Hall Of Fame

Firms To Watch: Banking, finance and capital markets

The banking and finance team at Taylor Wessing Czech Republic advises clients on real estate and project finance, acquisition and corporate financing, regulatory issues, and payment services, working largely for multinational corporations. Jakub Adam leads the team.

Banking, finance and capital markets in Czech Republic

Allen & Overy

The banking, finance and international capital markets team at Allen & Overy advises on all types of financing, including acquisition finance, real estate finance, export finance, project finance, asset finance, and general lending, assisting both local and international financial institutions. In addition to transactions, the team is highly active in financial regulatory and litigious matters. The client roster spans banks and financial institutions, as well as government bodies; the team regularly advises on the amendment of Czech legislation and creation of market standards. Petr Vybiral leads the team, with experience across the full spectrum of banking and capital markets work. Since publication, Petra Myšáková left the firm.

Practice head(s):

Petr Vybiral


Other key lawyers:

Pavel Příhoda; David Bujgl


Testimonials

‘Petr Vybiral is organised, reasonable, tough when needed, able to find solutions, commercial, very experienced, and able to apply such experience.’

‘The team takes a pragmatic and commercial approach. They are efficient, flexible, and responsive.’

‘The team is business-oriented and commercial, pushing deals forward, and is able to deal with complicated and complex matters.’

Key clients

Komerční banka, a.s.


Česká spořitelna, a.s.


UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia, a.s.


Československá obchodní banka, a. s.


Citibank


Czech Gas Networks Investments S.à r.l


J.P. Morgan SE


Citigroup Global Markets Europe AG


WOOD & Company Financial Services, a.s.


SKODA TRANSPORTATION, a.s.


Work highlights


  • Advised a club of banks led by Československá obchodní banka, Komerční banka and BNP Paribas on a $1.5bn facility for Škoda Transportation and its subsidiaries in the Czech Republic and Finland.
  • Advised Česká spořitelna and UniCredit Bank on the refinancing of Nej.cz and the financing of an acquisition of 100% of the shares in SMART Comp. by Nej.cz.
  • Advised Czech Gas Networks Investments on its first green issuance and placement of €500m green notes with investors on international capital markets.

Baker & McKenzie s.r.o., advokátní kancelář

The banking, finance and capital markets practice at Baker & McKenzie s.r.o., advokátní kancelář provides advice on banking and financial products, with a focus on acquisition, project, and real estate finance. Additionally, the team frequently works on restructuring, recovery, and distressed debt mandates. The group works on both domestic and cross-border financing mandates, with particular involvement in Slovakia, and is able to use the expertise of the firm’s international network. The capital markets side of the practice has expertise in equity securities offerings, compliance, public company M&A, financial regulation, and related litigation. Libor Basl is the head of the team, advising clients on all forms of financing, and a range of capital markets and regulatory issues.

Practice head(s):

Libor Basl


Other key lawyers:

Petr Vojtěch


Testimonials

‘The team is absolutely reliable, never compromises in meeting deadlines and, what is similarly important for a client and not always the case with other law firms, is that it usually sticks to its fee caps so that one does not have to spend time discussing fee increases.’

‘Apart from Libor Basl, also Petr Vojtěch is a promising attorney who is nice to work with and provides excellent service while on a transaction.’

‘Libor Basl and Petr Vojtěch are assets to the team. They are client-oriented, and best in commercial knowledge on the market.’

Key clients

4finance S.A.


Aetos a.s. / Kofola Group


Association of Global Custodians


Aures Holdings a.s. – AAA Auto group


Česká spořitelna, a.s.


Československá obchodní banka a. s. (ČSOB) / KBC Bank NV


Citibank Europe plc


Commerzbank AG


Crestyl Group


Credit Suisse AG


Energetický a průmyslový holding, a.s. (EPH)


Erste Group Bank AG


Fortuna Entertainment Group


ING Belgium NV/SA


Kofola Československo a.s.


Komerční banka, a.s.


Moulins de Kleinbettingen S.A.


NH HOTEL GROUP, S.A.


PFNonwovens Holding


PKN Orlen


Raiffeisenbank a.s.


RC EUROPE Group


Silver Tower


ThomasLloyd


UniCredit Bank Czech Republic


Worldline SA/NV


Work highlights


  • Advising a club of banks on the Kč4.575bn financing of Sportisimo.
  • Advised a club of banks on the financing of the acquisition of AGROZET České Budějovice by GES group.
  • Advised a club of banks on the €72.6m refinancing of existing indebtedness and working capital financing to be provided to TRIBLAN and DAKO-CZ.

Dentons

The banking, finance and capital markets team at Dentons has an experienced transactional offering covering all main financing areas, advising corporate borrowers and banking clients. In particular, the team acts on syndicated, corporate lending, and asset-based lending, and provides real estate financing expertise. The team also possesses strong regulatory expertise and a wealth of industry-specific knowledge. Jiří Tomola and Daniel Hurych jointly lead the team; the former has expertise in advising banks and borrowers on cross-border financing mandates, while the latter advises numerous major Czech banks with in-depth knowledge of all aspects of bank lending. Counsel Jan Hrivnák is also noted.


Practice head(s):

Jiří Tomola; Daniel Hurych


Other key lawyers:

Martin Manduľák; Jan Hrivnák


Testimonials

‘Dentons team is probably the strongest one in the banking and finance area in the Czech market. They are very visible on a large number of transactions and seem to be generally acceptable to almost all market participants including banks.’

