Corporate and M&A in Brazil
BMA - Barbosa, Müssnich, Aragão
A 'reference in corporate law and M&A', BMA - Barbosa, Müssnich, Aragão maintains its leading position in the market. The firm is regularly advised by Brazilian and international clients - including a significant number of listed companies - in high-value deals. The team saw further expansion in 2019 with the hire of internationally focused corporate and M&A specialist Maria da Paz Tierno Lopes from Cuatrecasas. In the telecoms space, highlights included Roberto Dias Carneiro and Paulo Cezar Aragão's advice to América Móvil and its subsidiary Claro Brazil on the acquisition of NII Brazil Holdings, the indirect owner of Nextel Telecomunicações, for $905m on a cash-free and debt-free basis; the firm advised on the Brazilian legal aspects of the deal, including corporate, tax and antitrust matters. Other key practitioners include public and private M&A expert Monique Mavignier, founding partners Francisco Müssnich and Plinio Simões Barbosa, managing partner Amir Bocayuva Cunha and associate Ana Paula Reis. Luciana Marsal is also noted. In its latest promotion round, the firm promoted Carlo Rocha, Felipe Paschoalini and Igor Lima to the partnership.
Practice head(s):
Francisco Müssnich; Paulo Cezar Aragão; Plínio Barbosa; Luiz Antonio Campos
Testimonials
‘What makes the BMA team extraordinary is the ability to meet all the demands of the client with great agility and quality.‘
‘Individuals think outside the box and always come up with smart and creative solutions to the impasses presented.‘
‘The BMA office is a reference in corporate law, M&A and competitive issues. The partners Paulo Aragão, Monique Mavignier, Bárbara Rosenberg conduct all matters related to these areas in the interface with the company.‘
‘Service differentials are the readiness of the partners, the deep technical knowledge of the issues related to the areas to which they respond and the deep knowledge of the company, enabling adequate and efficient solutions to the matters entrusted.‘
‘The entire office team is well prepared, but my highlight is the lawyer Paulo Aragão.‘
Key clients
CPFL Energia
Embraer
America Movil (Claro Brasil)
Hankoe Fundo de Investimento em Participações Multiestratégia Investimento no Exterior
SulAmérica
BRK Ambiental
BR Malls
Potiguar E&P
Fazenda Futuro
Rede D’Or São Luiz
Eletropaulo
Nadir Figueiredo Indústria e Comércio
B2W – Companhia Digital
Península Participações
Olympique Lyonnais Groupe
Carrefour Comércio e Indústria
Adtalem Global Education
Aliansce Shopping Center
Vitol
Cimento Tupi
XP Investimentos
Work highlights
- Advised Aliansce Shopping Center on the merger of its business with Sonae Sierra Brasil. The new entity is called Aliansce Sonae Shopping Centers and has become – as per the merger – Brazil’s largest shopping centre manager.
- Advising Adtalem Global Education on the sale of 100% of Adtalem Brasil Holding to the Sociedade de Ensino Superior Estácio de Sá.
- Advising América Móvil (and its subsidiary Claro Brazil) on the acquisition of NII Brazil Holdings, indirect owner of 100% of Nextel Telecomunicações, from NII Holdings and AI Brazil Holdings.
- Advised Hankoe Fundo de Investimento em Participações Multiestratégia Investimento no Exterior on the sale of 100% of the shares issued by Dutch company New Steel Global (which has two subsidiaries in Brazil), to Vale.
- Provided full legal assistance to SulAmérica on the sale of its auto and P&C insurance business to Allianz for R$3bn.
Cescon, Barrieu, Flesch & Barreto Advogados
Under the leadership of founding partners Maria Cristina Cescon and Marcos Rafael Flesch, Cescon, Barrieu, Flesch & Barreto Advogados' corporate and M&A practice continues to thrive, as evidenced by the promotions of former senior associates Fernanda Montorfano Gibson, Luciana de Castro Mares Torres and Isabela Leal Coelho to partner in 2019. The department's client base - which includes a number of household name companies - has also seen recent growth, with several new clients in the manufacturing, chemicals and consumer goods sectors. The firm's capital markets expertise is another draw, and the firm stands out for its expertise in public M&A. Other partners regularly leading on the firm's key deals include Darkson Delmondes Galvão, Fernanda Bastos Buhatem, Ana Carolina Castro Reis Passos and Ronald Herscovici. Marina da Silva Prado is also recommended. Since publication, the firm has announced it's opening of an office in Toronto (Canada), as of January 2021.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The cost/benefit ratio of engaging them is tough to beat. Very efficient, smooth and knowledgeble teams. Really like to work with them, even during challenging transactions and discussions.’
‘Ana Carolina Passos is recommended.‘
Key clients
The Coca-Cola Company
Enel Brasil
Vale
Gerdau
Suzano Papel e Celulose
Warburg Pincus
Hypermarcas
Saint Goban
EDP Energias do Brasil
Unilever
Work highlights
- Provided advice to Suzano Papel e Celulose on the business and shareholders’ base merger with Fibria Celulose, in order to establish the world’s largest wood pulp producer.
- Advised Eletrobras on the auction sale of shares held in various special purpose vehicles (SPVs), selling eleven lots for an aggregate amount of approximately R$1.3bn.
- Advised Brookfield Business Partners on the acquisition of a majority stake in Ouro Verde Locação e Serviço.
- Provided advice to Whirlpool Brasil on the sale of compressors manufacturer Embraco to Nidec Corporation.
- Advised CCPR on the acquisition of Itambé from Vigor.
Demarest Advogados
'On par with US top-tier firms in responsiveness, creativity and comprehensive thinking', Demarest Advogados' corporate and M&A team balances a busy workload, with a significant proportion of its deals involving high-end M&A. It particularly stands out in the technology and life sciences sectors, where it has recently been active, and has also expanded its private equity practice. In an illustration of its presence in technology-related deals, Paulo Coelho da Rocha and Ana Carolina Botto Audi acted for REIT Digital Realty in the acquisition of Ascenty from private equity firm Great Hill Partners, and later advised the client on the formation of a joint venture with Brookfield Infrastructure. Joyl Gondim has established a strong practice in middle market deals, particularly in the healthcare and, increasingly, the education sectors. Other names to note in the sizeable team include Luciana Cossermelli Tornovsky, Thiago Barbosa Sandim, Gabriel Ricardo Kuznietz and Thiago Rodrigues Maia. Maria Lúcia de Almeida Prado e Silva retired in 2020; in January 2021, Bruna Toledo Pacheco and Daniel Caramaschi were promoted to partner.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The M&A team at Demarest is fantastic and they are on par with US top-tier firms in responsiveness, creativity and comprehensive thinking.‘
‘All team members are fully engaged and committed to the success of the matters; there is a general sense of “ownership” with regard to client issues. I consider Demarest’s team as an extension of my own.‘
‘It is a very responsive team, with deep and thorough knowledge of regulations and creative ideas for planning and finding the best ways to implement any ideas. The team leadership is also remarkable, jumping in whenever it is needed.‘
‘Paulo Coelho da Rocha leads his team to act like him, always available, trying to reach the client’s objectives, finding different alternatives for the problems we face during a process of M&A. And also, he helped us negotiating best conditions to our deal. He was fantastic!‘
‘The team leader, Ricardo Kuznietz is a very reliable partner to work with. He has the special skill to get to know the client and the industry in which it develops, giving always an accurate advice, with great creativity.‘
‘Bruna Toledo Pacheco – star junior partner. Hands-on, always available, technical. Very knowledgeable in complex M&A deals. Bruna knows how to handle international clients and help them navigating through the complexities of Brazil.‘
‘Jose Diaz and Bruna Pacheco are a team of excellent attorneys who coordinate extremely well and get deals done.‘
‘Paulo Rocha and Celso Xavier stand out as partners who know their clients’ business, embrace problems as their own, and are proactive in providing creative solutions.‘
Key clients
Softbank
7 Bridges
Ashland
DaVita
Banco Inter
JSL
Jive
GIC
Bayer
GE
Work highlights
- Assisted GE Transportation on the Brazilian aspects of its acquisition by Wabtec as part of a wider, $11.1bn global transaction.
- Advised REIT Digital Realty on the acquisition of Ascenty from Great Hill Partners for over $2bn.
- Assisted SoftBank, a new client of the firm, with two recent investments in Brazil.
- Advised Ashland International Holdings on the sale of its composites business in Brazil to Ineos Enterprises Group.
- Assisted the Cimcorp Group on the acquisition of the totality of the share capital of Resource Holding, Resource IT Chile and Resource IT Colombia.
Machado Meyer Sendacz e Opice Advogados
Well-established firm Machado Meyer Sendacz e Opice Advogados had another strong year for M&A in 2019. It is well versed in transactions that exceed the R$1bn mark. Recent examples include its advice to Petrobras on the oil and gas company's $8.6bn sale of 90% of its equity stake in TAG - Transportadora Associada de Gás; the deal represented Petrobras’ largest M&A transaction to date. Guilherme Bueno Malouf leads the department, which includes cross-border M&A expert Adriana Pallis, executive committee member Arthur Bardawil Penteado, Mauro Cesar Leschziner and Luciana Costa Engelberg, who advises clients on corporate transactions and fund formation. While the practice is primarily based in São Paulo, the firm also has considerable geographic reach through its offices in Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, Belo Horizonte and New York.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Blackstone Tactical Group
BlackRock
Duratex
Klabin
Cinépolis
XP
Itaú-Unibanco
Siemens Brasil
SoftBank
Julius Baer
Work highlights
- Advised Petrobras on the sale of 90% of its equity stake in TAG – Transportadora Associada de Gás.
- Acted for Chilean company CMPC and CMPC Melhoramentos in the acquisition of Sepac – Serrados e Pasta de Celulose.
- Advised Ardagh Group on the merger of its food and specialty metal packaging business with a producer of aluminium containers.
- Assisted BlackRock Global Energy&Power Infrastructure Funds with the first transaction ever undertaken by its Energy & Power Infrastructure division in Brazil.
- Assisted Duratex and Cerâmica Urussanga on the acquisition of all shares representing the outstanding capital of Cecrisa Revestimentos Cerâmicos.
Mattos Filho, Veiga Filho, Marrey Jr. e Quiroga Advogados
Noted for its 'very solid experience in M&A', Mattos Filho, Veiga Filho, Marrey Jr. e Quiroga Advogados has secured its position in the top echelons of the Brazilian legal market through its involvement in numerous high-profile corporate transactions over several years. Its private equity expertise is also of note, with clients including leading private equity and venture capital funds. Clients of the corporate department also benefit from the full-service firm's strengths in antitrust, capital markets and tax, among other areas. A team led by Maria Fernanda de Almeida Prado e Silva and Moacir Zilbovicius acted as Brazilian counsel to Avon on its all-share merger with Natura Cosméticos, advising on the corporate and tax structuring of the transaction, as well as the competition aspects. The firm stands out for its international reach, with corporate lawyers based in London and New York in addition to Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and, since July 2020, its new office in Campinas. Key names in the sizeable team include João Ricardo de Azevedo Ribeiro, Paula Vieira de Oliveira and Claudio Oksenberg. 2019 saw the promotions of Guilherme Woo Terra, Rodrigo Arthur Carvalho and Victor Gelli Cavalcanti to partner. Associate Rosane Carmona is recommended.
Testimonials
‘The team has a very solid experience in M&A. They have worked for us in several deals and know our group very well. The M&A team is highly skilled and responsive.’
‘It is a great team with a lot of experience in M&A deals.‘
‘Mattos Filho is a legal company that has a very good team in all areas. Our company used tax, capital markets, civil, compliance, data protection and other areas, and all performed with excellence.‘
‘Since Mattos Filho has a big office and many important clients, the lawyers are very experienced since they are exposed to several important cases.‘
‘Maria Fernanda de Almeida Prado has significant experience in this area and transmits a sense of confidence and tranquility that is very reassuring.‘
‘Francisco Almeida Prado – deep knowledge and experience in stock option plans; very efficient and top quality work.‘
Key clients
Actis Group
Advent Group
UOL
Avon Group
Cosan Indústria e Comércio
CPPIB
Goldman Sachs (Private Equity)
Fiat Automóveis
General Atlantic
Grupo Ultra
Allianz
Kroton
Louis Dreyfus
The Carlyle Group
Naspers
OLX (Bom Negócio)
Patria Investimentos Group
Raia Drogasil
Rede D’Or São Luiz
Softbank
Work highlights
- Represented Avon Group in an all-share merger transaction between Natura Cosméticos and Avon Products, which will result in the $4.1bn acquisition of Avon by Natura.
- Advised Raia Drogasil in the acquisition of 100% of the capital stock of Drogaria Onofre.
- Advised NII Holdings in the sale of Nextel Brasil’s equity interest to América Móvil (Claro).
- Advised Actis on the sale of Atlantic Energias Renováveis and its 31 subsidiaries to SHLTR I Participações.
- Acted as legal advisor to Allianz Group in the acquisition of certain auto and P&C insurance lines.
