Firms To Watch: Banking and finance: transactional work

DWF (France) AARPI launched its practice in April 2022 with the hiring of Richard Jadot, an experienced banking and finance partner in the renewable energy and asset finance fields who assists lenders and borrowers.
Proskauer Rose LLP hired a private equity team in September 2023 with considerable LBO acquisition finance expertise in Maud Manon.
Simon Associés launched its practice January 2022 following the arrival of Christelle Salmon-Lataste, who was previously with Herbert Smith Freehills LLP, and has a strong involvement advising French banks on a broad range of small to mid LBO, asset and corporate finance transactions.
Squire Patton Boggs launched its practice in Spring 2022 with the hire of Benjamin Marché, who was previously with Shearman & Sterling LLP, and has a strong involvement assisting private equity funds and debt funds on LBO and acquisition finance deals.

Firms in the Spotlight Banking and finance: transactional work

CHASSANY WATRELOT & ASSOCIES

CHASSANY WATRELOT & ASSOCIES logo

A FULL-EXPERTISE HUMAN RESOURCES LAW FIRM   Founded in 1987, Chassany Watrelot & Associés (CWA) is one of the main French law firms whose activity is exclusively dedicated to employment law and all other legal areas related to human resources management (insurance law, tax law…).

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Vivien & Associés

Vivien & Associés logo

Vivien & Associés offers competitive legal services and representation across a broad range of key practice areas:

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Banking and finance: transactional work in France

Allen & Overy LLP

Allen & Overy LLP has a strong presence among leading banking institutions which the firm regularly assists with the granting of large credit facilities to major corporations, including advising on multi-currency deals. The Paris team, which works closely with the London office, also advises some borrowers and alternative debt funds, while its range of expertise also encompasses project finance, asset finance and acquisition finance. Julien Roux leads the practice which also includes the highly experienced Adrian Mellor and Thomas RoyJean-Christophe David  and Géraldine Lezmi left the firm in May 2023.

Practice head(s):

Julien Roux


Other key lawyers:

Adrian Mellor; Thomas Roy


Testimonials

‘Excellent.’

‘Very good technical level and particularly efficient in the execution processes of plain vanilla investment grade financing.’

‘Julien Roux is an excellent technician with a very transversal approach to subjects. He is not disconcerted by new developments and is capable of working on a very broad spectrum of financing. Thomas Roy is a very good lawyer with a more LBO culture. Very pragmatic and very involved.’

Key clients

Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank


La Banque Postale


Borealis


In’Li


Louis Delhaize


Sodexo


Andera Acto


CMA CGM


Arcmont


Sanofi


Ares


Barings


CIC Private Debt


Eurazeo Private Debt (formerly Idinvest)


KartesiA


Eurazeo


Goldman Sachs PIA


IK Partners


PAI Partners


Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance  is entrusted by the world’s leading banks and top French financial institutions, while also regularly handling work for borrowers and debt funds. The team covers a large spectrum of structured and complex banking financings, including acquisition finance. project and infrastructure financing. It regularly advises on the granting of large loans and corporate refinancing, and recently worked on a major refinancing pertaining to large infrastructure vehicles. Co-heads of practice Thierry Arachtingi and Daniel Zerbib are among France’s most renowned banking and finance law experts. Pierre-Benoit Pabot Du Châtelard is another strong element, while counsels Maroussia Cuny and Chloé Desreumaux provide additional support.

Practice head(s):

Thierry Arachtingi; Daniel Zerbib


Other key lawyers:

Pierre-Benoit Pabot du Châtelard; Maroussia Cuny; Chloé Desreumaux


Testimonials

‘Good commercial knowledge of the market. Excellent knowledge of the latest developments in case law’.

‘The team is very pleasant, making the collaboration very friendly while being extremely professional and adapted to the needs of the transaction. Very available – ability to seek out the necessary additional resources when certain subjects fall outside the team’s field of expertise.’

‘A dynamic, agile and efficient team that admirably coordinates other expertise in the firm as needed.’

