M&A, private equity and business reorganisations. The team also advises on corporate, group, real estate, and financial transaction-related tax, along with private client taxation, transfer pricing, VAT and tax litigation. Francesco Mantegazza, Fabio Oneglia and Gianluca Pozzi co-head the group.

Practice head(s):

Francesco Mantegazza; Fabio Oneglia; Gianluca Pozzi

Testimonials

‘Outstanding professional ethics, efficiency and kindness are the qualities that always make them a preferred choice.’

‘Strong experience in tax due diligence and the tax structuring of real estate deals.’

‘The best legal tax team for companies’ real estate due diligence and transactions.’

‘The team is concise and effective, with high-quality legal advice.’

‘Always available and competent. Good negotiation skills.’

‘Francesco Mantegazza is one of the best tax advisers in Italy. Excellent track record and expertise in real estate tax structuring and due diligence.’

‘Francesco Mantegazza and his team are unique professionals who always make themselves available for any queries and any explanations, even if not strictly related to the commissioned mandate.’

‘Fabio Oneglia – really strong capabilities and expertise.’

Key clients

AEW

Ardian

Bain Capital Credit

Barings

BNP Paribas REIM

Blackstone

BPER

CarVal Investors

Castello SGR

Colliers Global Investors

DeA Capital

HIG

Invesco

InvestiRE SGR

JP Morgan Asset Management

Kervis SGR

Kryalos SGR

LCN Capital Partners

Primonial REIM

Reale Immobili

Savills IM SGR

Work highlights

  • Assisted a fund (advised by JP Morgan Asset Management) with the sale of 100% of the units of Sericon Investment Fund – Reserved Alternative Real Estate Investment Fund.
  • Advised Blackstone on the sale (by funds underwritten by the same) of a portfolio of properties (managed by Kryalos SGR) to the joint venture between Boreal IM and Cadillac Fairview/Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan.
  • Advised Ardian on the acquisition of a property in Milan with residential use.

Italy > Banking and finance: Borrower side

FIVELEX Studio Legale e Tributario's banking and finance department is led by former BonelliErede partner Mara Fittipaldi, who focuses on general lending, real estate finance, and leverage and acquisition financing.

Firm overview: Fivelex, founded in 2014 and composed by partners of recognised expertise, good reputation and from the same generation, is based in Milan. Thanks to the consolidated experience gained over the years by its partners and the relevant teams of professionals and to a business model which values the multidisciplinary skills of the different partners and their cooperation-based approach, it is focused on selected areas of practice where it is recognised as a leading firm in the legal and tax assistance to banks, financial intermediaries, asset management companies, insurance companies, listed issuers and corporate and private clients. Fivelex stands out from other Italian law and tax firms due to its ability to offer high-quality, efficient and non-standardised legal and tax assistance, with an eye to clients’ specific targets and needs.

Main practice areas
Corporate services

  • Business and corporate
  • Mergers and acquisitions
  • Corporate finance
  • Private equity and financing
  • Debt restructuring and insolvency proceedings
  • Corporate liability issues

Dispute resolution and arbitration

  • Bankrupt and insolvency litigation
  • Banking litigation and financial litigation
  • Company and civil litigation
  • Contract litigation
  • Real estate litigation
  • Arbitration

Banking, finance and insurance

  • Investment and banking services
  • Financial and banking products
  • Funds and private banking
  • Insurance companies and products
  • Regulation of listed issuers
  • Market abuse
  • Anti-money-laundering

Tax practices

  • M&A, private equity and business reorganisations
  • Corporate and group taxation
  • Real estate taxation
  • Taxation of financial transactions and financial instruments
  • Taxation of private clients
  • Transfer pricing
  • Tax litigation
  • VAT
  • Corporate controls

Corporate services: Advisory on corporate reorganisations and M&A, private equity and venture capital transactions, ‘tailoring’ and implementation of equity transaction, business reorganisations and incentive plans for directors and managers, business arrangements and other contracts, corporate financing, syndicated loans, real estate loans, distressed debt restructuring and renegotiation, listing process and IPOs, organisational and management models and procedures in accordance to legislative decree 231/2001 and related matters, corporate governance and issues related to rules for listed companies.

Dispute resolution and arbitration activities: Assistance before any court or any jurisdiction authority, including the Italian Supreme Court (Corte di Cassazione), on company and business law matters related to the liability of members of corporate bodies, the sale of corporate interests and the performance of shareholder’s agreements, litigation concerning corporate and business agreements, insolvency litigation, penalty proceedings initiated by Regulatory Authorities either in the administrative of judicial stage, real estate litigation in relation to the purchase and finance of real estate, lease/sale of business divisions or in contract litigation, listed companies corporate governance issues and damages claims.