Pinheiro Neto Advogados
With 'deep knowledge across all practices', Pinheiro Neto Advogados provides a 'one-stop shop solution to its clients', which include leading companies across the healthcare and life sciences, financial services, private equity, infrastructure and transport sectors, among others. It is regularly engaged by domestic and international companies to act as Brazilian counsel on the buyer and seller side of major corporate transactions; recent highlights include its advice to Natura Cosméticos in the high-profile acquisition of Avon, where Henrique Lang and Guilherme Sampaio Monteiro led an inter-departmental team. Managing partner Alexandre Bertoldi, corporate law and wealth planning expert Pythagoras Carvalho, Vânia Marques Ribeiro and Fernando Alves Meira are key contacts. João Marcelo Gonçalves Pacheco is also recommended. Associates making a mark in the team include Camila Carvalho Gomes and Priscila Gurgel Menezes.
Testimonials
‘The team provides practical and conservative advice based on full understanding on the business background. The team is very responsive to inquiries.‘
‘Partners are highly experienced and hands on on the execution of the M&A transaction. Deep knowledge across all practices providing a one-stop shop solution to its clients. Collaborative team across the practices. Usually seeking to find solutions without increasing the client risk.‘
‘Very hands on execution and complementary knowledge. Super quality with flawless execution across the firm.‘
‘Fernando Meira, Andre Vertullo Bernini and Carlos Lima are partners that stand-out and are clear market reference on their respective practices. The three partners are extremely competent and they usually seek for creative solutions.‘
Key clients
Carrefour
Saint-Gobain do Brasil Produtos Industria e para Construção
UnitedHealth Group
Votorantim
Bain Capital
Localiza Rent a Car
Pátria Investimentos
Boeing
SoftBank
Macquarie Infrastructure
Work highlights
- Advised Sonae Sierra Brasil on its combination with Aliansce Shopping Centers, where Aliansce merged into Sonae and the combined company is now controlled by the former controlling shareholders of both companies.
- Acted for Natura Cosméticos in the acquisition of Avon by means of an all-share merger.
- Advised Port of Pecém Participations (PoPP) on an investment that allows PoPP to become a shareholder of Companhia de Desenvolvimento do Complexo Industrial e Portuário do Pecém – CIPP, a mixed capital company controlled by the State of Ceará.
- Advises CAIXA Seguridade Participações on a joint venture with CNP.
- Advised several sellers on the sale of SEPAC, in the State of Paraná, to Melhoramentos CMPC.
TozziniFreire Advogados
TozziniFreire Advogados is often engaged by well-known Brazilian and international companies in large-scale corporate transactions, particularly those with cross-border aspects. In one recent multi-jurisdictional transaction, recommended partner Francisco Eumene Machado de Oliveira Neto advised Banco Crédit Agricole Brasil on a joint venture with Banco Santander for the combination of its custody and asset management operations. The corporate and M&A department is led by Maria Elisa Gualandi Verri and Marcela Waksman Ejnisman and saw organic growth with the promotions of Fernando Silveira Carvalho and Carla do Couto Hellu Battilana to partner in February 2019; the latter advised Whirlpool on the sale of its compressor business to Nidec Corporation. Martin Miralles Pose, Luiz Renato Okumura, Mauro Guizeline and Silvia Martins de Castro Cunha Zono - who made partner in 2020 - are also key figures in the team.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘We worked with Tozzinifreire Advogados in relation to an M&A transaction which involved a subsidiary in Brazil. The firm was responsive and raised risk issues as was appropriate in a timely and diligent manner.‘
‘I worked with Luiz Renato Okumura who was responsive and provided practical and commercially appropriate advice.‘
Key clients
VF International
FEMSA
Hainan Airlines
Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB)
Votorantim
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Saab
The Blackstone Group
McCain Foods
Sinqia
Indigo Estacionamento
Marubeni
Amsted-Maxion Fundição e Equipamentos Ferroviários
Sumitomo Corporation of America
Toyota
Elis (Europe Linge Service)
Whirlpool
Decolar.com
Laboratórios Pfizer
Colgate-Palmolive Indústria e Comércio
Work highlights
- Advised UPL Corporation in connection with its acquisition of Arysta LifeScience from North American company Platform Specialty Products Corporation.
- Advised Banco Crédit Agricole Brasil on a joint venture with Banco Santander for the combination of its custody and asset management operations.
- Advised FEMSA Comercio in its agreement with Raízen Combustíveis to implement a joint venture to explore the gas station convenience store business.
- Assisted Compagnie Française D`Assurance Pour Le Commerce Extérieur (COFACE) in its acquisition of Brazilian Export Credit Insurance Company (SBCE).
- Provided assistance to SBA, an independent owner and operator of wireless communications infrastructure across North, Central and South America, in the acquisition of 100% of the quotas of São Paulo Três Locação de Torres.
Lefosse Advogados
'A great partner for corporate and M&A', Lefosse Advogados continues to handle a significant number of large transactions, with experience spanning acquisitions and sales of publicly and privately held companies, mergers, joint ventures, corporate disputes and privatisations. Laura Affonso - who made partner in April 2019 - has led on a number of the department's recent deals; in one highlight, she and Luiz Octavio Lopes advised healthcare company Notre Dame Intermédica Participações on the acquisition of Cliniplan Group, which marks the expansion of Notre Dame's operations into the south of Brazil. Mauricio Paschoal is recommended. Carlos Mello, Rodrigo Junqueira and Mirella Abe are also key members of the team.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The Lefosse team is a great partner for corporate and M&A. They are highly engaged with the company’s needs, always learning the peculiarities of the related business.‘
‘Christian, Lilian and Fabiane are always available to us with prompt answers for our questions.‘
Key clients
Marfrig
JBS
AES
Patria Investimentos
Angra Partners
Ouro Fino
Cogna (formerly known as Kroton)
Magazine Luiza
GOL
EMS
Petrobras
GIC
Barry Callebaut
Bunge
Unipar
Siguler Guff
BTG
Bracell/ Royal Golden Eagle (RGE)
Cruzeiro do Sul Educacional
DASA
Work highlights
- Advised Notre Dame Intermédica Participações in connection with the acquisition of Cliniplan Group.
- Acted as counsel for Bunge in connection with the formation of a joint venture with BP to combine the two companies’ sugar and ethanol operations in Brazil, resulting in the creation of BP Bunge Bioenergia.
- Acted as counsel for Marfrig Global Foods in connection with the acquisition of 91.89% of the total capital of Quickfood, an Argentine subsidiary of BRF.
- Acted as counsel to Novastar Investment, an affiliate of GIC Special Investments, in connection with a fourth investment round into Smarfit Escola de Ginástica e Dança.
- Advised Brenntag Química Brasil on the acquisition of 100% of the shares issued by Quimisa, and indirectly, 100% of Quimilog Transportes e Logística.
Lobo de Rizzo Advogados
Highlighted for the 'constant presence of senior partners' on deals, Lobo de Rizzo Advogados has an active corporate and M&A practice, with notable experience in high-end and mid-market transactions. It particularly stands out for M&A in the education sector, where it has an 'unparalleled track record'. Founding partner Valdo Cestari de Rizzo draws on over 30 years of experience; Paula Magalhães focuses her practice on corporate law and regulation, with an emphasis on listed companies; and Ana Paula Miguel advises on infrastructure deals and corporate structuring, in addition to M&A. Rodrigo Millar de Castro Guerra and Otávio Lucas Solano Valério are also noted; and Guilherme Menegassi and Marcelo Droghetti were promoted to the partnership in May 2020.
Practice head(s):
Ana Paula Miguel; Daniella Tavares; In Hee Cho; José Orlando Lobo
Testimonials
‘The team is very seasoned and has an unparalleled track record in education M&A, having advised in most of the relevant deals in the sector. They bring different perspectives and come up with good solutions to mitigate problems.‘
‘A good track record in the sector and M&A. Their availability is quite unique among other legal counsels.‘
‘Professionals are concerned with getting to know the client’s business in depth and conduct more assertive discussions aimed at strategic interests in the projects.‘
‘The main differential of Lobo de Rizzo is the constant presence of senior partners. You feel well advised with firm and experienced opinions. Simplicity of solutions, clarity of communication and objectivity in conducting the work are also highlights. A special mention to Rodrigo Millar de Castro Guerra and Otávio Lucas Solano Valério.’
Key clients
Afya Educacional
Arco Educação
Estácio Participações (part of YDUQS group)
Klabin Celulose
Intelbras
Grupo Cataratas
Advent International
Innova Global Tec
Serasa Experian
International Meal Company
Work highlights
- Assistance to Odebrecht Transport in the sale of part of its shares in Supervia to Mitsui in a R$3.4bn deal.
- Advised educational group YDUQS on the acquisition of the Brazilian operations of Adtalem Global Education, in the largest education-sector M&A deal in Brazil in 2019.
- Advised Biotoscana and its controlling shareholders (including Advent International and Essex Woodlands) on the sale of a 51.2% interest to Knight Therapeutics.
- Provided assistance to Arco Educação in the acquisition of Sistema Positivo de Ensino in a R$1.6bn deal.
- Advised Renova Energia on the sale to AES Tietê Energia in a R$1.5bn deal.
Pinheiro Guimarães – Advogados
With extensive experience in the financial services sector, Pinheiro Guimarães – Advogados acts for major domestic and international banks in addition to corporations. Its private equity expertise is also of note, where the team advises on investments, financing and divestments. The firm's capital markets expertise also allows it to advise publicly held companies on M&A which involves capital markets transactions and regulatory matters. Highlights in 2019 included Sergio Ramos Yoshino's advice to Itaú Unibanco on its R$200m investment in Brazilian power transmission company Argo Energia Empreendimentos e Participações. René Mostardeiro Brunet, Francisco José Pinheiro Guimarães, Plinio Pinheiro Guimarães Neto and Mariana Jost are all names to note.
Practice head(s):
Plinio Pinheiro Guimarães Neto; Marcelo Lamy Rego; Francisco José Pinheiro Guimarães
Key clients
BTG Pactual
Brookfield
Citibank
HSBC
GP Investments
Itau Unibanco
Gávea Investimentos
International Finance Corporation – IFC
Organizações Globo
Brazil Hospitality Group
RHI AG / RHI Magnesita
Credit Suisse
Enel
Principia Capital Partners
Goldman Sachs
DNA Capital
EDF
GTIS Partners
Graal Participações
BIONEXO
Participações Industriais do Nordeste
Cellera Farma
Air Bus / Helibrás
Arla Foods
Wilson Sons
Cremer
Mafra Group
Consigaz
Partners Group
Grupo Soma
Macquarie Capital
Klabin S.A.
Rede D’Or
Rock World (Rock in Rio)
B3 – Brasil, Bolsa, Balcão
CBSM – Companhia de Soluções de Marketing (Dotz)
Work highlights
- Acted as legal counsel to B3 (the Brazilian Stock Exchange) in connection with the purchase of 100% of the capital stock of Portal de Documentos, a company specialised in digital solutions for participants in the credit cycle.
- Advised Itaú Unibanco on its investment in Argo Energia Empreendimentos e Participações.
- Acted as legal counsel to the International Finance Corporation in its capacity as controlling shareholder of Austral Resseguradora and Terra Brasis Resseguros, in connection with the merger of the latter into Austral.
- Represented EGP, as seller, in connection with the sale of solar and wind power plants held by nine of its SPVs to CGN Energy International Holdings.
Stocche Forbes Advogados
'M&A powerhouse' Stocche Forbes Advogados continues to be engaged in notable corporate transactions in the Brazilian market. Meanwhile, its dedicated publicly listed company desk provides capital markets and regulatory assistance to a number of companies on an ongoing basis, while the private company desk assists its clients on a range of corporate and commercial matters. The firm also counts major Brazilian and international private equity firms among its clients. The corporate and M&A department saw considerable organic growth in its January 2020 round of promotions; Paola Carrara, Matheus Campos, Ricardo Peres Freoa and Rafael de Almeida Rosa Andrade are now partners. Established practitioners Flavio Meyer, André Mestriner Stocche , Fabiano Milani and Fernanda Cardoso are also key members of the team.
Practice head(s):
André Mestriner Stocche; Flavio Meyer; Fabiano Milani; Fernanda Cardoso
Testimonials
‘Stocche Forbes is an M&A powerhouse. In my opinion, it is the best department of the firm and, for sure, one of the top notch service providers in the field.‘
‘From partners to associates, service is rendered in a great balance between timing and quality. Also, whenever it is needed, the team quickly reach out to other departments of the firm, which, in general, provide high level of services as well. I am really happy to be assisted by them.‘
‘Matheus Campos is a talented new partner who works around the clock, helping you navigate transactions from the most simple to the more complex tasks. He is my go-to guy in M&A.’