‘Very long-term experience with the local team, a significant presence on the market and participates on most of the major transactions. The team is highly professional.’

‘Professional approach, fast delivery, willingness to help at any time, international cooperation in trans-national transactions, great cloud service for delivering documents.’

‘Daniel Hurych is highly professional, reliable, and fair. Martin Manduľák is a very skillful, ambitious professional.’

‘Jan Hrivnák is clearly one of the rising stars among the banking and finance lawyers with sharp technical knowledge and a great deal of transactional experience already. He is constructive, always engaged and attentive.’

‘Jan Hrivnák has developed over the years into a very reliable and nice-to-work-with lawyer, whom you like to have on a transaction.’

‘I have been working mainly with Daniel Hurych and Jan Hrivnák. I enjoy working with them and feel in safe hands. I do not hesitate to entrust them with a matter of the highest complexity.’

Key clients

Česká spořitelna (ERSTE)


Komerční banka (Société Générale)


UniCredit Bank


Československá obchodní banka (KBC)


Raiffeisenbank


Czech Export Bank


CPI Property Group


R2G


Smartwings


Rockaway Capital (including Invia Group)


Sev.en Energy


Crestyl


Vestar/Kings’ Casino Group


Natland


Mezzanine Capital


HSBC Bank


Banka Creditas


Všeobecná úverová banka


CITIBANK EUROPE


BNP Paribas


Work highlights


  • Advised CPI Property Group on a €2.5bn loan facility to finance its takeover offer for all outstanding shares and convertible bonds of IMMOFINANZ, and a €1.25bn loan facility to help finance its takeover offer for all outstanding shares for S IMMO.
  • Advised ERSTE Group Bank on comprehensive multijurisdictional refinancing of the Tristone Flowtech Group.
  • Advising on the comprehensive refinancing of PFNonwovens Group with a club of international and Czech banks including BNP Paribas, Czech Export Bank, Česká spořitelna, Československá obchodní banka, HSBC Corporation, Komerční banka.

Glatzová & Co., s.r.o.

The banking, finance and capital markets team at Glatzová & Co., s.r.o. advises both borrowers and lenders on domestic and cross-border financial transactions, as well as covering all areas of financial services regulation.  The team also regularly represents clients in administrative proceedings before the Czech National Bank. Acquisition and project financing, and syndicate and consumer loans are additionally strengths of the team. The group is noted for its strong links with Slovakia, and is seen as a go-to for firms seeking advice on both domestic and Slovakian law. Libor Němec and Martin Dančišin jointly lead the team; the former's broad workload spans financial market regulation, transactional advice, and dispute resolution.

Practice head(s):

Libor Němec; Martin Dančišin


Other key lawyers:

Jarmila Tornová


Testimonials

‘Characteristics of the team are that they are flexible, innovative, professional, and provide value for money.’

‘Martin Dančišin  is a real professional, open minded, and flexible.’

Key clients

Silicon Valley Bank


Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A.


UniCredit Bank AG


Deutsche Bank AG Filiale Deutschlandgeschäft


Erste Group Bank AG


COMMERZBANK AG


DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral-Genossenschaftsbank, Frankfurt am Main


ABN AMRO Bank N.V.


Landesbank Baden-Württemberg


Oldenburgische Landesbank Aktiengesellschaft


Siemens Bank GmbH


International Automotive Components Group


NortonLifeLock


Travelex Group


Fränkische Group


Work highlights


  • Advising NortonLifeLock, a consumer cybersafety specialist headquartered in Arizona and listed on NASDAQ, on its $9.2bn merger with Avast plc, a FTSE-listed digital security and privacy specialist headquartered in Prague.

PRK Partners

The banking, finance and capital markets team at PRK Partners regularly advises on real estate financing, project financing, acquisition financing, syndicated and club financing, and legislative and regulatory initiatives. The team is engaged by most local and foreign banks in the Czech market, including J.P. Morgan, UniCredit, Goldman Sachs, and Raiffeisenbank. Martin Aschenbrenner heads the capital markets offering, while Václav Bílý and Jan Kohout lead on the banking and finance side. Senior associate Jan Ditrych  is integral to the team, with particular expertise in bond issues, collective investment, and capital markets regulation. Tomáš Bureš, another senior associate in the group, is skilled at advising on transactions regarding financing of solar power plants and other renewable energy sources, as well as the provision of credit financing.


Practice head(s):

Martin Aschenbrenner; Václav Bílý; Jan Kohout


Testimonials

‘Efficient, flexible and responsive, pragmatic and commercial approach.’

Key clients

J. P. Morgan


UniCredit Bank AG (London)


Goldman Sachs Credit Partners L.P.


Gunnebo


UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia, a.s.


Tristone Flowtech group


Československá obchodní banka, a.s.


Česká spořitelna, a.s.


Raiffeisenbank a.s.


Komerční banka, a.s.


Work highlights


  • Advising J.P.Morgan – as the sole book runner, transactional advisor and financing arranger – on the financing of Draslovka’s acquisition of a mining solutions business from Chemours’ for $521m.
  • Advising Česká spořitelna, as lead manager, on the issuance of Kč1.5bn bonds of EUC.
  • Advising Credit Suisse, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and other lenders on the refinancing of €2.1bn senior acquisition and revolving facilities governed by English law.