Banking, financial and insurance advisory services: Advisory on set up and authorisation of supervised entities, M&A and reorganisation of supervised entities both on domestic and cross border basis, funds set up, authorisations, mergers, reorganisations and offering, provision of banking, investment, insurance and other supervised services, cross border provision of services and offering of financial products, issues related to the supervisory activity carried out by Regulatory Authorities, including assistance in relation to contestations and fines imposed by such Authorities, private banking and wealth management issues, financing and market abuse issues, including buy-back and price-stabilisation transactions and other issues related to listed companies rules.

Private clients: Advisory to high net worth individuals on matters such as asset protection, business succession plans and reorganisations, asset governance and other tailor-made services.

Insolvency and restructuring; Advisory in all matters relating to restructuring, bankruptcy law and insolvency more generally, with regard to: debt restructuring agreements,  certified turnaround plans pursuant to Art. 67 d) of the Bankruptcy Law, compositions with creditors, in liquidation and on a going concern basis;  distressed M&A transactions (demergers, contributions, acquisitions and disposals of equity interests, companies, business units and other assets), transfer of individual or portfolios of non-performing loans.

Tax practices
M&A and private equity: Tax advice on M&A, on both a domestic and cross-border basis, to groups, institutional investors and private equity funds.

Corporate and group taxation: Advisory in all recurring and non-recurring corporate tax matters to groups, national and multinational, with respect to domestic, international and EU tax law, inclusive of assistance in all rulings to the tax Authorities.

Real estate taxation: Specialised tax advice on real estate taxation to institutional investors, including Italian and pan-European investment funds, as well as to corporate and individual investors.

Taxation of financial transactions and financial instruments: Advisory on tax aspects of capital markets transactions on equity and debt instruments, financing, securitisations and structured finance transactions.

Taxation of private clients: Advisory to private clients on tax implications relating to the management, protection and transfer of estates.

Transfer pricing: Advisory on transfer pricing, including methodology, benchmarking, TP files and dealing with the tax Authorities.

Tax litigation: Assistance to clients in dealing with the tax Authorities for tax audits, pre-litigation procedures and before tax courts.

VAT: Advisory on VAT issues relating to domestic and cross-border transactions, supply chain, M&A, financial and real estate.

Corporate controls: Assistance on corporate controls, including those by non-executive or independent directors, statutory auditors and supervisory bodies according to legislative decree 231/2001.

Department Name Email Telephone
Corporate; Dispute Resolution and Arbitration Alfredo Craca a.craca@5lex.it
Corporate; Banking, Finance and Insurance Francesco Di Carlo f.dicarlo@5lex.it
Corporate; Banking, Finance and Insurance Edoardo Guffanti e.guffanti@5lex.it
Tax Francesco Mantegazza f.mantegazza@5lex.it
Tax Fabio Oneglia f.oneglia@5lex.it
Dispute Resolution and Arbitration Vittorio Pisapia v.pisapia@5lex.it
Corporate; Dispute Resolution and Arbitration Claudio Tatozzi c.tatozzi@5lex.it
Corporate; Banking, Finance and Insurance Mara Fittipaldi m.fittipaldi@5lex.it
Tax Gianluca Pozzi g.pozzi@5lex.it
Corporate; Banking, Finance and Insurance Flavio Acerbi f.acerbi@5lex.it
Corporate; Dispute Resolution and Arbitration Carlo Sbocchelli c.sbocchelli@5lex.it
Tax Massimo Cremona m.cremona@5lex.it
Photo Name Position Profile
Flavio Acerbi photo Flavio Acerbi Salary partner.
Alfredo Craca photo Alfredo Craca Equity partner and co-managing partner
Massimo Cremona photo Massimo Cremona Of counsel.
Francesco Di Carlo photo Francesco Di Carlo Equity partner and co-managing partner.
Mara Fittipaldi photo Mara Fittipaldi Equity partner.
Edoardo Guffanti photo Edoardo Guffanti Equity partner.
Francesco Mantegazza photo Francesco Mantegazza Equity partner and co-managing partner.
Fabio Oneglia photo Fabio Oneglia Equity partner and co-managing partner.
Vittorio Pisapia photo Vittorio Pisapia Equity partner.
Carlo Sbocchelli photo Carlo Sbocchelli Salary partner.
Claudio Tatozzi photo Claudio Tatozzi Equity partner.
Number of partners : 11
Number of lawyers : 46
Italian
English
French
German
Spanish
Contact : Alfredo Craca
Contact : Francesco Di Carlo
Contact : Francesco Mantegazza
Contact : Fabio Oneglia