‘On the more experienced partners, Andre Stocche is one of the most respected lawyers in the field and Fabiano Milani stands out for his knowledge on listed companies.‘
Key clients
Pátria Investimentos
Blackstone
L Catterton
Farallon Capital Management
One Equity Partners
GTIS Partners
ACON Investments
HIS Hemisfério Sul Investimentos
XP Investimentos
Mubadala
Tarpon Investimentos
Darby Franklin Templeton
Harvard Management Company
Grupo Verzani & Sandrini
Bradesco
CVS
Omega Energia
Energisa
Vale
Raizen
CCCC – China Communications Construction Company
Baidu
Dow Dupont
News Corp
Minerva
Cyrela
Votorantim Cimentos
Votorantim Energia
Nexa Resources
CPPIB
Work highlights
- Advised Engie on the acquisition by Engie and CDPQ of a 90% stake in Transportadora Associada de Gás – TAG.
- Advised Pátria Investimentos on the sale of 100% the capital stock of Agrichem do Brasil to Utilfertil – Indústria e Comércio de Fertilizantes.
- Advised Omega Geração, one of the leading renewable energy companies in Brazil, on the acquisition of Centrais Elétricas Assuruá.
- Advised FTV Capital in an additional follow-on investment in Ebanx.
Veirano Advogados
Veirano Advogados is noted for its 'good communication, tranquility, professionalism and accessibility'. With a significant presence in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Porto Alegre, the team has the size and resources to handle a large volume of transactions, including high-value M&A. In one highlight, a Rio-based team worked alongside an international firm to advise Canadian base metals company Lundin Mining Corporation on the acquisition of Mineração Maracá, Yamana Gold’s Brazilian copper and gold mining subsidiary. Augusto Cesar Barbosa de Souza and Carlos Alexandre Lobo lead the team, which includes corporate, banking and M&A expert Lior Pinsky; Paula Surerus, who leads on domestic and cross-border M&A transactions; the 'very hands-on' Alberto Bragança; and Sergio Bronstein, whose areas of expertise include M&A, private equity, finance and debt issuances. Diego Lerner was promoted to partner in January 2020, and Vitor Rozenthal made partner in January 2021.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The dedication and experience make a difference in delivering results.‘
‘Strong and broad knowledge of legislation and good contractual and M&A practices.‘
‘Good communication, tranquility, professionalism and accessibility.‘
‘Extensive knowledge on the issues that international companies face while doing business and transactions in Brazil. Veirano is a great partner to have by your side while doing an M&A.‘
‘Guilherme Monteiro and Carlos Alexandre Lobo – experience, dedication and availability distinguish them from the competition.‘
‘Partner Alberto Bragança is very hands on and has a lot of experience in corporate/M&A.‘
‘Tiago Figueiró has outstanding knowledge of the energy/electricity sector.‘
‘Associates Thaís Limani, Vitor Rozenthal and Fernao Pio were great in conducting a complex M&A.‘
Key clients
Telecom Itália / TIM Participações
Lundin
State Grid International Development
Nufarm
Shell
Light Street Capital
CEMIG
Uralkali
Kinea
Bradesco
Work highlights
- Advised Lundin Mining Corporation on its $1bn acquisition of a Brazilian subsidiary of Yamana Gold.
- Advised Australian crop protection company Nufarm on the sale of its subsidiary in Brazil, Nufarm Indústria Química e Farmacêutica, to Sumitomo Chemical.
- Advised Borrachas Vipal on the acquisition of a 51% stake in Marangoni Tread North America.
- Acted as counsel to Laureate Education in the acquisition of Manaus-headquartered SODECAM – Sociedade de Desenvolvimento Cultural do Amazonas, from Grupo Ser Educacional, through its subsidiary CENESUP – Centro Nacional de Ensino Superior.
Azevedo Sette Advogados
Azevedo Sette Advogados' corporate and M&A department continues to receive instructions in significant transactions from clients across a broad range of sectors. The team has seen growth at the partner level with the promotions of Rafael Tavares Bassoli and Thiago Assumpção Henriques in 2019 and Alessandra Martins de Souza in 2020. Senior partners Luiz Augusto Azevedo Sette and Fernando Azevedo Sette each draw on over 25 years of legal experience. Ana Paula Terra Caldeira is another key member of the team.
Practice head(s):
Fernando Azevedo Sette; Luis Ricardo Miraglia; Ordélio Azevedo Sette
Key clients
Andrade Gutierrez (Holding)
Habib’s Group
CGN Group
Localiza Rent a Car
Mapfre Group
Vale
Omiexperience
Anglo American
Falconi Consultores de Resultados
Fundepar (Fundep Participações)
Grupo Votorantim
Butiá Investimentos
Natura / The BodyShop
Komatsu Brasil
Vita Participações
Overseas Logística
Shiseido do Brasil
Work highlights
- Legal advisor to Vita Participações in the acquisition of 100% of the capital stock of Hemolad Serviços de Hemoterapia e Hematologia.
- Provided legal advice to Laticínios Lactojara on the sale of 30% of the capital stock for Leprino Foods.
- Advised Car Rental Systems, a wholly owned subsidiary of Localiza Rent a Car, on the acquisition of 100% of the shares held by individual investors in Localiza RP Aluguel de Carros.
Campos Mello Advogados in cooperation with DLA Piper
Campos Mello Advogados in cooperation with DLA Piper has strong experience in cross-border transactions, where it benefits from its association with DLA Piper. It also stands out for its expertise in private equity deals; a recent highlight was Marcus Vinicius Bitencourt's advice to Brazilian private equity and advisory company Starboard Asset Management on the acquisition (in partnership with Apollo Global Management) of 72.5% of the shares in retail company Maquina de Vendas. The department expanded at the associate level with several hires in 2019, including the August-arrival of senior associate Taciana Furlan from an in-house role. Fabiano Gallo, Carolina Sant’Angelo and Luiz Augusto Osorio are key names at the partner level. In a recent development, the firm added competition and antitrust capability to its service offering with the Luciana Martorano hire as of counsel in March 2020.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Starboard
Statkraft
Compass/GRSA
Basf
Eneva
Solar Coca-Cola
GE
CVC
Isolux
BlackHawk Network
3R Petróleo
Máquina de Vendas
ADM Promotions
Wipro Tecnologies
Finhealth
Lifemed
Crescera
Work highlights
- Advised Starboard Asset Management on the acquisition of 72.5% of the shares of Maquina de Vendas.
- Advised Statkraft Energias Renováveis on an M&A in the energy sector and with its first successful participation in an energy auction in Brazil.
- Assisted China Navigation Company with a strategic M&A transaction that assisted the client expand into larger segments of the shipping business.
Cascione Pulino Boulos Advogados
Noted for its 'good business sense' and 'very pragmatic attitude', Cascione Pulino Boulos Advogados' corporate and M&A department continues to be active in the market, advising on M&A (including distressed M&A), joint ventures and corporate governance. The team also has experience in corporate disputes. Key names in the department include 'natural leader' Eduardo Taleb Boulos; 'skilled professional' Milana Antoniolli Martins; Eduardo Juaçaba, whose broad expertise includes private equity and venture capital deals; and Augusto César Rodrigues, who is 'calm and considered in negotiations'. Guilherme Bertolini Fernandes dos Santos - who was promoted to partner in 2021 - also receives praise. In other internal developments, Luiz Eduardo Malta Corradini made partner in December 2019.
Practice head(s):
Eduardo Taleb Boulos; Milana Antoniolli Martins; Augusto César Rodrigues; Eduardo Juaçaba
Testimonials
‘Cascione has a legal M&A team with outstanding problem solving and negotiation skills. The team is always available to discuss any issue, this sometimes makes a huge differentiation to other firms.‘
‘I would like to highlight Cascione Pulino Boulos’ ability and capacity to bring original and feasible solutions to complex topics in all transactions we worked on together. In addition, Cascione excelled in taking a pragmatic approach to all M&As we participated in.‘
‘Good response time from the team. They stay focused. Some excellent drafting.‘
‘Augusto Rodrigues is very experienced, and calm and considered in negotiations. A strong relationship has grown and drawing up documentation has been a pleasure.‘
‘Definitely I like to highlight the skill and performance of Eduardo Boulos (senior partner) and Guilherme Bertolini. They were key individuals that collaborated in making the deal possible. I would also like to take the opportunity to highlight the work performed by Milana Martins (senior partner).‘
‘Highly qualified team which gathers a deep legal knowledge and a good business sense. The team has a very pragmatic attitude, providing well-founded recommendations allied with the real world limitation.‘
‘Eduardo Boulos is natural leader, conducts his internal team and the client’s team demonstrating high level of confidence. Guilherme Bertolini is the associate involved in the project, he has deep legal knowledge and is a reliable professional. Milana Martins is a skilled professional, she is able to manage hard situations that involves mix of business and family matters.‘
Key clients
Raízen
Carrefour
Korber AG
Pirelli
IG4
Lime
Swiss Re
QuintoAndar
Abril Comunicações
Dafiti
Work highlights
- Provided assistance to the shareholders of Abril Group in the sale of their equity interest in the company in a private bid that involved several potential buyers and simultaneous negotiations.
- Advised Swiss Re Direct Investments in several corporate and capital markets matters related to the sale of its 14.9% stake in Sul América.
- Advised Carrefour Group on the acquisition of a 49% stake in fintech Ewally Tecnologia e Serviços.
Huck, Otranto, Camargo Advogados
Huck, Otranto, Camargo Advogados maintains a broad M&A practice, handling a range of high-end and mid-market deals. Its recent caseload encompasses M&A in a variety of industries, where the team acts for both Brazilian and international companies. Highlights included Carol Saposnic's advice to venture capital company Joa Investimentos in its investment in Green People; the deal represented a strategic step in the client's expansion into the food and beverage market. Luis Gustavo Haddad leads the team, which includes key contacts Bruno Robert, Hermes Marcelo Huck and Ana Carolina Barbuio Affonso,
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Comfrio Soluções Logísticas
Blau Farmacêutica
Sengés Papel e Celulose
Waison Group Limited / Waison Power Company Limited
Mercado Bitcoin
Holding Clube
Porto Seguro
Assupero (Grupo Unip)
Tembici Participações
Ciatc Participações
Grupo Proibida
Grupo Brasil Norte
Laboratório Cristália
Joa Investimentos
Work highlights
- Advised Joa Investimentos on an investment in Green People to acquire a minority interest in the company.
- Advised Wasion Group on a sizeable M&A deal that was essential for its entry into the Brazilian market.
- Advised Movile Internet Móvel on the sale of its shares in Truckpad, a management and hiring platform for truck drivers.
KLA Advogados
2020 marked KLA Advogados' 18th year; during which time the firm has established a well-known brand for corporate and M&A and secured an enviable client roster. In one of the largest telecoms deals of 2019, Karin Alvo and a team advised Hughes on its joint venture with Yahsat; the new joint venture will offer internet access directly to consumers and through community Wi-Fi hotspots. Leading practitioners in the team include Tania Liberman, Luiz Filipe Aranha, Melissa Kanô and Mariana Cortez. Key names at the associate level include Patrícia Braga , Marina Bittar and Mário Fioratti.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘I think they have a lot of expertise. Partners are accessible and really involved in the deals. You can truly form a partnership with them in order to develop a long lasting relationship that benefits both companies.‘
‘The team has a great holistic understanding of a transaction and they utilize every corner of their broad range of expertise to get things done, yet somehow doing so in a cost effective manner.‘
‘Tania Liberman is an outstanding partner. She brings a combination of clear, practical advice and vast experience, and couples it with great communication skills.‘
‘Karin Alvo is really good, accessible and makes you feel your deal is the most important one for her.‘
‘Associate Mario Fioratti is amazing, always available to assist, actually understands our business and worries.‘
‘Marina Bittar is a star associate. She provides excellent advice and is always confident and clear, but knows when to marshall other resources within the firm. I never worry that I need to check with a partner if I’m talking to Marina.‘
Key clients
Suzano
Boston Scientific
QMC Towers Infrastructure
General Mills / Yoplait
Hughes/EchoStar satellite
Lear Corporation
Ecogen Brasil Soluções Energéticas (Mitsui Group)
Bain Company
Omnicom Group
Mars
Publicis Group
GPA
Ânima Educação
Accor Hotels
Nordic Power Partners
Orange Business Telecom
Kaszek Ventures
Monashees Investments
Roeslein
Peninsula Fund
Kempulp
GL&V
Dentsu Aegis Network
Work highlights
- Assisted Hughes with its joint venture with Yahsat, focused on offering broadband services in Brazil.
- Assisted Ânima with several acquisition processes, including deals involving major education players in Brazil.
- Assisted Suzano in the negotiations of the post-closing issues relating to the acquisition of various real estate properties from Duratex.
Tauil & Chequer Advogados in association with Mayer Brown
Tauil & Chequer Advogados in association with Mayer Brown saw organic growth with the promotions of Débora Yanasse and Guilherme Tranquillini to partner, and the arrival of energy, infrastructure and M&A specialists Bruno Salzano and Bruno Werneck from Mattos Filho, Veiga Filho, Marrey Jr. e Quiroga Advogados during the course of 2019. The firm has established a strong reputation in the energy and oil and gas sectors, where it has an active transactional profile. Carlos Motta and Daniel Gunzburger have recently taken a lead in a number of the department's major deals. Victor Galante and Alexandre Chequer are names to note in the Rio de Janeiro office.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Excellent technical and negotiation skills and very proactive communication with client.’