White & Case, s.r.o., advokátní kancelář

White & Case, s.r.o., advokátní kancelář has one of the largest banking, finance and capital markets practices in the Czech Republic, covering all areas of debt and equity capital markets, with extensive experience advising on complex deals across the CEE region. The team covers all relevant areas including corporate finance, real estate finance, restructuring, and regulatory work. In the last year, the team has notably advised on a major IPO in the real estate and arena, as well as assisting with the first public euro benchmark covered bond under new legislation in the Czech Republic. Jan Linda leads on the banking side, while Jonathan Weinberg heads up the CEE English law practice. Petr Hudec and Eva Svobodová jointly lead the capital markets offering. Tomáš Jíně completes the roster of senior contacts.

Practice head(s):

Jan Linda; Jonathan Weinberg; Tomáš Jíně; Petr Hudec; Eva Svobodová


Testimonials

‘The go-to lawyers in the Czech Republic. The team is full of talented, educated, smart and hard-working people.’

‘Tomáš Jíně is one of the best lawyers of his generation.’

‘The best law firm our bank has ever worked with in the Czech Republic. Outstanding reliability, client service and relations, highest quality of legal work done within very tight timeline.’

‘Jan Linda joined the project in very complicated circumstances like he always was a part of our team. He controlled and managed every aspect, he was first in problem solving with his marvelous support and responsiveness. Client relationship management in its very essence.’

‘Jonathan Weinberg is extremely smart and hard-working, and a great choice for complex/structured financing transactions in the CEE region.’

‘Knowledge and experience accross disciplines. Law, economics, banking, including interconnections. Powered by a perfect knowledge of international law and all possible consequences. Takes a proactive approach to solving problems and situations.’

‘Exceptional individuals with strong expertise in different fields.’

‘Good knowledge base. Jan Linda is real professional and pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

Czech Banking Association


PPF Group


HELABA


Česká exportní banka (Czech Export Bank)


UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia


PPF banka


Aareal Bank


Citibank


Czech Railways


CTP Group


Česká spořitelna (Erste Group)


Net4Gas


Komerční banka (Société Générale Group)


Československá obchodní banka (KBC Group)


Raiffeisen Bank International Group


Vesa Equity Investments


ČEZ Group


EP Infrastructure (EPH Group)


J&T Banka


Rohlik Group


P3 Group


Energo-Pro


Work highlights


  • Representing Česká spořitelna, as lender, in the insolvency proceedings of Czech Airlines.
  • Advised CTP on its IPO and listing of its shares on Euronext Amsterdam.
  • Advised Komerční banka and Société Générale, as dealers, on the establishment of a €5bn international mortgage covered bonds programme by Komerční banka.

BBH, advokátní kancelár, s.r.o.

The banking, finance and capital markets team at BBH, advokátní kancelár, s.r.o. assists Czech and international groups with credit documentation negotiations, provides legal advice to Czech banks, and is experienced in bond issuance on both domestic and foreign markets. The practice also consists of a strong financial regulation team, allowing it to lead in fintech advisory work. The team frequently provides complex advice across all stages of a project for its clients, including structuring, negotiating, preparing structures of competing models, and assisting with any necessary documentation. Tomáš Sedláček is the head of the team, with significant expertise in structured finance, financial regulation, and capital markets.


Practice head(s):

Tomáš Sedláček


Other key lawyers:

Andrea Adamacova; Petr Přecechtěl


Testimonials

‘We instruct BBH in particular for the most complex projects and transactions. They are excellent in structuring the deals, preparing and negotiating documentation. Apart from just legal skills, they have very good commercial perception of all relevant matters in the transactions. Further, they are very responsive and able to meet even extremely ambitious deadlines.’

‘Petr Přecechtěl is an excellent lawyer, the best at structuring deals, able to solve the most complex legal issues, and extremely good at negotiating.’

‘Andrea Adamacova is excellent in drafting and negotiating documentation, very punctual, committed to deadlines, and very communicative.’

‘Tomáš Sedláček is reliable, always available, and creative.’

‘Andrea Adamcova has an excellent memory, which is extremely useful in face-to-face negotiations.’

‘Very strong team with senior individualities. What makes BBH a bit different is their entrepreneurial approach throughout the firm. Well connected, helpful in business organisation.’

‘The team is focused on details, reliable, and flexible.’

Key clients

Air Bank a.s.


Česká Exportní Banka (Czech Export Bank)


Česká Národní Banka (Czech National Bank)


Česká telekomunikační infrastruktura a.s. / CETIN Finance B.V.


Českomoravská Nemovitostní Group


EP Energy a.s./CE, Energy a.s.


EPH Group


Equa Bank


Home Credit Group


J&T Group


Nordic Investors Group, a.s.


PPF Group


PPF banka


Prvni Investicni a.s.


Raiffeisenbank a.s.


RD Rýmařov Group


Rockaway Capital


Sberbank CZ


Škoda Transportation Group


Work highlights


  • Advising PPF Group on the €1.1bn refinancing of the acquisition of shares in Moneta Money Bank.
  • Assisted Czech development group RD Rýmařov Group with its entry to the Czech capital markets.
  • Advising Air Bank on its Bank ID Project, including structuring and negotiating with three other banks.

CMS

The banking and finance practice at CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang combines local expertise in the area with international know-how, linking the domestic market with the knowledge of the CEE regional group. The team has a strong real estate financing practice, and advises many leading banks in the Czech Republic in this area. The team utilises a cross-practice set up. Petra Myšáková was a new arrival in September 2023 from Allen & Overy. Pavla Křečková left the firm.