‘Pierre-Benoit Pabot du Châtelard shows a pragmatic and dynamic approach. ’

‘The team of lawyers led by Daniel Zerbib is distinguished by its professionalism, expertise and commitment. The lawyers in this team like Chloé Desreumaux are highly qualified and have in-depth knowledge of project financing and more broadly the banking environment. They are also very attentive and work closely with us to understand our needs and goals.’

‘Chloé Desreumaux stands out by having a very strong work ethic, a very detailed knowledge of banking constraints and requirements and real negotiating skills which make it possible to overcome major commercial impasses and make financing a success.’

‘Thierry Arachtingi is one of the Parisian kings of acquisition financing.’

Key clients

FRENCH BANKS


BNP Paribas


Crédit Agricole


CACEIS


Natixis


Société Générale


INTERNATIONAL BANKS:


Bank of America Merrill Lynch


Barclays


BTMU


Credit Suisse


Deutsche Bank


Goldman Sachs


HSBC


ING


IKB


JP Morgan


UniCredit


SMBC


CORPORATE ENTERPRISES:


AccorInvest


Airbus


AXA


Bouygues


Carrefour


EDF


Eiffage


L’Oréal


Pierre & Vacances


Ramsay Santé


SANEF


TOTAL


Vinci


PRIVATE EQUITY FUNDS:


3i


Apax Partners


Apollo


Ardian


Bridgepoint


DIF Infrastructure


Carlyle Group


CDC I Capital


Cinven


Clayton Dublier & Rice


Eurazeo


KKR


InfraVia


Macquarie


Meridiam


Permira


Wendel


GOVERNMENT / INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTIONS:


CDC (Caisse des dépôts et consignations)


EIB


Ministry of Transport of Finance


BPI France


The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development


FIA Europe


LCH Clearnet S.A.


World Bank


DEBT FUNDS


Ardian Private Debt


Ares Capital


Barings


BlackRock


Capzanine


CDPQ


EQT Infrastructure III


LBPAM


Pemberton


SCOR Investment Partners SE


Work highlights


  • Advising the lenders on the financing of the acquisition of the old Suez’s hazardous waste assets in France.
  • Advising Ares Capital on the unitranche financing of the acquisition of Laboratoire XO by Stanley Capital Partners.
  • Advising the super senior lenders on the financing of the acquisition of Vacanceselect by PAI Partners.

Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.

Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I. has comprehensive banking and finance capabilities that cover the full spectrum of financial services and financing issues, from banking and regulatory matters to structured finance, derivatives and project finance work. Through its international network of offices and notably its London office, the firm is able to provide French and UK law expertise. The Parisian banking and finance transactional team mainly focuses on corporate, acquisition and asset finance deals, assisting leading French banks, investment funds and corporations, regularly assisting with complex large LBO financing and tender offer financing deals while also advising on ESG loans in the real estate sector. The team is jointly headed by the excellent Eric Cartier-Millon, who is a reference for LBO and acquisition finance deals, Nathalie Benoit , who is also another key member in that field, and Laetitia Lemercier and Farah El-Bsat, who have a strong focus on asset and real estate finance.

Practice head(s):

Eric Cartier-Millon; Laetitia Lemercier; Farah El-Bsat; Nathalie Benoit


Testimonials

‘Very good knowledge of the market and market players.’

‘Eric Cartier-Millon: total mastery of market and products. Very experienced negotiator, always acting in a very consensual manner. ’

‘Farah El-Bsat is an excellent lawyer who provides real added value. She addresses important legal issues and finds workable solutions for everyone. She is very hands-on and fully available. High quality advice.’

‘A very responsive and very competent team, with excellent market knowledge’.

‘Farah El-Bsat knows how to bring projects to fruition that seem bogged down, demonstrating excellent legal skills and unparalleled efficiency.’