‘Vast experience and knowledge in different areas.’
‘Victor Galante has great expertise, coordinates the teams well in a transaction and knows the client’s needs.’
Key clients
Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec – CDPQ
Barra Energia
BTG Pactual
Corteva Agrisciences
Quotaholders of Instituto de Ensino Superior do Piauí
Alberta Investment Management Corporation (AIMCo)
Mineração Espírito Santo
Locaweb Serviços de Internet
Movida Participações
Work highlights
- Advised CDPQ on its joint acquisition with Engie of a 90% shareholding stake in Transportadora Associada de Gás – TAG, formerly a wholly-owned subsidiary of Petrobras.
- Represented Banco BTG Pactual in the acquisition of several shopping malls.
- Advised Corteva Agrisciences on the sale of its participation in a joint venture focused on the manufacturing of seeds.
Trench Rossi Watanabe
Split between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the team at Trench Rossi Watanabe has seen a number of recent team changes. These include the June-2019 promotion of Felipe Calil to partner and the departure of Alberto Mori for Gaia Silva Gaede Advogados in December. Meanwhile, Daniel Facó has successfully transferred his strong M&A practice to the firm since his arrival in early 2019; and Anna Tavares de Mello continues to handle notable transactions, particularly in the energy, oil and gas, infrastructure and insurance sectors. Other names to note include Monica Castro Pereira Cavalcanti and, at the associate level, Paula Alonso. Mauricio Pacheco is also highlighted.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Paula Alonso is an outstanding lawyer concerning M&A.’
Key clients
Petrobras
Bunge
Bemis
Procter & Gamble
Merck
PepsiCo
Yara
Abbott
Siemens
FedEx
Froneri
LiveStyle
Transamerica Aegon Group
Petrobras Logística de Gás
Grupo SBF
Hotmart
Work highlights
- Represented Centauro in the acquisition of Nike do Brasil Comércio e Participações by its subsidiary for approximately R$900m.
- In the context of the merger agreement between Magazine Luiza and Netshoes, the firm advised Centauro on an unprecedented competing bid to attempt to acquire all shares of Netshoes and prevent the completion of the announced transaction.
- Provided legal assistance to Canadian Solar Group in a corporate reorganisation and subsequent sale of its 80% interest in a 482.6 MWp portfolio of contracted solar projects in Brazil.
Vella Pugliese Buosi e Guidoni Advogados
Vella Pugliese Buosi e Guidoni Advogados is well versed in corporate transactions across the healthcare, energy and retail sectors, among others, and is noted for its 'senior partner engagement'. The firm also stands out in the private equity space; recent work includes Rodrigo Vella's advice to Bain Capital portfolio-company Notredame Intermédica on the acquisition of hospitals, clinical centres and health insurance groups. Other key figures at the firm, which is associated with Dentons, include Bruna Gobbi, Gabriella Maranesi Najjar, Frederico Buosi and Denise Chachamovitz Leão de Salles, who is highlighted for her 'profound knowledge in corporate law'.
Practice head(s):
Rodrigo Vella; Frederico Buosi; Denise Chachamovitz Leão de Salles; Gabriella Maranesi Najjar
Testimonials
‘High expertise in corporate matters.‘
‘Senior partner engagement in the negotiation.‘
‘Denise Salles has a very good team in order to support the legal problems of the company.‘
‘Partner Denise Salles – profound knowledge in corporate law; super available and engaged.‘
Key clients
Notredame Intermédica / Bain Capital
Total Group
Fresenius Medical Care
Pátria Investimentos
Blackstone Capital
Archimed
CGG Veritas Group
Terna
Naturgy Group (Naturgy Distribucíon Latinoamérica and controlled entities)
KKR (and controlled entities)
Som.Us do Brasil Corretora de Resseguros
Roku
Informa
UBS
NVA Representações e Participações (Eireli and Partec Tecnologia)
Westermann Groupe
Work highlights
- Represented Calsonic Kansei in the €6.2bn global acquisition of Magnetti Marelli.
- Provided legal advice to Notredame Intermédica on the acquisition of hospitals, clinical centres and health insurance groups located in the State of São Paulo.
- Advised major Brazilian private equity fund Patria Investimentos (and several of its portfolio companies) on their roll-up processes, including various in the life sciences sector.
Araújo e Policastro Advogados
Well-established firm Araújo e Policastro Advogados has strong relationships with many clients, several of which have been working with the firm for decades. Among its recent areas of growth are M&A, cross-border disputes and succession planning. Camila da Motta Pacheco Alves de Araújo excels in M&A, general business law, infrastructure and regulatory matters; she co-heads the department alongside founding partner José Theodoro Alves de Araújo and senior partner José Paulo Bueno. Names to note at the associate level include Marina Pacheco de Araújo Paciullo, Júlio Cesar Domingues and Bárbara dos Santos Moreira.
Practice head(s):
Camila da Motta Pacheco Alves de Araújo; José Theodoro Alves de Araújo; José Paulo Bueno
Testimonials
‘Very good services. High quality expertise.‘
Key clients
Alcoa Corporation / Alcoa Alumínio
Amphenol Corporation
Cabot Corporation
Dover
Hospital Ana Costa
Lindsay Corporation
Meritor
Metalsa
Rentokil Initial España
Telefonica on the Spot Soluções Digitais do Brasil
Work highlights
- Provided assistance to Rentokil Initial Group (UK) on the acquisition of Ecovec Comércio e Licenciamento de Tecnologias.
ASBZ Advogados
ASBZ Advogados has seen significant growth since its establishment in 2011, and has cemented a solid reputation in the corporate sphere. It has recently won a number of new clients operating in the agribusiness, energy and food sectors, among others, and it also stands out for its aviation-sector expertise. Key partners Ricardo Melaré and Gabriela Claro can draw on in-house and private practice experience, including at international firms. Gustavo Rached Taiar and associate Thiago Takuno receive praise.
Practice head(s):
Felipe Gruber; Gabriela Claro; Gustavo Rached Taiar; Ricardo Melaré
Testimonials
‘The main difference between ASBZ team and other law firms is that they are all business oriented, they behave like entrepreneurs all the time. They are fast to understand the details of the negotiation, and always translate the legal terms, especially in M&A practice, to business language, so we can decide and proceed very fast in the negotiation causing no unnecessary noise to the other part of the negotiation.‘
‘It is also important to mention that the ASBZ office is completely different from other law firms; it looks like a start-up company, which makes them very agile. Lastly, all of the staff, not only the lawyers, make you feel like you are in your own company.‘
‘Gustavo Taiar is an exceptional lawyer, not only very knowledgeable but also very humble and always available.‘
‘The office is very well located in the heart of the commercial area of Sao Paulo. Very cool interior design. Doesn’t look like a law firm at all, and that is a good thing. The team is very friendly and accessible, there is no formality and they are very honest.‘
‘Gustavo Rached Taiar – very patient, he stands out bringing the most important things in the negotiation to our attention. He is very focused in our meetings, so we just need to explain one time our demands and situation. Another great thing is that the feedbacks is very fast.‘
‘Thiago Takuno – very focused, every demand that we or the deal needs, he was ready to do it, and every time it was done very well. The communication was also a great factor, highly available, by WhatsApp, e-mail or phone. Last, his technical knowledge was a huge difference to make the deal done fast.‘
Key clients
United Airlines
Mutant
Hines
El Al
Carteira Online
Bradesco
BTG Pactual
Arteon Z
Ambev
Digital Smile Desing
Globenet
Caixa Econômica Federal
Braskem
Fortezza Partners
J Macedo
Louis Dreyfus Company
Habibs
Tarpon Investimentos
ISA CTEEP
Cetrel
Regina Festas
Sagmo Capital
Cipatex
Tecnisa
Terra Santa Agro
Work highlights
- Advised DSD on a strategic partnership with Align Technology.
- Advised Mutant on the acquisition of technology and customer services global solutions provider, Interaxa, a significant player in the Latin America market.
Dias Carneiro Advogados
The 'commercially astute' team at Dias Carneiro Advogados has 'one of the best' venture capital practices in Brazil. Among the department's recent work was its advice to venture capital fund Monashees Capital on the acquisition of a minority stake in Fazenda Futuro Produtos Alimentícios, a Brazilian plant-based 'meat' startup; well-regarded Eduardo Zilberberg led the team, which included associates Vivian Tito Rudge and Luiz Fernando Silva Ramos Filho. Artur Fernandes Andrezo heads the M&A practice and is noted for his business sense. Paula Seabra Carvalho Reis joined from Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton in May 2020; her experience spans M&A, corporate restructurings and general corporate law.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Their venture capital practice is one the best in Brazil. Eduardo’s Zilberberg team have shown deep knowledge of VC funding best practices and contractual arrangements for the sector. They were able to quickly formulate effective strategies for each case, exceeding our expectations time and again.‘
‘Eduardo Zilberberg stands out as one the most admirable, knowledgeable and dedicated venture capital lawyers we have ever worked with, setting the highest standards of work in his team. He is very personable and easily gains the trust of everybody on the negotiation table.‘
‘Vivian Tito Rudge is a brilliant lawyer, an amazing problem-solving machine. She has superior analytical skills and can process large volumes of information, devising practical and clever solutions to move the deal forward. I cannot recommend her enough.‘
‘I would highlight Artur’s knowledge of accounting aspects and commercial conditions of business conducted by my company. His team also is fully committed and I can totally rely on them.‘
‘DCA’s corporate and M&A practice is strong. They regularly handle the local Brazilian aspects of cross border M&A and financing transactions and are also proficient when required to take the “lead counsel” role. Very responsive and commercially astute.‘
‘Very available, efficient and client aligned.‘
‘Eduardo Zilberberg and Vivian Tito Rudge are standout attorneys. They are commercially astute and highly responsive and manage transactions efficiently.‘
‘Great service, they are quick to return and are attentive.‘
Key clients
Vox Capital
CITIC Agri Fund Management
e.Bricks Ventures
Voltalia Energia do Brasil
Solairedirect
Parparticipadas, SGPS
Gerdau Aços Longos
Monashees Capital
Servizi Italia
Kaszek Ventures
DOMO Invest
Lótus Logística Integrada
GTIS Partners
Single Home
BTG Pactual
Brasil Plural
Otinga Investimentos
KSM Realty
Ribbit Capital
Dechra Pharmaceuticals
RAGT Semences
EDP Renováveis Brasil
Gate Gourmet
Oba Hortifruti
Clinica Médica e Odontológica Saúde Inclusão Medicina
Provence Capital
EDK Mineração
Robert Bosch
Inovabra
Dental Cremer Produtos Odontológicos
Siguler Guff & Company
Stefanini
Mahle
Vallourec
Odebrecht
Work highlights
- Represented Brasil Plural in the merger of its subsidiary Terra Brasis with Austral Re, creating the second largest reinsurer in Brazil with combined annual premiums of approximately R$1.6bn.
- Assisted Monashees Capital with the acquisition of a minority stake in Fazenda Futuro Produtos Alimentícios.
Felsberg Advogados
The 'client-friendly, sophisticated and efficient' team at Felsberg Advogados balances a busy corporate advisory and transactional workload and is particularly active in deals involving disruptive and innovative technologies. João Carlos Mendonça has key experience in the technology, healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors; Maria Carolina Guazzelli advises leading fashion brands, among other clients. Miriam Machado, Renato Brandão and Evy Marques each receive praise, and the team also benefits from the input of several experienced associates, including Mirella Kaufman and Paula Sozzi.
Practice head(s):
Maria da Graça de Brito Vianna Pedretti; Claudia Maniaci; João Carlos Mendonça; Miriam Machado
Testimonials
‘The Felsberg team is multidisciplinary and extremely committed to the outcome. They are very available to our demands and deliver results very efficiently.‘
‘Renato Brandão is an experienced, multidisciplinary lawyer who takes great care of addressing our demands.‘
‘Miriam Machado is very knowledgeable about our industry in Brazil, always with a focus of reaching a practical solution. She has earned the respect and confidence of many people at our headquarters.‘
‘Also to mention the solid performance rendered by associate Paula Sozzi, who responds very efficiently and promptly to the many inquiries.‘
‘Felsberg is my go-to law firm in Brazil. Felsberg is client-friendly, sophisticated and efficient. I would highly recommend them to any other tech company working in Brazil.‘
‘Evy Marques is our primary partner and she both brings substantive expertise to bear and prioritizes our relationship. I trust Evy and go to her with a wide range of Brazilian issues.‘
Key clients
ARRIS Group
Grupo JCA
Grupo Guanabara
Essity
Intocast
WPP Group
Spar Group
Rappi Brasil
CCCC South America Regional Company
Associação Brasileira de Reciclagem de Eletroeletrônicos e Eletrodomésticos (ABREE)
IPS Worldwide
Work highlights
- Advised the founders of the brewery Caravan Beer in three investment rounds with private investors.