Practice head(s):

Petra Myšáková


Other key lawyers:

Pavel Srb


Key clients

Raiffeisenbank International


Enery Development


Revetas Capital Advisors


Vinci/Meridiam


ČSOB (KBC Group)


Česká spořitelna (Erste Group)


Deka Immobilient


Bluehouse Capital


Aareal Bank


Patria investičníspolečnost (KBC Group)


Orbit Capital


Pradera


CSPP


Work highlights


  • Advising a syndicate of banks on the financing provided to CVC Capital Partners, a private equity and investment advisory firm, for its public takeover offer for Stock Spirits Group.
  • Advised Enery Development group on the refinancing of a Czech solar portfolio consisting of 5 photovoltaic power plants by Československá obchodní banka.
  • Advised RBI on an acquisition financing provided to PPF Real Estate.

HAVEL & PARTNERS s.r.o., attorneys at law

The banking, finance and capital markets practice at HAVEL & PARTNERS s.r.o., attorneys at law advises borrowers on all stages of financing, including the structuring of required financing, tendering of lenders, and negotiating of financing terms. The team's client roster spans Fortune 500 and Czech Top 100 companies, as well as leading banks and financial institutions, including Raiffeisenbank, Unicredit, Goldman Sachs. Filip Cabart and Jan Topinka are the co-heads of the team.

Practice head(s):

Filip Cabart; Jan Topinka


Key clients

Československá obchodní banka (KBC Group)


Česká Spořitelna (member of Erste Group)


J&T Banka


Sekyra Group


Komerční banka


UniCredit Bank


Solek Group


Raiffeisenbank


Fair Credit International


Goldman Sachs


Kinstellar

The banking, finance and capital markets team at Kinstellar works on transactional and regulatory matters for high-profile domestic and global clients, including Goldman Sachs, Barclays Bank Ireland, and UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia. Clients of the firm benefit from the integration of the regional banking and capital market practices. The practice is strong in compliance, risk, and sensitive investigations across the Czech Republic and the CEE region, as well as in real estate finance. Martina Březinová and Květoslav Krejčí co-head the team.

Practice head(s):

Martina Březinová; Květoslav Krejčí


Other key lawyers:

Václav Kment


Testimonials

‘I appreciate the professionality of the team and the client-oriented approach.’

‘Perfect cooperation with active approach to solve issues.’

‘The team takes a proactive approach and produces good quality work. The team is skilled and provides good advice.’

Key clients

ČEZ, a.s.


Česká spořitelna, a.s.


Genesis Capital Equity


Komerční banka, a.s.


Goldman Sachs


Barclays Bank Ireland PLC


Portiva Real Estate a.s.


ČSOB (KBC Group)


Helaba (Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen)


UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia, a.s.


Work highlights


  • Advising ČEZ on the update of a €8bn Euro Medium Term Note Programme and its first issue under a programme of sustainability-linked notes.
  • Advising GCP on the financing of 11 Entertainment group.
  • Advising UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia on the financing of the developmentof the Císařská vinice residential project, comprising 71 apartments, 3 houses and 5 villas in Prague.

Kocián Šolc Balaštík

The banking, finance and capital markets team at Kocián Šolc Balaštík has expertise in domestic and international transactional work, as well as financial regulation for retail and wholesale banking institutions, digital financial service products, and establishment of regulated firms. The team often works on ground-breaking matters and policy creation, and has worked closely with the National Development Bank of the Czech Republic for many years now. In the capital markets space, the team advises issuers, shareholders, and leading domestic and foreign investment banks on the whole spectrum of capital markets and securities work. Martin Krejčí, Vlastimil Pihera, and Petr Kasík form the leadership trio.

Practice head(s):

Martin Krejčí; Vlastimil Pihera; Petr Kasík


Testimonials

‘The team has a deep academic knowledge combined with the practical orientation and the ability to have real added value.’ 

‘I worked mainly with Vlastimil Pihera, whose advice I value as he has top expertise in both civil/corporate law and in financial regulation.’

‘The team is very experienced, client-friendly and cost-efficient.’ 

Key clients

J&T Banka


Corinthia


Ontex Group NV


National Development Bank of the Czech Republic


Československá obchodní banka (KBC Group bank)


Solitea Group


Mattoni 1873


Český spořitelna (Erste Group bank)


O2 Czech Republic


Arete Group


Redside investiční společnost


J&T investiční společnost


AMISTA investiční společnost


3M Fund MSI


J&T Global Finance


Alpha Quest Funds SICAV


Fraternity Funds SICAV


M & M Reality Invest


Arete Industrial SICAV


Pražská plynárenská


Work highlights


  • Advising on Mattoni 1873 and PepsiCo’s acquisition financing.
  • Advising J&T IB and Capital Markets, as the arrangers, on the issuance of €100m perpetual certificates.
  • Assisting Pražská plynárenská with obtaining financing for purchasing and ensuring gas to fill storage facilities for the heating season 2022/2023.

CERHA HEMPEL Kališ & Partners

The banking and finance practice at CERHA HEMPEL Kališ & Partners advises clients on distressed and insolvency financing, complex negotiations with major creditors, and day-to-day banking and finance matters. The team is also noted for its expertise in export financing, acquisition financing, and real estate financing. Martin Kartner is the head of the team, and is instructed by both creditors and debtors. Senior associate Barbora Kábrtová is another key figure in the team.


Practice head(s):

Martin Kartner


Other key lawyers:

Barbora Kábrtová; Petr Kališ


Testimonials

‘The team is always very cooperative, flexible and helpful.’