Key clients

Vauban Infrastructure Partners


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations (CDC)


CVC


Appolo Funds


Park Square


Crescent


Limagrain


Grand Est Mobilités (GEM)


Wendel


Stahl


Banque Palatine


Banque Populaire Du Sud


BNP Paribas


Caisse D’epargne Et De Prévoyance D’auvergne Et Du Limousin


Caisse D’epargne Et De Prévoyance Du Languedoc-Roussillon


Caisse D’Epargne Et De Prévoyance Ile-De-France


Caisse Régionale De Crédit Agricole Mutuel De Paris Et D’ile De France


Crédit Industriel Et Commercial


Crédit Lyonnais


HSBC Continental Europe


Natixis


Société Générale


KfW Ipex Bank


European Investment Bank


Rothschild


Europcar


Latham & Watkins

Latham & Watkins ranks among the top firms for LBO acquisition finance work and sophisticated loans. The practice, which can seamlessly mix banking, high yield and unitranche expertise, assists leading financial institutions as well as private equity sponsors and several corporates. The Paris team, which regularly collaborates with its London counterparts, also advises on major refinancing deals. Carla-Sophie Imperadeiro supervises a team that includes key names Xavier Farde, Michel Houdayer and Lionel Dechmann.

Practice head(s):

Carla-Sophie Imperadeiro


Other key lawyers:

Michel Houdayer; Xavier Farde; Lionel Dechnmann


Key clients

AD Education


Ardian


Ares


Astorg Partners


BNP Paribas


Bridgepoint Advisers Limited


Circet group


Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank


Farallon Capital Europe LLP


Fraikin


IK Partners


Industry Capital Group (ICG)


ING Bank N.V., French Branch


J.P. Morgan


Juvisé Pharmaceuticals


Lagardère


Loxam


Marathon


Mediawan


Natixis


Odéalim


Partners Group


Pemberton


Prosol Group


SK Capital


Société Générale


TA Associates


Technology & Strategy


Tikehau


Vivalto Santé Group


Work highlights


  • Advised the lenders in connection with the refinancing of the existing senior financial indebtedness of Spie SA and entering into a new sustainability-linked senior facilities agreement for an aggregate total amount of €1,200,000,000.
  • Advised BNP Paribas in relation to an amend and extend process in relation to the term loan and revolving credit facility of Albéa Group, a producer and provider of beauty and personal care packaging solutions.
  • Advised TA Associates in connection with the financing of the acquisition of Groupe Odéalim by an investment vehicle co-controlled by TA Associates and Ardian and the refinancing of the existing senior indebtedness of Groupe Odéalim.

Linklaters

Linklaters houses top banking and finance capabilities in Paris with complementary expertise available in its London and other European offices. The team has a strong involvement working alongside leading French and international investment banks while also regularly acting for borrowers on large complex loan financing and refinancing. It also thrives in the acquisition finance arena, regularly working on large equity bridge loans and financing of public offer facilities. The team is also retained by lenders and borrowers undertaking large pan-European property portfolio acquisition, especially in the logistics sector. Key names in the team include Cyril AbtanKathryn Merryfield and recently promoted partner Rhéa Christophilopoulos. Counsel Lauren Hanley provides further support.

Practice head(s):

Bertrand Andriani


Other key lawyers:

Cyril Abtan; Kathryn Merryfield; Rhéa Christophilopoulos; Lauren Hanley


Testimonials

‘Great expertise in the field of banking and finance. The high level of technicality is very reassuring for complex or innovative cases.’

‘Cyril Abtan is very present on files and has great technical expertise in addition to being very available. ’

‘Excellent team: second to none in terms of execution capacity. Ability to understand complex issues and to innovate. Very good advice.’

‘Very available and efficient; very good understanding of clients’ interests, constraints and requests.’

‘Kathryn Merryfield is a very experienced lawyer, very qualified, providing good advice and very available. She is very helpful in understanding and negotiating legal documentation, and in finding the point of balance between the interests and demands of the parties.’

‘Very pleasant team, good understanding of customers’ issues.’

‘Very high levels of skill and availability.’

Key clients

CBRE Group


CGG


Citibank Europe Plc


Goldman Sachs


Incus Capital Advisors S.A.