- Advising Avis Group on a strategic partnership with major Brazilian car renatal company Movida Participações.
Machado Associados
Machado Associados impresses with its 'strong expertise' in international M&A transactions. The practice advises on a range of corporate transactions and non-transactional matters, including commercial contracts, corporate governance and disputes, and also benefits from the firm's well-established tax practice. Key names in the experienced team include Mauro Takahashi Mori, Rochelle Ricci, and Mirella da Costa Andreola de Almeida.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Strong expertise regarding international M&A transactions. Exceptional availability. Strong tax team to support M&A transactions.‘
‘The team is extremely cautious, meets the requested deadlines and has a lot of security in their work.‘
‘Most of the people with whom I interact in the office delve into the issues, pass on security and comfort to the client and always look for a way to make business really happen.‘
‘Mauro Takahashi Mori: truly available, straightforward approach, great mix of technical skills.‘
Key clients
CCR Group
Columbia Group
Buzzi Unicem
Líder Táxi Aéreo
AR Metallizing
Santista Group
Grupo Boticário
Listo Tecnologia
Promon Logicalis
dōTERRA Brasil
ArFrio
Work highlights
- Acted for Tok Take Alimentação in its sale to Gran Coffee, controlled by Patria Investment Funds.
- Advised the shareholders of Exceda on the sale of the group companies in Brazil and their assets in Argentina, Chile, Mexico and the USA, to Akamai.
Ulhôa Canto, Rezende e Guerra Advogados
The M&A team at Ulhôa Canto, Rezende e Guerra Advogados is equipped to handle a broad range of transactions across numerous sectors, including real estate, energy and financial services. Key practitioners include Pedro Chueiri, Marcelo Maria Santos, Aloysio Meirelles de Miranda Filho and Guilherme Rocha Murgel de Rezende.
Vieira, Rezende, Barbosa e Guerreiro Advogados
Vieira, Rezende, Barbosa e Guerreiro Advogados continues to receive instructions on a range of significant corporate transactions. The firm also stands out for its strength in capital markets and matters connected to the Brazilian Securities Commission (CVM). Recent highlights include Helena Guimarães and Cláudio Guerreiro's advice to Fundação Petrobras de Seguridade Social – Petros, regarding the sale of its equity stakes in seven investment funds. Camila Borba Lefèvre and Ricardo Ariani Filho are also key contacts.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘They have a senior capacity in comparison with others. So, we could talk with a partner every time if it was necessary.‘
‘Ricardo Ariani is the partner that we are aligned with. He has a good time response and he is very specialised in commercial issues.‘
Key clients
Itaú Unibanco
Vale
Brasil Plural
Previ
Petros
Rio Energy
EDP
DBO
Confrapar
Eleva Educação
Work highlights
- Advised Fundação Petrobras de Seguridade Social – Petros on the sale of all quotas held by the client in seven investment funds.
- Advised Akangatu in connection with the acquisition of a 16.97% equity stake in Casa & Video, which resulted in the control of 100% of Casa & Video.
Abe Giovanini Advogados
Abe Giovanini Advogados is active in mid-market domestic and cross-border M&A, where it is particularly strong on the sell-side of transactions; it is also equipped to advise clients on corporate restructuring, corporate governance and disputes. Senior partner Marcos Seiiti Abe has broad experience in the market, often representing Japanese and Brazilian companies. Fernando Zanotti Schneider also takes a lead role in the department's mandates.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘A cohesive team, working together and always presenting results with everyone coordinated, with the person directly responsible for the proposed subject, always serving us very efficiently.’
‘Lots of coherence and transparency, with information and guidelines always aimed at the best possible result, always highlighting the strengths and weaknesses to be addressed with their consequences clearly exposed.’
Key clients
Real Time
Bifarma
G5 Partners
Cheftime Comércio de Refeições
Verity Consultoria em Tecnologia
Refrex Group
Hikari Industria e Comércio
Geominas Minerações
Ornatus Group
A W Faber-Castell
Work highlights
- Advised Real Time on the negotiation and signing of a joint venture agreement pertaining to the licensing, research and development of alternative energy sources.
Almeida Advogados
Brazilian and international companies turn to Almeida Advogados for assistance in sales, acquisitions, joint ventures and corporate restructurings. The firm has also developed a significant practice advising minority shareholders. André de Almeida heads the department, which also includes corporate, commercial, IP and internet law expert Pedro Tinoco. However, since publication Leonardo Palhares has moved to international firm Kobre & Kim.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘A very good team that can think out-of-the-box, keeping a steady grip on the technical side of each case.‘
Key clients
Cargo Systems
Citeluz Serviços de Iluminação
Energ Power
Mistui Japan
Fis Group
Gafisa
H Homoterapia Brasil
Mahle Metal Leve
Mina do Gama
Reachlocal Brasil Serviços de Tecnologia da Informação em Marketing
Recifceco
Work highlights
- Assisting Drive Cargo with the incorporation of Cargo Brazil and with setting up its business all over the country.
Baptista Luz Advogados
Baptista Luz Advogados covers corporate, tax, labour, data protection and IP law, and is equipped to advise on venture capital and M&A deals, often working on behalf of technology companies and venture capital and private equity funds. Managing partner Luis Felipe Baptista Luz and Jessica Bernstein Heumann are names to note at the partner level, and Diogo Perroni Carvalho and Diego Nabarro are key associates.
Practice head(s):
Luis Felipe Baptista Luz; Jessica Bernstein Heumann; Alexandre José de Pauli Santana
Testimonials
‘Team is very rounded in terms of legal skill sets. They have strong know-how in the technology industry which helps a lot in dealing with strategic decisions both on the M&A side and corporate law.‘
‘Felipe is a seasoned lawyer with very practical approach while still keeping the bar high in terms of legal accountability and risks.‘
Key clients
A5 Investimentos
ABSeed
Blinks
Blue Interactive
Conductor
Consinco
Credit Vista
Darwin Startups
Dr Hato
Endurance
Embraer
Estee Lauder Companies
Fanatee
F.biz
Fidessa
FK Partners
Genesis Group
Grupo Pão de Açúcar
Grupo One7
Havas
Hi Plataform
Inseed Investimentos
LBS
Magliano
Medcomerce
MJ et Cie
Oral Sin
MightyHive / Progmedia
Rappi
Rede Tendência
ROIx
Startup Farm
Softplan
Sotran
SouSmile
Tail Target
TechStars
Vai Tecnologia
Viajanet
VR Benefícios
Yellow
W3 Haus
Work highlights
- Advised Yellow Soluções de Mobilidade on its merger with Grin, a Mexican-based electric scooter startup.
Candido Martins Advogados
Candido Martins Advogados excels in mid-market M&A, where it acts for buyers and seller across a broad spectrum of sectors, and is particularly prominent in the agribusiness industry. The department was further boosted in August 2019 with the promotion of Daniel Rodrigues Alves to partner; he acts in domestic and international private equity and M&A deals. The experienced team is led by Henrique Martin and also includes Renata Simon.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Saint Gobain
Raízen
Nexa Resources
GEF Capital Partners
Intercement Participações
Aqua Capital
Confrapar
G5 Partners
Bip Holding do Brasil
Eucatex
Work highlights
- Advised Aqua Capital on the purchase and subscription of shares equivalent to 60% of Grão de Ouro Agronegócios.
Castro Barros Advogados
Castro Barros Advogados' corporate team operates from the firm's Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo offices; in M&A, the team commonly represents buyers, though it has also grown its seller-side caseload. Anna Cecilia Rostworowski da Costa Buff's practice spans corporate, competition and regulation; Helen Gaudio Valente advises on M&A, project finance and contracts; and Fernanda Alves Wolf has knowledge of corporate, contracts, judicial recovery and capital markets law.
Practice head(s):
Anna Cecilia Rostworowski da Costa Buff; Fernanda Alves Wolf; Guilherme Tepedino Hernandez
Key clients
Seedcorp HO Produção e Comercialização de Sementes
Brasbunker Participações
Marsh Corretora de Seguros
Brasilor Comércio de Produtos Ópticos e Participações (EssilorLuxxotica)
Eurofins do Brasil Análise de Alimentos (Eurofins Group)
SA O Estado de S Paulo
Pestana Hotel Group – Brasturinvest Investimentos Turísticos
União de Lojas Leader
Casa & Vídeo Rio de Janeiro
SOS Global Express
Domino’s Pizza – RP1 Restaurantes
Ibereólica Renováveis do Brasil
CVRJ Participações (Legion Group)
Cavalry Investimentos EIRELI
Abril Comunicações (em recuperação judicial)
Reed Exhibitions Alcântara Machado (RELX Group)
Work highlights
- Assistance to RP1 (Domino’s Pizza), a Vinci Partners controlled company, in a series of franchise acquisitions in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
CGM Advogados
'A unique firm with uniquely talented practitioners', CGM Advogados maintains a key focus on M&A, and also advises on compliance, contractual, corporate governance and general corporate matters. Its clients include household name companies operating in a range of sectors, notably automotive, life sciences and retail. Key practitioners include Adriano Chaves, René Gelman, Martim Machado and Camila Magami Cardinale.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘CGM is a unique firm with uniquely talented practitioners. The named partners and several of the others are exceptionally bright and responsive. Their performance level is up to the best of the largest firms, with even greater attention to the individual needs of clients. They work hard and produce the same results (or better) as their peers at firms that are reputed to be the best in Brazil.‘
‘I find Rene Gelman and Martim Machado both exceptionally bright, and I value their judgment on complicated matters. Both are able to zero in on the issues, put them in the appropriate perspective, and deliver answers that can be relied upon. And they are always responsive, and clients can always count on them. And their rates, staffing levels and efficiency are exceptional.‘
‘Excellent professionals, assertive, objective, in-depth technical knowledge and quick responses.‘
‘Adriano Chaves and Camila Magami are recommended.‘
‘Personal attention and great service.‘
Key clients
Porsche
Advanced Potash Technologies
ITW – Illinois Tool Works
UOL/Pagseguro
Sonova – Phonak
Boardriders
H J Baker
Brainvest
Thermo Fisher
KB Foods
Novelis
Work highlights
- Assisted Mitsui with legal and compliance due diligence and the acquisition of an equity stake in Brazilian chemical company Ouro Fino Química.
FreitasLeite Advogados
The sizeable and highly regarded corporate department at FreitasLeite Advogados is often instructed in significant M&A, including transactions involving listed companies, drawing on the firm's capital markets, tax and real estate teams for support where necessary. João Pedro Barroso do Nascimento, Claudio Fabricio Lima and Pedro Afonso Gutierrez Avvad are names to note at the partner level. Associates Amanda Peres and Júlia Rodrigues Costa de Serpa Brandão also receive praise.
Practice head(s):
Pedro Afonso Gutierrez Avvad; João Pedro Barroso do Nascimento; Claudio Fabricio Lima
Testimonials
‘The refinement in the work delivered and the understanding of the context of the company show the office’s capacity and seriousness for the work requested.’
‘The structure and procedures followed by the office demonstrate the serious and precise line with which they work.’
‘Freitas Leite M&A is led by Joao Pedro Nascimento who has a great team behind him. The team can work directly with clients and deal with key figures independently and that is a great value of the firm.’
‘The deal team my company works with is Joao Pedro Nascimento, Amanda Peres and Julia Serpa. All of them are very diligent, organised and detail-oriented. Joao and Amanda lead meetings and negotiations individually.‘
Key clients
Absolute Gestão de Investimentos
Avenue Securities
Axxon Group Private Equity
Banco Andbank (Brasil)
Banco Bonsucesso
Banco Modal
BR Malls
BR Marinas
BRQ Digital Solutions
CCX Carvão da Colombia / OSX Brasil / and MMX Mineração e MMX Mineração e
Cluster2Go
Engeform Contruções e Comércio
Engie
Fabrimar Indústria e
General Water
Globo Comunicação e Participações
HUB Participações
ISACTEEP
Klefer Producoes e Promocoes
Lazard Asset Management
LGT Impact
Live Nation
Markel Seguradora
Matera Systems
Maua Investimentos
Octagon
Perfin Administração de Recursos
Piraquê
Praia Rasa Empreendimentos
Quest Investimentos
Raiz Educação
Rio2C
Rock in Rio
SGGC Participações
Triar Investimentos
Usaflex
VBI Real Estate
XP Investimentos
Work highlights
- Advised BR Malls and other buyers on the acquisition of a 29.5% stake of Shopping Iguatemi Caxias from Iguatemi, Maiojama and others.
Gaia Silva Gaede Advogados
Gaia Silva Gaede Advogados, which celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2020, was further bolstered by the January arrival of experienced partner Alberto Mori from Trench Rossi Watanabe. The firm stands out for its geographic coverage: Vanessa Cristina Santiago and Fernando Antonio Cavanha Gaia are based in São Paulo; Gerson Stocco de Siqueira and Mauro da Cruz Jacob work from the Rio de Janeiro office; and Antônio Carlos Pacheco Júnior is the name to note in Curitiba. The team advises healthcare, energy, oil and gas and automotive companies on a range of transactional and non-transactional matters.