‘Petr Kališ is ready to stand up and fight to help his client.’

‘Martin Kartner is very organised, and an excellent strategist.’

‘I have worked with CHK for a number of years, and they are always my first port of call for all legal requirements. Communication is always quick, clear and concise. They are extremely thorough in their approach and will help you weigh up the pros and cons of taking certain decisions. Fees are very reasonable and overall service is excellent.’

‘We worked with Martin Kartner, and he was very good to work with. He was friendly, responsive and able to deal with complex issues that arose on a timely and practical basis.’

Key clients

XXXLutz


Česká exportní banka, a.s. (Czech Export Bank)


FCC Česká republika, s.r.o.


Swissquote Bank SA


BRP Tax SA


Gain Capital UK Limited


České aerolinie a.s. (Czech airlines a.s.)


Interactive Brokers


MEDIN, a.s.


Prospon spol. s r.o.


SAFINA, a.s.


FINDIGO CZ s.r.o.


SAFINA, a.s.


BRP Bizzozero & Partners SA


Reitknechtka a.s.


HOL-MONTA s.r.o.


Elysian Capital LLP


OFFICEO


Visual Riders s.r.o.


CARCLO PLC


Work highlights


  • Advising ŽĎAS, as a debtor, on the refinancing of a syndicate operation loan of €75m from ČSOB and Raiffeisenbank.
  • Assisting CARCLO with an amendment to an operational term loan and revolving loan agreement for £19.5m, $13.5m and €5m.
  • Advised Elysian Capital on the acquisition of part of the shares of Mergon.

DUNOVSKÁ & PARTNERS

The banking and finance team at DUNOVSKÁ & PARTNERS specialises in investment and project finance, alternative financing, security instruments, risk credits, debt collection, and banking regulation, amongst others. The team has longstanding relationships with high-profile banking institutions, including HSBC Continental Europe and Raiffeisenbank. Founding partner David Urbanec leads the team, and represents major banks in both court and arbitration proceedings in financing-related disputes. Barbora Dunovská, also a founding partner, is another key figure in the team.

Practice head(s):

David Urbanec


Other key lawyers:

Barbora Dunovská; Aleš Hradil


Testimonials

‘Their strength is definitely their long-term expertise and experience in banking and finance and their ability to deal with complex and challenging situations. They are very focused on providing top quality service often still at a higher level than large international law firms.’

‘Barbora Dunovská and David Urbanec are both absolutely reliable, hardworking and trustworthy. Their innovative and analytical thinking leads to well-thought-out and workable solutions. David is also an excellent representative in court proceedings. Their legal opinions in the most complex cases are always of very high quality.’

‘The team at Dunovská & Partners is very experienced, and well diversified, with good substitutability and flexibility in its reactions to our requirements. We have long-term cooperation with the team and that is why there is continuity and very high success ratio in defending our court cases.’

‘David Urbanec and Barbora Dunovská are both very innovative, flexible, and business-oriented lawyers with strong negotiating skills, whom we recommend strongly.’

‘Aleš Hradil is an experienced lawyer and a very good speaker before the court. David Urbanec is an experienced lawyer, and thinks innovatively.’

‘We have been working with Dunovská & Partners for over the past several years in banking and finance-related law. We are very happy with the performance and knowledge not only of the local law and practice, but also of what is going on in the market, which is very important for our firm.’

‘We mostly deal with David Urbanec, who is very capable as well as accessible and flexible. It is always a joy to meet with him and discuss the matters that concern us.’

‘David Urbanec is a leading advisor for factoring in issues and an excellent negotiator.’

Key clients

Československá obchodní banka, a.s.


HSBC Continental Europe


Česká spořitelna, a.s. of ERSTE Group


ČSOB Factoring, a.s.


Euler Hermes SA, organizational unit


Raiffeisenbank a.s.


Sberbank CZ, a.s.


Odyssey 44, a.s.


Expobank CZ a.s.


PENTA INVESTMENTS LIMITED, organizational unit


Komerční banka, a.s.


UCB, s.r.o.


Work highlights


  • Advising the SPORTISIMO Group on the negotiation of new loan and security documentation.
  • Advising Česká spořitelna on the recovery of loan receivables of £1.72m from a company operating in the fashion sector.
  • Advising on the transfer of factoring agreements, including security, from the HSBC Prague branch to another (foreign) entity within the HSBC group.

Schoenherr Czech Republic

The banking, finance and capital markets team at Schoenherr Czech Republic regularly advises on cross-border transactions, and is also active in the financial regulatory space, as well as assisting with complex insurance-related matters. Ondřej Havlíček, who specialises in project financing and counts multiple leading banks and financial institutions among his clients, leads the team.

Practice head(s):

Ondřej Havlíček


Other key lawyers:

Vladimír Čížek


Testimonials

‘I very much appreciate the great attitude and smooth cooperation and deep expertise of people at Schoenherr. They not only know all legal aspects but can also observe the problems from the business and practical point of view which is not as usual.’

‘We would like to highlight the swift and smooth cooperation and friendly approach together with an exceptionally high level of provided services.’

‘Excellent work and approach to solving the particular questions with an aim to prepare documentation on time and in very good quality.’

‘The team takes a pro-active approach, has very good communication and negotiation skills, and a professional approach.’

Key clients

Raiffeisenbank a.s.


BNP Paribas


UNIQA Pojišťovna a.s.


Erste Group AG


UniCredit Bank AG


Komerční banka, a.s.