JP Morgan


Legrand


Plastic Omnium


Natixis


Société Générale


Teleperformance


The Carlyle Group


Wells Fargo Bank


Work highlights


  • Advised Citi and Société Générale as joint underwriters, mandated lead arrangers and bookrunners in relation to the public offer financing of the acquisition by Schneider Electric SE of Aveva Group plc.
  • Advised Teleperformance SE (a French listed company) in relation to the financing of the public offer acquisition of Majorel.

White & Case LLP

White & Case LLP's solid resources allow it to tackle a high-volume of transactions on behalf of a whole range of clients from leading banks and alternative financial providers to private equity sponsors as well as some corporates. The practice is particularly recognised in the LBO acquisition finance arena, regularly advising on large transactions, while also advising on general lending. It recently completed the first sustainability-linked financing set up on the French unicorn market. The team, which includes experts in high-level internal corporate and restructuring capabilities, is also well positioned to advise on complex refinancing and debt restructuring deals, often featuring major cross-border dimensions. Practice head Raphaël Richard is a key name in his field. Denise Diallo, who is dual qualified in New York and Paris, is also highly experienced. Samir Berlat and  Neeloferr Roy are also highly regarded.

Practice head(s):

Raphaël Richard


Other key lawyers:

Denise Diallo; Samir Berlat; Neeloferr Roy


Testimonials

‘Extreme professionalism, good expertise, responsiveness and pragmatic approach.’

‘Neeloferr Roy is exceptional.’

Key clients

BNP Paribas


Crédit Agricole


Société Générale


Natixis


HSBC France


Morgan Stanley


Deutsche Bank


JP Morgan


Goldman Sachs


Bank of Ireland


SMBC


Keolis


Aéma Group


Orpéa


Alstom


Tereos


LVMH


Cobepa


Eurazeo


IK Investment Partners


BlackRock


Permira


CVC Capital Partners


Work highlights


  • Advised Bank of America, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank (including as ESG coordinator), Goldman Sachs, HSBC Continental Europe and Société Générale on a €75 million sustainability-linked revolving credit facility for Vestiaire Collective.
  • Advised the arrangers on ICG’s financing of the combination of Konecta and Comdata.
  • Advising ORPEA Groupe on the implementation of a financing in the context of a settlement agreement with its main bank lenders and on its current restructuring.

Ashurst LLP

Building on the hiring of new practice head Eric Fiszelson in early 2023,  Ashurst LLP’s practice shows great strength when it comes to advising leading French banks on large corporate and acquisition finance deals. The team, which also assists corporations, private equity and private debt funds, is particularly sought after for financing or refinancing deals for credit revolving and bridge financing loans. It advises on mid to large cap LBO financing including unitranche deals. Pierre Roux is the other key name in the practice, which also includes counsel Audrey Lesage.

Practice head(s):

Eric Fiszelson


Other key lawyers:

Pierre Roux; Audrey Lesage


Testimonials

‘The team is solid, rigorous, available and resolutely oriented internationally. It is a firm attentive to parity issues and aware of ESG issues.’

‘Audrey Lesage has extensive experience in acquisition financing and more broadly in structured financing. Audrey demonstrates a pragmatic and business-oriented spirit. Eric Fiszelson has excellent legal skills and is always available and educational. More than a lawyer, he is also a facilitator and mediator. In short, Ashurst is an innovative firm, daring and efficient.’

‘Good quality of service, technicality, responsiveness and availability.’

Key clients

Arcmont Asset Management


BNP Paribas


Caravelle


Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Banking


Crédit Suisse


CVC Credit


Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Banking


European Investment Bank


Glas Americas LLC


Intermediate Capital Group


LGT Private Debt


Medincell


Natixis


Permira


Schelcher Prince Gestion


Sun Capital Partners


Société Générale


Work highlights


  • Advised Société Générale and BNP Paribas on the implementation of a €1 billion bridge loan.
  • Advising CIC Lyonnaise des Banques and a pool of syndicated banks for the EUR226,000,000 financing of the public tender offer in respect of Groupe Boiron launched by Boiron Developpement.
  • Advised the lenders on the financing of the acquisition of ETC Group by Cinven from Carlyle.