Practice head(s):
Antonio Carlos Pacheco Junior; Mauro da Cruz Jacob; Alberto Mori
Testimonials
‘The whole team is very well prepared for any situation and they are always ready to assist.’
‘Ivan Hasse, Antonio Pacheco and Ludmila Albuquerque are recommended.‘
Key clients
Unimed-Rio Cooperativa
Negresco Administração e Participações
Plenovale Florestal
Companhia de Energias Renováveis (CER)
Soifer Participações Societárias
Schreiber Foods
Parati Indústria e Comércio de Alimentos
NGC do Brasil
Laguna Incorporações
Tupy
Work highlights
- Advised Unimed-Rio Cooperativa de Trabalho Médico on: (i) the purchase of 50% of the equity interests of a JV Co: and (ii) on the acquisition by the JV Co of Hospital do Fundação do Câncer.
Gasparini, De Cresci e Nogueira de Lima Advogados
Gasparini, De Cresci e Nogueira de Lima Advogados is specialised in mid-market M&A and corporate restructurings, and also assists clients with general corporate and commercial matters. Its client base comprises new and longstanding clients operating in the agribusiness, retail, IT and education sectors, among others. The main partners - Marcus Phelipe Barbosa de Souza, Felipe Mavignier and Paula Taira Horiuti - each draw on significant experience in corporate and contract law.
Practice head(s):
Marcus Phelipe Barbosa de Souza; Paula Taira Horiuti; Felipe Mavignier
Testimonials
‘The service provided by this law firm is different, as they provide all the assistance from the beginning of the operation until its conclusion, with a service provided directly by partners and seniors who assist with doubts and any questions that arise at any time, always in favor of the operation.‘
‘They assist us at any time and are always ready to help, demonstrating great knowledge over the issues demanded and very quick to resolve issues that arise suddenly.‘
Key clients
Iron Mountain
Comparex Group
MDM Pharma Group
Giorgio Armani
Jato Dynamics
Farmina Pet Foods
Hyper Island
Greenwood Resources Capital Management
Eucateca Florestal
Ardex Americas
Paris Pharma Group
Braseco
Move Concerts
GTT Brasil Telecomunicações
Mata Mineira Investimentos Florestais
Vale do Jequitinhonha Participações e Silvicultura
Work highlights
- Advised Greenwood Resources as buyer in the acquisition of a 45% stake in Mamoneira Agropastoril from AGFA Fundo de Investimento em Participações for R$72m.
Gentil Monteiro, Vicentini, Beringhs e Gil Advogados
Gentil Monteiro, Vicentini, Beringhs e Gil Advogados stands out for its strong client base, which includes major international and Brazilian companies; the firm has also recently won a number of new clients in the mining, gaming and food and beverage sectors. Fernando Gentil Monteiro, Terence Beringhs and associate Victor Daldegan De Rossi are key names in the busy corporate and M&A department, which was further bolstered by the arrival of Apoena Joels from Tauil & Chequer Advogados in association with Mayer Brown in May 2020.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Proactivity, agility and availability.‘
‘They always try to be part of the solution and not of the problem. I would highlight Terence and Victor.‘
Key clients
Amazon
MDS Group
Mubadala
Iharabras
Cooke Aquaculture
Taiyo Kogyo Corporation
SA Paulista
C6 Bank
Skylight Consulting
Poch International Enterprise
Simulcasting Brasil Som e Imagem
Work highlights
- Represented MDS Group in the acquisition of 100% of the capital stock of the insurance broker company Bens.
L.O. Baptista Advogados
L.O. Baptista Advogados has the size and resources to handle complex and large-scale M&A; in a recent highlight, Daniela Zaitz and a team advised Rolls-Royce on the Brazilian aspects of the global sale of its commercial maritime division to Kongsberg Group. Marta Rodrigues and Esther Jerussalmy Cunha are also key practitioners in the department.
Practice head(s):
Daniela Zaitz; Marta Rodrigues; Cássia Monteiro Cascione; Esther Jerussalmy Cunha
Key clients
Captalys
Grupo Vallourec
Grupo Orbis
São Martinho
Grupo Usina da Pedra
Usina Batatais Açúcar e Álcool
Andritz Group
Companhia Brasileira de Tecnologia para E-Commerce
Grupo Imagina
Guala Closures
Work highlights
- Advised Tessarema Resources on the formation of a joint venture among Tessarema Resources, North Extração de Minério and Pan Brazilian.
Levy & Salomão
Levy & Salomão covers a range of contentious and non-contentious corporate and commercial matters, with an emphasis on heavily regulated sectors in which the firm has long had particular strength. Jorge Prada Levy, Daniel Tardelli Pessoa and Ana Cecília Giorgi Manente are the key names.
Madrona Advogados
M&A is a core focus at Madrona Advogados, which counts a number of household name companies among its clients and is active in domestic and cross-border transactions. Name partner Ricardo Madrona has broad experience in sales, acquisitions, mergers and joint ventures. Other key contacts include corporate and contract law expert Milena Coimbra Mazzini and José Luis Camargo.
Practice head(s):
Ricardo Madrona; José Luis Camargo; Milena Mazzini; Danilo Mininel
Key clients
Merck Sharp & Dohme Farmacêutica
Americanet
Hapvida
CI&T Software
Vale
Estácio
UOL
Votorantim
Nazca Needish
SouthRock
Work highlights
- Advised Hapvida on the acquisition of 100% of the shares issued by GSFRP Participações, holding of Grupo São Francisco Saúde.
Mattos Engelberg Advogados
Mattos Engelberg Advogados advises Brazilian and international companies on mid-market M&A, joint ventures and reorganisations. In a notable development, the firm signed a cooperation agreement with international firm Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP in August 2019. Key names include Fernando Engelberg de Moraes, who draws on 35 years' experience both in-house and in private practice; Cristiane Borges da Costa, who has strong experience in M&A, contracts and corporate governance; and André de Godoy Fernandes, who receives strong praise.
Practice head(s):
Fernando Engelberg de Moraes; Cristiane Borges da Costa; André de Godoy Fernandes
Testimonials
‘My company works with Mattos Engelberg since the beginning in 2016 and we are really happy and confortable with them. They are able to answer all our corporate’s issues, otherwise they always advise us as to the best professional. The team is strong on M&A process and also on taxes issues.‘
‘Andre de Godoy Fernandes is really professional and highly responsive and always advised me perfectly. Andre worked with us on three complex acquisitions and in all the post acquisition processes.‘
‘The team is really good at conducting negotiations.‘
‘André de Godoy Fernandes, the M&A partner, is a valued partner for the company.‘
Key clients
Groupe UP (ex-Chèque Déjeuner)
Ferrero do Brasil
Bunge do Brasil
State Grid Brazil Power Participações
Specialized Bicycles
Torrent do Brasil
Chiesi Farmaceutica
Knoell Germany
Glenmark Farmaceutica
Telefonica Digital
Annex Consultoria / BIT4B – Soluções em Tecnologia da Informação e Consultoria Empresarial
Premier Pet
China Unicom
Work highlights
- Advised Bunge Alimentos on the acquisition of a minority stake in Agrofel.
Mundie e Advogados
Mundie e Advogados stands out for its corporate expertise in highly regulated sectors, drawing on the firm's well-known strength in administrative law and regulatory matters. Eduardo Zobaran and Rodolpho Protasio co-head the practice, which includes Ana Cristina Moraes and Patricia Nakahara, whose expertise spans corporate, civil and IP law.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Glencore
Fleetcor Technologies and affiliates (including CTF Technologies do Brasil)
Fidelity National Services
Equifax
Kinea Private Equity Investimentos
Cervejarias Kaiser Brasil (Heineken)
Altra Motion
Portobello
Multilog
Tim Celular
BTG Pactual
Luxxotica
Tradegar Corporation
Gávea Investimentos
Aegea Saneamento e Participações
Vibra Agroindustrial
Work highlights
- Advised Vibra Agroindustrial on the investment by Tyson Foods in the food business of Vibra Agroindustrial after the segregation of Vibra’s genetic segment by means of a spin-off.
Peixoto e Cury Advogados
The 'committed' team at Peixoto e Cury Advogados is 'focused on fast and practical solutions'. Its lawyers draw on previous experience in international law firms and advise a mixed client base of multinational and local companies, including family-owned businesses, in mid-market deals. Key names include Renato de Oliveira Valença, 'fast thinker' Rafael Villac Vicente de Carvalho and José Ricardo de Bastos Martins, who 'stands out for his large experience'.
Practice head(s):
José Ricardo de Bastos Martins; Rafael Villac Vicente de Carvalho
Testimonials
‘Peixoto e Cury have been extremely professional. They have a very good competence in supporting M&A process both in negotiation and contracts matters, as for fiscal and taxes issues.‘
‘Peixoto e Cury is a traditional law firm in Brazil, with several decades of experience. They are extremely reliable and competent. The comparison with other firms relies on the availability they have to work for us on weekends, holidays, nights, just because they know our pain and needs. They are legal team’s outside partners.‘
‘Rafael Villac was excellent on negotiation and contracts matters.‘
‘José Ricardo stands out for his extensive experience, deep understanding of the advertising market and due to the fact that he clearly feels anguished with clients’ problems.‘
‘Renato Valença stands out for his deep understanding of the advertising market. Rafael Villac stands out for his capacity to understand deeply clients’ needs beyond legal practice, but also commercial matters, accounting matters and even personal matters involved in some issues or situations.‘
‘Individuals are well aware of their areas of action and each one is also prepared to take on great negotiations and produce excellent results for their clients. I would like to highlight the partner Dr José Alcides Montes Filho as tireless and brilliant at the service of his partners and customers.‘
‘Committed, focused on fast and practical solutions, available.‘
‘Rafael Villac Vicente de Carvalho – a fast thinker, his broad legal knowledge and industry understanding helps to safeguard the best interests of the stakeholders of our company.‘
Key clients
AEL Sistemas
Allfood Importação, Indústria e Comércio
American Air Filter Brasil
Arkema Química
Avon
Bbrands Holding Participações
Cebrace Cristal Plano (NSG Group)
Cecil – Laminação de Metais
China Three Gorges Corp – CTG Brasil
Cosin Consulting
CServices Processamento de Dados
Cine Cinematógrafica
Elbit Systems
FCB Brasil Publicidade
HY Cite
Kelly Services
Knauf Do Brasil
Multicel Pigmentos
McCann Erickson Publicidade (IPG Group)
Mcassab
Momentum Comunicação (IPG Group)
Mullen Lowe Publicidade (IPG Group)
MSA do Brasil Equipamentos e Instrumentos Segurança
Owens-Illinois do Brasil Indústria e Comércio
Pilkington Brasil
Sparkinc Mídia de Influência
The Interpublic Group of Companies
thyssenkrupp Brasil
Vivante
Vleaf Energia e Engenharia
Work highlights
- Advised Motus Serviços and the majority shareholders in the acquisition of the shares of a minority shareholder.
Pereira Neto | Macedo
Pereira Neto | Macedo's corporate department works with energy, tech and agribusiness companies as well as private equity funds and asset management firms. The firm's competition and antitrust expertise is a particular draw. In internal developments, Vinícius Mancini Guedes was promoted to partner in August 2019; other partners to note include Ricardo Ferreira de Macedo and Mônica Figueiredo de Camargo Arruda.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Trybe
Usina de Açúcar Santa Terezinha
Central Paranaense de Logística (CPL)
Ara Vartanian Jewelry
Arcos Dourados Comércio De Alimentos Ltda. (Mcdonald’s)
CPA Trading
Paraná Operações Portuárias
Álcool do Paraná Terminal Portuário
Jus Capital Gestão de Recursos
Energisa
Work highlights
- Assisted Telecom with an investment made by Brasil Digital Telecomunicações, by which it became holder of 50% of the company’s share capital.
Rayes & Fagundes Advogados Associados
The corporate department at Rayes & Fagundes Advogados Associados acts for companies which are leaders in their respective fields, including pharma and technology, advising on corporate restructurings, M&A and joint ventures. It is notable for its experience in cross-border deals, including those involving the US, UK, Germany, Italy and China. Fabiana Rodriques da Fonseca and Paulo Talarico lead the team. Associate Isadora de Araujo Frade is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Wonderful work regionally and globally.‘
‘Trust in the way they deliver the information. Quick responses and a full team dedicated to the project.‘
‘They are extremely professional and provide good advice in a very efficient manner.‘
‘Paulo Talarico is always available and will assist you to get the job done. He understands the needs of in-house counsel, and is always seeking to do better.‘
‘Isadora Frade, senior associate, is very talented and extremely professional.’
Key clients
IBM Brasil
Nokia Solutions and Networks do Brasil Telecomunicações
Alphaland Real Estate Administração de Bens (Sabis Group)
Invaio Sciences
SPIC Brasil Energia Participações
Leão Alimentos e Bebidas (Coca-Cola Group)
Hendrix Genetics
Banco Indusval & Partners
Boehringer Ingelheim do Brasil
MSX International
Work highlights
- Assisted De Saint Seigne Desenvolvimento de Negócios with an extensive spin-off process involving one of its former joint ventures.