Twisto payments a.s.


Banco Santander


Benteler International AG


Enery Development GmbH


Enery Power CZ Holding


LEONI AG


UNIPETROL RPA, s.r.o.


AKCENTA CZ a.s.


LynxCap Group AG


Work highlights


  • Advised Enery on a €140m bond financing for the the acquisition of Energy 21 and its subsidiaries and affiliates from China Central and Eastern Europe Investment Co-operation Fund SCS SICAV-SIF and the refinancing of existing indebtedness.
  • Advising BENTELER International AG, Benteler ČR, Benteler Automotive Klášterec, Benteler Automotive Rumburk and Benteler Maschinenbau on all Czech law  aspects of the restructuring of Benteler Group debt.
  • Advised Raiffeisenbank on the provision of financing to Louda Auto and several companies from this group, in particular for the purpose of acquisition of several dealerships in the Czech Republic.

Skils s.r.o. advokátní kancelář

The banking and capital markets team at Skils s.r.o. advokátní kancelář advises on many financial projects, including the structured finance, mezzanine or syndicated loans, and staple financing. A wide range of Czech and international banks, major corporate clients, public authorities, and government entities instruct the team. In the capital markets area, the team regularly assists with IPOs, issues of shares and Eurobonds, and Czech short and long term notes. Karel Muzikář, who is dual-qualified in the Czech Republic and New York, heads up the practice.

Practice head(s):

Karel Muzikar


Other key lawyers:

Karolina Horakova; Karel Drevínek; Martin Kramar; Jiri Kindl


Testimonials

‘Very attentive client service, sound judgement, long and deep experience in the concerned industries, very high qualification, expertise and experience of the individual partners and associates.’ 

‘I would like to mention Karel Muzikar, Karolina Horakova; Karel Drevínek; Martin Kramar; Jiri Kindl – they are viewed by us as people who ensure the overall quality and act as the closest advisors on the most important and sensitive matters. It also needs to be mentioned that we very much value the personal insight and direct involvement of these partners of Skils in our matters which is truly extraordinary and highly exceeds the standard approach of other firms.’

‘Experienced banking and finance lawyers with a strong business acumen.’

Key clients

Kiwi.com


Ceska sporitelna (Czech Savings Bank)


MONETA Money Bank


Advent International Corporation


Blue Torch Capital LP


CEZ/CEZ Group


Bain Capital


Trinity Bank


Equa Bank


Unipetrol


Telefónica S.A.


Plzensky Prazdroj / Pilsner Urquell Investments BV


Squire Patton Boggs s.r.o., advokátní kancelář

The financial services team at Squire Patton Boggs s.r.o., advokátní kancelář is instructed by a notable roster Czech and international banks, and is also part of an advisory group to the Czech Government. The practice typically focuses on financial compliance and regulatory work. Notably, the team recently assisted major Czech bank KBC with its first green financings across the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Danica Šebestová is the head of the team, with expertise in banking and finance, international regulatory and compliance, and blockchain issues.

Practice head(s):

Danica Šebestová


Key clients

BGRS


Česká bankovní asociace


Česká exportní banka, a.s.


Československá obchodní banka, a.s.


Deutsche Bank AG


Galerie Šantovka a.s.


Galerie Teplice s.r.o.


Hanon Systems


Komerční banka, a.s.


Raiffeisenbank International AG


REDSTONE REAL ESTATE, a.s.


Šantovka Holding


UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia, a.s.


Work highlights


  • Advised ČSOB Group, a subsidiary of KBC Bank NV, on the refinancing of its participation in the acquisition of a production plant, warehouse and related plots of land located in Kopřivnice, Czech Republic.
  • Advised UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia on the insolvency of České aerolinie.

Wolf Theiss

The banking and finance team at Wolf Theiss deals with a wide range of project, acquisition, real estate and corporate financing, as well as advising on financial regulatory mandates and establishment of investment funds. Banks, non-banking financial institutions, and insurance companies are all regularly advised by the team. Robert David heads the team, specialising in acquisition finance, export finance, refinancing, and general lending. David is supported by associates Filip Michalec, Kristýna Tupà and Tomáš Kren, who joined the team in May 2022 from Českomoravská nemovitostní.


Practice head(s):

Robert David


Other key lawyers:

Filip Michalec; Kristýna Tupá; Tomáš Kren


Key clients

DAKO – CZ, a.s.


LAMA ENERGY GROUP a.s.


IdInvest Debt S.à r.l.


UniCredit Bank AG


Česká spořitelna (Erste Group Bank)


Work highlights


  • Advised DAKO-CZ, a major Czech manufacturer of braking systems, on its complete refinancing amounting to €72.59m.
  • Advised UniCredit Bank, as the lender, on increasing the financing of Medi-Globe Group and DS Rose Investment Holding, worth €98m.
  • Advised Erste Group Bank on a €500m green bond issue which was listed on the Vienna Stock Exchange.

act Randa Havel Legal

The banking and finance team at act Randa Havel Legal has extensive experience in transactional work, advising domestic and international financial institutions, private equity funds, real estate funds, and smaller entities.  The team is known for its strenght in NPL sales transactions. Alois Šatava is the head of the team, with experience in private equity transactions, international acquisitions, and company sales.

Practice head(s):

Alois Šatava


Other key lawyers:

Matyáš Kužela; Tomáš Zwinger


Testimonials

‘Highly respected team with experience in advising both lenders and borrowers on complex financing transactions. Members of this team are very responsive, know the market very well and always deliver very high-quality advice.’