Siqueira Castro – Advogados
Carlos Fernando Siqueira Castro and Guilherme Dantas head the team at Siqueira Castro – Advogados, which operates from a broad network of offices across Brazil. It advises companies from a wide range of industries on due diligence, M&A processes and restructurings. Leonardo Cotta Pereira and Sérgio Ricardo Fogolin often take lead roles on the department's key transactions. In January 2021, consumer law specialist Flávia da Conceição Gomes was promoted to partner.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Duratex
Fraport (Frankfurt Airport Services Worldwide)
Taj, société d’avocats (Deloitte Legal)
Work highlights
- Assisted Duratex with the acquisition of 100% of the shares of the companies Cecrisa Revestimentos Cerâmicos and Cerâmica Portinari.
Sperling Advogados
Mid-sized multinational companies turn to Sperling Advogados for advice and assistance in M&A, non-transactional corporate matters and corporate disputes. The team, which provides 'exceptional legal services', is led by 'top-notch attorney' Marcio Sperling, and Felipe Garcia de Souza, who 'can always be counted on to advise on a good way forward and to diligently work to implement the plan'.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Sperling proactively looks after our corporate needs and we can always count on them to do what they say, when they say they will do it, and to follow up to make sure all of the loose threads get attended to.’
‘High international business experience. Always reachable. High standards.’
‘Marcio Sperling gives you a clear legal view and answers. Which do work in the practice as well.’
‘Felipe Garcia de Souza can always be counted on to advise on a good way forward and to diligently work to implement the plan. Work is seamlessly delegated to the correct level.’
‘I have worked with a number of law firms in Brazil over the years and Sperling Advogados by far stands out as an exceptional law firm. The law firm really partners with our company, not only providing the appropriate level of exceptional legal services, but also by really acting as a business and strategic partner. I know that when I have an issue, Sperling is going to be very responsive and give me practical advice.’
‘I work closely with Marcio Sperling, a top-notch attorney and among the best that I have worked with not only in Brazil, but globally. He really is client focused and partners well with me as well as our business team in Brazil.‘
Key clients
American VanguardCorporation
Henniges Automotive Sealing Systems Brasil
Schenck Process Equipamentos Industriais
Osram
Fundação Voith
Delphi Technologies
Helm
Hackforth
Bequisa Indústria Química do Brasil
Hatch
Work highlights
- Advised Osram on the termination of its Brazilian joint venture with Philips Lighting Holding.
Andrade, Foz, Hypolito e Medicis Advogados
Denise Hypolito Passaro heads the corporate department at Andrade, Foz, Hypolito e Medicis Advogados, with other key names including Carolina Moura Foz and Lira Padovan. The team provides day-to-day corporate support to its clients, which include Brazilian and international companies, as well as advising on corporate transactions.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
4×4 Capital
Alper Seguros
Avenues: The World School
Bahema Educação
BR Partners
Brazil Senior Living
Camino Education
Closure Systems International
Cofco Group
JSL
Keller Tecnogeo Fundações
Kemira Chemicals
Lactalis do Brasil
Linklaters
Logbras Participações e Desenvolvimento Logístico
Lucite International
Movida Participações
Noble Group
Regina Festas
Sequoia Logística e Transportes
Solvi Group
Sonaca Group
Tishman Speyer Group
VR Group
BK&Partners
BK&Partners was established by former lawyers at Benetti, Gentile, Ruivo, Advogados in 2020. The team's strong experience and active involvement in M&A belies its small size; work handled at the previous firm included advising MEC3 do Brasil on the acquisition of Blending Indústria e Comércio, a Brazilian family business which owns the Blend Coberturas brand. Eduardo Benetti and associate Pedro Giammarino are the key contacts.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
QMS Capital
Traive
AlmavivA Group
Frango Gonzalez Group
Mercabenco
Optima Group (Casa Optima)
Stefanini Group
Bonduelle do Brasil
Let’s Code
Advanta
Work highlights
- Advised MEC3 do Brasil on the acquisition of the totality of the corporate stake of Blend Coberturas, a key player in its market.
Bocater, Camargo, Costa e Silva, Rodrigues Advogados
Noted for its 'considerable practical experience in dealing with corporate matters', Bocater, Camargo, Costa e Silva, Rodrigues Advogados fields a sizeable team and is equipped to advise on M&A as well as non-transactional corporate matters. The sizeable team is based primarily in Rio de Janeiro, although the firm has also been growing its presence in São Paulo. Founding partners Maria Isabel Bocater and Francisco da Costa e Silva have significant experience in corporate and capital markets deals.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘A qualified team with good experience in due diligence and in the preparation of agreements and contracts. They demonstrate a constructive stance in the face of problems but are very diligent in showing risks and taking firm positions in the face of risks that they judge too many.‘
‘The notable specialisation of the BCCS office comes from its considerable practical experience in dealing with corporate matters and from its performance in important transactions in the Brazilian market.‘
‘Regarding its technical staff, BCCS has a team of lawyers trained in different areas and with extensive experience and knowledge in their field.‘
Key clients
Embraer
Petrobras
BR Distribuidora
Bombril
Copersucar
Banco Fator
Fator Corretora de Valores
BTG Pactual
Neoenergia
Usiminas
Globonet Cabos Submarinos
Work highlights
- Advised Betafarma on the acquisition of all the quotas of a cosmetics company.
DDSA - De Luca, Derenusson, Schuttoff e Azevedo Advogados
In the field of corporate and commercial law and M&A, DDSA - De Luca, Derenusson, Schuttoff e Azevedo Advogados balances a varied workload, with recent work spanning sales, acquisitions, mergers, restructurings, licensing and contractual matters. João Claudio De Luca Junior and Guilherme Filardi are the practice heads.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Excellent team, agreeable to work and interact with. Both the positive dynamics and the complementarity throughout the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the DDSA team are clearly perceptible which results in an all encompassing competence which their clients, including myself, fully benefit from.‘
‘Their extensive experience from the field of helping foreign investors in tailoring legal structures to their needs for their future operations is highly appreciated and adds value to their clients’ businesses.’
‘I wish to mention in particular the following DDSA professionals as deserving of very high notes in their respective field of expertise: João Claudio De Luca Junior, Flavia Bailoni Marcilio Barbosa, Guilherme Filardi.’
Key clients
Cencosud
Granarolo
Idemia do Brasil Soluções de Serviços de Tecnologia
Evertec Group
Sodecia
TGM Indústria e Comércio de Turbinas e Transmissões
Manaus Taxi Aereo
DPZ Partners
Trescal Group
G+D Mobile Security
Work highlights
- Advised the owners of MAP Linhas Aereas on the sale of MAP to Passaredo Linhas Aereas.
Derraik & Menezes
Derraik & Menezes is well known in venture capital, where it has established a strong reputation and handles a high volume of work, acting for Brazilian and international venture capital and private equity firms. Founding partner Rodrigo Menezes has experience in transactions across a broad range of industries, including e-commerce, cosmetics, healthcare, technology and telecoms. Juliene Piniano and Pedro Ferreira were promoted to partner in December 2019.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Abanzai Representações (Sapore)
Algar
Astella Investimentos, Assessoria, Gestão e Participações
BC2 Construtora e Infraestrutura
Brinks
DNA Capital
Dengo do Brasil
Domo Invest
Edge Performance Ltd. (Potencia Ventures)
FUNCEF
Gesto Saúde
Hotmart Technology
Lightstone Fund (LGT)
Magazine Luiza
Nobli Tecnologia e Serviços Financeiros (Nobli)
Qualcomm Ventures
RD Gestão de Sistemas (ResultadosDigitais)
Solides Tecnologia
SP Ventures
Vox Capital Consultoria e Assessoria
Wayra (Telefonica)
Work highlights
- Represented Lightstone Fund in its $80m investment in International Logistics Holding (CargoX).
Fialho Salles Advogados
Fialho Salles Advogados has traditional strength in Belo Horizonte but has also significantly increased its presence in São Paulo, where Luciano Fialho is based. Cross-border work is a regular feature for the corporate and M&A team, which acts for buyers, sellers and investors. Active associates in the São Paulo office include Bárbara Monduzzi and Renzo Lima.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The Fialho Salles team is proactive and knowledgeable in corporate services.‘
‘It has been a pleasure to work with the professionals of the Fialho Salles office. The lawyers André, Alice, Débora and Fernanda have well known competence to conduct the necessary work in the corporate and litigation areas.‘
Key clients
Inspira Mudança Participações
Rio Branco Alimentos
CEI – Companhia Energética
Magnesita Refratários
Construtora Quebec
VLI
Patologia Clínica São Marcos
Canopus Holding
Snef Brasil
Phosfaz Mineração
Vinci Energies do Brasil
Aliança Geração de Energia
Barbosa Mello Participações e Investimentos
Pharma e-connection
Rio Claro Mineração
Sunew Filmes Fotovoltaicos Impressos
Axxiom Solucoes Tecnologicas
BNDES – Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social
Embaré Indústrias Alimentícias
Work highlights
- Advised Fengro Industries on its acquisition of Dusolo Mineração.
Graça Couto, Sequerra, Levitinas, Bicudo, Leal & Abby Advogados
The 'committed, knowledgeable and experienced' team at Graça Couto, Sequerra, Levitinas, Bicudo, Leal & Abby Advogados has experience in M&A across numerous industries; its recent caseload includes pharma, technology and real estate-sector transactions. Much of its work is cross-border in nature, involving the US, China and Europe. Practice head Natalie Alberdi Sequerra and senior associate Renato Ferreira dos Santos are the key contacts.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Extremely available and high level of knowledge. Good alignment in terms of deal flow. Almost complete firm in terms of M&A support capabilities.’
‘Graça Couto and Sequerra’s reputations, academic background and network gives me confidence on decision making and execution.‘
‘Natalie Sequerra: very senior, knowledgeable and exceptional availability, Renato Ferreira: outstanding team player and high understanding of Brazilian law.‘
‘Committed, knowledgeable and experienced, the team’s complementary skills provide solutions to complex structures.’
Key clients
Asterion Industrial Partners (Digital Data Centre Bidco)
Capgemini Brasil
Dorel Industries
Canopy Latam Corporation
Rothschild & Co Brazil
Blanver Farmoquímica e Farmacêutica
Anastacio Empreendimentos Imobiliários e Participações
VPower Group
Grupo Jardim da Saudade
China-Africa Development Fund (CAD Fund)
Work highlights
- Assisted Asterion Industrial Partners in the acquisition of 11 data centres from Teléfonica for €550m.
Kestener, Granja & Vieira Advogados
Founding partner Fabio Alonso Vieira heads the corporate, M&A and contracts department at Kestener, Granja & Vieira Advogados, which is frequently sought out for assistance in corporate restructurings and regarding joint ventures. The team also has a regular stable of clients - including healthcare, life sciences and technology companies - which it advises on day-to-day corporate matters.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘A very good team that works hard and for a fair fee, considering their very good knowledge of commercial matters and M&A.‘
‘For me, the availability and transparency of the partner Fabio Vieira is a differential. He also has a huge experience in M&A matters in the industry sector which is very important for me.‘
‘The team provide very good support and explanation regarding the subject. In order to make easy the comprehension of the facts and circumstances regarding the contract, they always provide an analogy and stressed the point with many examples until everyone was comfortable. In the negotiations, they led us to make a good agreement mitigating the common risks of this situation.’
‘Fabio, the senior partner, demonstrated a strong knowledge of the subject and great ability to conduce the negotiation helping to adjust the conflicts.‘
Key clients
Perrigo Goup
Produtos Roche Químicos e Farmacéuticos
Kellogg Brasil
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals
Continental
Intercos
Zodias Produtos Farmacéuticos
Colfax Corporation
CBRE Group
Graphisoft Group
Work highlights
- Assisting the shareholders of marketing agency Score Group on the implementation of a joint venture with BFerraz.
Loeser e Hadad Advogados
Founded in 1989, business law firm Loeser e Hadad Advogados has a particular focus on corporate law and transactions, acting for a range of domestic and international companies. Name partner Enrique Tello Hadad coordinates the firm's international transactions group and has experience in deals in a broad range of sectors; managing partner Richard Blanchet leads the M&A and corporate governance group. At the associate level, Fernanda Nakada focuses on corporate governance, compliance and corporate law.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Sabó
Ube
Pepsico
Lincoln Eletric
Grupo GPS
IBRATEC
Cosmocel
Allseas
Leaderup
Farma Service
Work highlights
- Advised Bayer on a major acquisition in the agribusiness sector, which vastly increased its market share globally in this segment.
Melcheds - Mello e Rached Advogados
Melcheds - Mello e Rached Advogados has established an impressive corporate and M&A practice, with an emphasis on family businesses and the middle market. It frequently represents sellers in corporate transactions, though it has also recently expanded its buy-side practice. Fernanda Passos and founding partner Rodrigo Mello are the practice heads.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Laureate International Universities
New Energies Investimentos e Participações / Steelcons Empreiteira Construção Civil
UBS Bank
Eurofarma Laboratórios
Sungrow do Brasil Representação comercial, Instalação e Manutenção de Equipamentos
Phenom Capital Group
Metso Brasil Indústrias e Comércios
Fundo de Investimento em Participações Felix Multiestratégia
Fadel | Fadel Transportes
EVO W12 Brasil
Seguritech Privada
Timbro Group
Khyron Life Sciences
Work highlights
- Advised Sandin Desenvolvimento Imobiliário on the acquisition of a real estate company in the state of São Paulo.
Montgomery & Associados
Montgomery & Associados fields a multi-disciplinary team and acts for international companies in the corporate and commercial sphere. In addition to its work with established clients, the team was recently instructed by several new clients in the telecoms, financial services and aviation sectors. Practice head Neil Montgomery and experienced corporate and contract law partner Helena Penteado Moraes Calderano are the key names.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Iris Wordwide
Lockton Brasil Consultoria e Corretora de Seguros
Bookwire Brazil Distribuição de Livros Digitais
WH Smith Travel
Aerolineas Argentinas
ARINC
DHR International
Arrow ECS Brasil Distribuidora
Harmonic
South African Airways
Ashley Industrial Moulding
GT Technologies
Toradex
FB Líneas Aéreas
Virgin Atlantic Airways
Kennametal
Neusoft Medical Systems (Brazil)
Citric Systems
ASG do Brasil Tecnologia da Informação
Kaneka South America Representações
Oil Spill Response
Fonyou Telecom
Bank of America
Work highlights
- Assisting HKW in winding down its Brazilian subsidiary, which has included the review of its outstanding liabilities and how to resolve them.
Navarro Advogados
Large, mid-sized and family businesses turn to Navarro Advogados for assistance in corporate transactions and general corporate matters. Elvis Camargo de Brong Mattar is the name to note.
Neiva Barros & Figueiró, Sociedade de Advogados
Benefiting from its association with international firm Garrigues, Neiva Barros & Figueiró, Sociedade de Advogados is regularly instructed in cross-border corporate transactions, particularly deals involving Brazil and Portugal / Spain. Marcela Figueiró's practice spans corporate, infrastructure, projects and finance; Tomás Neiva is well versed in M&A, venture capital, restructurings, joint ventures and commercial contracts.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Ufinet
Grupo Energía Bogotá
EDP Energias do Brasil Group
El Ciruelo
One Peak Partners
Hierros Añon
ProA Capital
Work highlights
- Advised Spain-based company El Ciruelo as buyer of grape producer Labrunier and its trading company Bravis (including subsidiaries in Brazil and the Netherlands), from Grupo JD.
Nogueira, Elias, Laskowski & Matias Advogados
Nogueira, Elias, Laskowski & Matias Advogados' Eduardo Felipe Matias has established a strong name in the field of social impact and sustainability, and often advises environmental and social impact businesses. Matias also leads the firm's corporate department, which handles a broad range of corporate, commercial and finance matters.
Practice head(s):
Work highlights
- Advises a client in the healthcare sector on a joint venture.
PGLaw
PGLaw is 'great on the differences of Brazilian and foreign corporate law in order to help the executives and shareholders navigate between them'. The firm acts for a number of foreign and Brazilian clients in domestic and multi-jurisdictional deals, often working alongside well-known international law firms. Carlos Portugal Gouvêa is the practice head.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘PGLaw perform great services on the articles of incorporation and M&A agreements.’
‘They have very good expertise in corporate law, they are great on the differences of Brazilian and foreign corporate law in order to help the executives and shareholders navigate between them. They help with international contracts and the requirements so as to be effective in Brazil – such as before the Brazilian Central Bank, Brazilian Federal Revenue Department.‘
‘All the PGLaw lawyers have good command of the professional legal English language which is scarce in Brazil at the level of international business, international contracts, and foreign documentation. They take good care of the details to suggest the best clauses and rules to reach the legal requirements on both sides of the contracts.‘
Key clients
Quest Software
SonicWall Software
Orion Engineered Carbons
Cardpay Holding
Iguá Saneamento
Cerdia Brasil Indústria e Comércio
Centro de Autoria e Cultura (Letrus)
Brandileone & Lombardi Participações
Agroflorestal Camacan Preservação Ambiental
Reserva Serra Bonita
Ormuco
Best Berry Alimentos Naturais
Berry Plastics
Work highlights
- Acted for Quest Software on its sale to a San Francisco-based private equity fund and New York-based hedge fund.
RZ Advogados
RZ Advogados is equipped to advise on sell-side and buy-side M&A, joint ventures, corporate restructurings and reorganisations. The firm is particularly active in the agribusiness, ports and automotive industries, though its client base extends beyond these sectors. Mauricio Jun Higashino leads the corporate and M&A team, which also includes Christian de Lima Ramos.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
S3B Fundo de Investimento em Participações
PAF Fundo de Investimento em Participações Multiestratégia – Investimento no Exterior
LOTS Latin America Logística e Transportes
Scania Latin America
J Demito Administração e Participações
Novaprint
Kanematsu Corporation
Fundo de Investimento em Participações em Infraestrutura – Anessa
Latin America Logística e Transportes
DTA Engenharia
SMRC Fabricação e Comércio de Produtos Automotivos do Brasil
Grupo Sion Brasil
Humberg Agribrasil Comércio e Exportação de Grãos
Instituto Presbiteriano Mackenzie
Mega-Logística Serviços Portuários e Transportes
QAD
Work highlights
- Provided advice to S3B Fundo de Investimento em Participações in the negotiation of an M&A transaction involving a new investor in Sinagro Produtos Agropecuários.
Schmidt, Valois, Miranda, Ferreira & Agel Advogados
Schmidt, Valois, Miranda, Ferreira & Agel Advogados' oil and gas expertise is a distinguishing feature, and the team is often engaged in corporate transactions involving energy and oil and gas companies and their assets. Fittingly, the team is based in Rio de Janeiro, with key practitioners including Paulo Valois Pires, Rogério Sobral de Miranda and 'experienced lawyer' Eduardo Cirne Lima, who is noted for his 'high ethical standards'.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Schmidt, Valois, Miranda, Ferreira & Agel (‘SVMFA’) is recognized for its creativity in examining legal issues and for the ethics and quality in providing its services. Corporate and M&A, as all the other practice areas in the firm is fully dedicate to understand the client’s needs considering all aspects of the client’s core business and the particularity of each deal.‘
‘Eduardo Cirne-Lima, partner of SVMFA, is an experienced lawyer in Corporate Law and in M&A transactions. Eduardo is someone with high ethical standards and is always available and concerned to understand the client’s needs.‘
Key clients
BHP Petroleum
BCH Energy
Lankhorst Euronete
SoEnergy
Nansen
ME Elecmetal
GearBulk
Repsol Sinopec
Petronas Group
IBV Petróleo do Brasil
Grupo TideWater
Forum
Seacrest
Azibras
Tullow
Petrocean
Chariot Brasil Petróleo e Gás
Enerflex Energia
Alcatel Submarine Networks Brazil
BP Global Investment
Petrocean
Total Safety
Rignet
Brunel Energy Serviços
Coloplast do Brasil
IFF Essências e Fragrâncias
Paramount
Work highlights
- Provided legal assistance to Enerflex Energia in the acquisition of 65% of the quotas of VAG-FLEX Gás, a special purpose company created to develop a gas processing project in the State of Rio de Janeiro.
Souto Correa Advogados
Many of Souto Correa Advogados' corporate law experts are based in Porto Alegre, although the firm also has M&A lawyers in the São Paulo office; names to note include Clarissa Yokomizo and Vinícius Fadanelli. The sizeable cross-office team handles a broad range of corporate work, from M&A to day-to-day corporate and governance matters. Fernanda Girardi Tavares and Gilberto Deon Corrêa Júnior are the practice heads.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Souto Correa’s team is able to provide a pragmatic approach on complex business matters. Their ability to handle those matters across several fields of law make them unique.’
‘Raquel Stein and Alice Kessler. Both of them provide an outstanding service. Their readiness to reply to the business needs make them stand out of the crowd.’
‘Clarissa Yokomizo has been precise and quick to answer my queries and the due diligence has been efficient. She is sophisticated in proposing legal solutions and preparing the definitive documents.’
Key clients
SLC
Grings Participações
Ecovix
GV Energy
LeNovo
Fras-LE
Grupo GKN
PERFIN
Arezzo
Samsung
Work highlights
- Advised SLC Participações on the acquisition of 100% of the shares held by Erasmo Carlos Barristella in Lavoro Máquinas Agrícolas.
Themudo Lessa Advogados
Transactional boutique Themudo Lessa Advogados has a busy M&A practice, where it is regularly instructed by buyers and sellers, and also advises clients on joint ventures, commercial agreements and corporate governance. The already sizeable team is led by Rogério Cruz Themudo Lessa and Marcos Themudo Lessa and was further bolstered by the arrival of Fernanda Mattar Mesquita from Lembi Advogados in September 2019.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Via Varejo
Klabin
Totvs
Starboard Restructuring Partners
Geo Energética
Banco Bradesco BBI
Solvi
CPFL Renováveis
GOL Linhas Aéreas
Paranapanema
Azul Linhas Aéreas
Work highlights
- Advised Geo Energética on the formation of a joint venture with Raízen for the development of greenfield biogas projects and energy production.
Vaz, Buranello, Shingaki e Oioli Advogados
Vaz, Buranello, Shingaki e Oioli Advogados assists clients in all stages of M&A transactions and joint ventures, and has experience in insurance, agribusiness, energy and banking-sector deals, among others. Amanda Rosa Visentini focuses on corporate transactions and corporate governance, while founding partner Erik Oioli's practice encompasses capital markets, banking, corporate law and M&A.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Banco BMG
BMG Participações
Work highlights
- Advised Banco BMG on the acquisition of 65% of a company specialised in e-payment solutions.
Vidigal Neto Advogados
Under the leadership of Claudio Gomez, Vidigal Neto Advogados acts for buyers, sellers and investors in domestic and cross-border transactions, including deals involving distressed assets. The team has seen some significant changes, including the departure of former name partner Marcelo Perlman, who left to establish Perlman Mediation and Legal Strategies. Rafael Setoguti Julio Pereira and Vinícius Azambuja de Oliveira are key associates in the team.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
R2C Gestora de Investimentos
Notre Dame Intemérdica Saúde
Banco Paulista
Mover Participações
Vetorial Mineração
Construtora Norberto Odebrecht
Buser Brasil Tecnologia
Canary Management
Kawa Capital Management
Bemol
Sul Brasil Securitizadora
Fundação Carlos Chagas
S&P Dow Jones Indices
Adtalem Educacional do Brasil
Treecorp Partners Gestora
Aura Minerals
Work highlights
- Advising Notre Dame Intermédica Saúde on the acquisition of a 100% equity interest in Mediplan.
Viseu Advogados
From its offices in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Viseu Advogados assists clients in mid-market deals in the oil and gas, financial services, technology and cosmetics sectors. Paulo Bardella Caparelli and Manoel Ignácio Torres Monteiro head the department, which also dedicates a significant amount of time to non-transactional corporate and commercial consultancy.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Colégio Catamarã
Elevate Hong Kong Holding
Awa Minerações
Cyrela
Coty
Flight Tour
Panasonic do Brasil
Work highlights
- Advises Coty business group on various corporate matters.
Wongtschowski & Zanotta Advogados
Mid-market M&A is a mainstay at Wongtschowski & Zanotta Advogados, which has recently advised on transactions in the ports, education and agribusiness sectors, among others. Names to note include founding partner Alexandre Zanotta; Tiago Bonatti Peres, who has significant experience in domestic and cross-border M&A and private equity deals; and senior associates Luiza Ozores Igel and Carolina de Mattos Pacheco.
Practice head(s):
Alexandre Zanotta; Tiago Bonatti Peres; Domingos Fernando Refinetti
Key clients
Atlântica Hotels
Cargill Agrícola
Deicmar Armazenagem e Distribuição
Embu Engenharia e Comércio
FADEP
Falcon Distribuição, Armazenamento e Transportes
Gerdau
GP Investimentos
Grupo Guararapes
Grupo Libra
Hypera
IdenGene
Ifood.com Agência de Restaurantes Online
Iron Mountain
Libercon Engenharia
Libra Terminal Rio (in judicial recovery)
Odebrecht Realizações Imobiliárias
PB Construções
Polo Films Indústria e Comércio
Distribuidora de Autopeças Rondobras
Sadenco Sul-Americana de Engenharia
Solaris Equipamentos e Serviços
TAG Investimentos
T-Grão Cargo Terminal de Graneis
Voice Script International
4Bio Medicamentos
Work highlights
- Advised Deicmar Armazenagem e Distribuição on the acquisition of 100% of the shares of Deicmar by Bandeirantes.