‘Matyáš Kužela is a problem solver who comes up with good solutions. He is very fast, proactive and smart.’

‘Tomáš Zwinger is very proactive, always available and hands-on in his approach.’

Key clients

JUFA Investment Group


SENSE Invest, spol. s r.o.


Pražské služby, a.s.


G-Team a.s.


Crofungo, s.r.o.


Synthomer a.s.


JCHS Invest


RN Solutions a.s.


Trans Factoring s.r.o.


Exportní garanční a pojišťovací společnost


CVI Dom Maklerski


AVANT Investiční společnost


Work highlights


  • Advising Exportní garanční a pojišťovací společnost, the state-owned insurance company supporting Czech exports abroad, on issues relating to the legal ineffectiveness of a contract on the assignment of receivables.
  • Advising Trans Factoring, a company active in the discount invoicing and factoring business, on a revolving facility enabling it to expand its business.
  • Advising Pražské služby on the financing of the GOLEM Project in Prague.

bpv Braun Partners s.r.o.

The banking and finance team at bpv Braun Partners s.r.o. works on a range of issues involving banking law and financial issues, including asset and project finance, lease transactions, and regulatory issues. The team largely focuses on acquiring and selling banks, providing advice to local and international securities brokers, representing clients in proceedings before the Czech national bank, and advising key local and international securities banks. David Vosol and managing partner Arthur Braun jointly lead the team.

Practice head(s):

David Vosol; Arthur Braun


Key clients

IKB Deutsche Industriebank AG


KDB Bank Europe Ltd.


Raiffeisenlandesbank Niederösterreich-Wien AG


Key Bank


Raiffeisenbank a.s


SunContracting


Eco Finance


Work highlights


  • Advised Sun Contracting on the issuing of bonds to be sold in both the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
  • Advising Raiffeisenbank on the construction of an outlet shopping centre in Ostrava.
  • Advising KeyBank on the financing of the Celonis group and securing the fulfilment of the conditions set for the Czech company within the Celonis group.

Deloitte Legal s.r.o., advokátní kancelář

The banking and finance team at Deloitte Legal s.r.o., advokátní kancelář is active on matters related to insurance law, distribution of financial products, leasing and factoring, and regulatory advice. The team is able to co-operate with the firm's tax experts, allowing for specialised advice at the intersection of these two spheres. Jan Procházka is the head of the team, advising banks, insurance companies, and other entities on regulatory requirements, and leading a wide range of other projects.

Practice head(s):

Jan Procházka


Other key lawyers:

Tereza Davidová; Roman Fabiánek


Testimonials

‘Deloitte Legal is a dynamic legal firm which provides comprehensive legal services. Its advantage is a unique team spirit and excellent know-how in many different fields of law. Apart from a high level of professionality I appreciate the extremely friendly approach.’

‘I would recommend Tereza Davidová and Jan Procházka as they are extraordinary in their field of expertise.’

‘The team has expert knowledge and is personally involved.’

Key clients

Advanto Group s.r.o.


Air Bank a.s.


Caterpillar Financial Services ČR, s.r.o.


CTP Invest, spol. s r.o.


LASTR s.r.o.


NN Životní pojišťovna N.V., pobočka pro Českou republiku


SatoshiLabs Group a.s.


UNIQA pojišťovna, a.s.


VIG RE zajišťovna, a.s.


ZNPay a.s.


DELTA legal

The banking and finance team at DELTA legal represents top Czech companies, investment funds, and financial groups, and is skilled at working across jurisdictions for international clients. The team is particularly strong in real estate finance and restructuring. Libor Vacek is the head of the team, with experience in bank lending, real estate and project financing,acquisition financing, and non-bank lending. Pavel Fára is another key figure in the team, specialising in real estate finance and finance regulatory matters.

Practice head(s):

Libor Vacek


Other key lawyers:

Pavel Fára; Michal Zahradník; Veronika Chrobok


Testimonials

‘DELTA’s team is highly professional and combines excellent knowledge of financial and banking law issues with understanding of our business and commercial needs. They also know the banking standards extremely well which helps us in effective structuring of our transactions.’

‘Libor Vacek is an experienced finance and banking law expert. He is a commercially-oriented lawyer who delivers practical solutions. He is efficient in negotiations and can get the deal done. He is truly a person in whom we can trust.’

‘Pavel Fára is an extremely calm negotiator, renowned for his industry sector knowledge. With Pavel in the team we know that our interests will be protected at the highest possible level.’

Key clients

Komerční banka, a.s.


INVESTIKA investiční společnost, a.s.


KKCG Group


EXCHANGE s.r.o.


Trigea nemovitostni fond


Silverline Capital


Dimension Data Global Delivery Center Europe s.r.o.


Société Générale S.A.


CASIN Establishment


Smith Medical


BH Badete s.r.o.


BH Endency s.r.o.


 


 


Work highlights


  • Represented Komerční banka in numerous debt workouts, including enforcing its creditor’s rights in front of Czech courts and representing it in disputes related to various promissory notes.
  • Advised KKCG on a convertible loan and a complex asset finance transaction.
  • Advising INVESTIKA Investiční společnost on numerous financings, including a cross-border acquisition of properties.

DLA Piper

The banking, finance and capital markets team at DLA Piper acts for clients across the spectrum of banking and finance issues, and is involved in both domestic transactions and complex cross-border deals. The head of the team is Miroslav Dubovský, who focuses on transactional work. Petr Sabatka is another key figure in the team, leading on much of the financial regulatory work.

Practice head(s):

Miroslav Dubovský


Other key lawyers:

Petr Sabatka; Marcel Janíček


Key clients

LINET Group SE


VITRABLOK, s.r.o.


Fora-Bank Joint-Stock Commercial Bank


Aareal Bank AG


UniCredit Bank Austria AG


UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia, a.s.


ING Bank N.V.


Societe Generale/Komerční banka, a.s.


J&T Banka, a.s.


UniCredit Leasing CZ, a.s.


Citizens Bank


UBM Development


Zip Co Limited


John Menzies Group


eToro (Europe) Limited


Work highlights


  • Advising LINET Group, a Czech-based European manufacturer of hospital and nursing beds, on a syndicated revolving facility agreement provided by club of banks (namely Commerzbank Aktiengesellschaft, Komerčná banka, Citibank, Deutsche Bank and Česká spořitelna).
  • Advising Aareal Bank on a €360m senior facility for the financing of an international retail property portfolio by Pradera European Retail Parks.
  • Advising Cypriot company eToro on transfer of its financial services license to the Czech Republic and on related obligations.

Eversheds Sutherland Dvorák Hager, advokátní kancelár, s.r.o.

The banking and finance team at Eversheds Sutherland Dvorák Hager, advokátní kancelár, s.r.o. advises clients on various types of financing, including acquisition, syndicated, project, and real estate, as well as on licence-related matters. The practice uses a project-based approach, providing comprehensive advice at each stage. Petra Konečná is the head of the team, with a wealth of experience particularly in syndicated financing. Associate Katarína  Jendzelovska is another key figure in the team.

Practice head(s):

Petra Konečná


Other key lawyers:

Katarína Jendželovská


Testimonials

‘They provide very efficient communication, namely one main point of contact that includes all other team members as needed considering the project. The main advantage is that they have offices in multiple jurisdictions and you easily get help from other offices. Their collaboration is very smooth, and they respond very quickly. Any issues are immediately addressed and explained. ‘

‘They showed a very high level of innovative thinking; they provided us with a solution that significantly benefited our business. They discovered a very nice way how to fulfill the requirements that first seemed not reachable.’

Key clients

Various Investment Funds


Conseq


Giese & Partner, s.r.o.

The banking and finance team at Giese & Partner, s.r.o. works for clients across industries, including the banking, commercial and professional services, and real estate and energy sectors. The practice advises largely on refinancings, as well as syndicated and acquisition financing. Martin Holler and Jitka Sytařová are the joint heads of the team.

Practice head(s):

Martin Holler; Jitka Sytařová


Key clients

Bayerische Landesbank


Deutsche Pfandbriefbank


Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen


Rodenstock Group


HYPO NOE Landesbank


Commerzbank AG


SIDLEY AUSTIN (CE) LLP


Work highlights


  • Advised German banks Deutsche Pfandbriefbank and Helaba on Crestyl’s €130m refinancing of Prague’s Dock In Office Park.
  • Advised Deutsche Pfandbriefbank and Helaba on the €108m refinancing of Futurama Business Park located in Prague.

Noerr s.r.o.

Noerr s.r.o. is typically active on a range of work, including bespoke debt financings and distressed financing cases. In addition to complex financing work, the team has a thriving regulatory practice, which allows for close work with the local regulatory authority. Luděk Chvosta, who is qualified in four jurisdictions, acts as one of the team heads, and regularly represents clients in some of the most prominent insolvency proceedings in the Czech Republic. Chvosta's co-head, associate Filip Murár, specialises in financial regulation, corporate financing, litigation, and energy regulation.

Practice head(s):

Luděk Chvosta; Filip Murár


Testimonials

‘Filip Murár and Luděk Chvosta are excellent and efficient. Response times are very good and their work is very thorough.’

‘Luděk Chvosta is an all-star, always available, always delivers solutions and exceptional knowledge of the market. My go-to lawyer in the Czech Republic!’

‘The team has competitive pricing and swift responses.’

Key clients

Aurelius / VAG Group


Thomas Cook GmbH


Commerzbank AG


PETERKA & PARTNERS

The banking and finance team at PETERKA & PARTNERS advises domestic and international companies on export financing, regulatory issues, credit facilities, syndicated loans, re-financings, and bond issues, amongst many others. The team is highly capable of acting on cross-border mandates. Senior associate Petr Říha is the head of the team, regularly assisting various banks and other financial institutions, particularly in the areas of loan transactions and regulatory issues.

Practice head(s):

Petr Říha


Key clients

Komercni banka, a.s.


International Bank for Economic Cooperation


Web Shield Legal Library, spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością sp.k.


JSC ALFA-BANK


SAXO BANK A/S


Work highlights


  • Prepared loan and security documents for Komercni banka.
  • Advised International Bank for Economic Cooperation on the possibility of securing debts.
  • Advised Web Shield Legal Library on a legal framework for cryptocurrencies in the Czech Republic.

Weinhold Legal

The banking and finance team at Weinhold Legal assists financial institutions with project, asset, real estate and acquisition finance, and consumer credits, as well as capital markets and private equity transactions. The firm’s offices in both Prague and Brno ensure that the team has a significant national presence across the region. Daniel Weinhold, dual-qualified in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, is the head of the team.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Weinhold


Testimonials

‘Partner-led and provides a quick service.’

Key clients

Sodexo


Wood Forest Group