Bredin Prat

Bredin Prat his regularly sought out by corporations, as well as shareholders, sponsors and investment funds on corporate and acquisition financing. The team is particularly strong advising on combined banking and bond loan financing deals, and has strong experience advising on financing facilities granted in the context of public M&A and securities deals including IPOs. The team also assists with debt refinancing as well as LBO and private equity financing deals. Raphaële Courtier leads the practice, which includes Samuel Pariente  and Karine Sultan.

Practice head(s):

Raphaële Courtier


Other key lawyers:

Samuel Pariente; Karine Sultan


Testimonials

‘Great responsiveness. Pragmatic. Experts.’

‘Raphaële Courtier: excellent expertise and negotiation skills, great assistance in decision-making.’

‘It’s a small, close-knit team. Internal relationships are fluid and very respectful, which is perceptible in customer relations. The monitoring of successive versions of contracts is carried out perfectly until signature with excellent use of the tools.’

‘Raphaële Courtier has excellent market expertise. She combines technical expertise with great negotiating skills. Discussions always take place in a peaceful, constructive and respectful manner with the opposing party. She seeks simplicity and clarity in the drafting of contracts.’

‘Excellent communication. Samuel Pariente provides clear and concise advice, is available and attentive to clients.’

Key clients

1000mercis


Alstom


Apax Partners


Casino


Five Arrows Principal Investments


Fnac Darty


Groupe Arnault/LVMH


Groupe Courir


iliad


Monnoyeur


NJJ Telecom Europe


Rothschild & Co


Sagard


Scutum


Sonepar


Ubisoft


Vantiva


Visiativ


Rothschild


Compagnie Lebon


Mirakl


Work highlights


  • Advising Rothschild & Co Concordia on the financing aspects regarding the pending take-private of Rothschild & Co by Concordia.
  • Advised Somfy/The Despature Family in connection with ta €1bn facilities agreement.
  • Advised Iliad in connection with the placement of three bank financing facilities (aggregate value of €5bn).

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advises companies and asset management firms on the setting up of large and sophisticated credit facilities (including RCF, multi-currency and bridge loans), as well as on acquisition finance transactions. Valérie Lemaitre is the key name in the team for those aforementioned areas, while co-practice head Barthélemy Faye is routinely entrusted by African states and other institutions for their financing needs, notably on project development, energy and mining.

Practice head(s):

Valérie Lemaitre; Barthélemy Faye


Key clients

Attestor


Henry Schein


Apollo Funds


OVHcloud


Nexans


Amundi


Institut Pasteur de Dakar


The Republic of Congo


The Republic of Benin


The Republic of Côte d’Ivoire


The Republic of Chad


The Republic of Senegal


Work highlights


  • Advising Attestor on a €925 million joint investment in the context of Casino’s restructuring.
  • Advised OVH Groupe on an up to €200 million inaugural financing entered into with the European Investment Bank.
  • Advised the Republic of Chad and state-owned oil company Société des Hydrocarbures du Tchad (“SHT”), alongside Rothschild & Co. as financial adviser, in connection with the restructuring of the USD 1.3 billion oil-for-cash facility agreement granted by Glencore in 2014 and renegotiated in 2018.

De Pardieu Brocas Maffei

De Pardieu Brocas Maffei fields a sizeable team that brings together almost 40 lawyers and has a strong focus on advising banks, while also handling some work for borrowers. The team regularly assists pools of banks on the granting of syndicated loans and RCF credits to corporates (including during major debt restructuring procedures), and on the financing of LBO and public tender offers. The team is also prominent in the market for large real estate financing. The practice is headed by Christophe Gaillard and also includes Corentin Coatalem; both are experts in corporate and acquisition finance. Yannick Le Gall and Emmanuel Fatôme are two strong references in real estate finance.

Practice head(s):

Christophe Gaillard


Other key lawyers:

Emmanuel Fatôme; Yannick Le Gall; Corentin Coatalem


Testimonials

‘Great flexibility, level of service and responsiveness.’

‘The banking and finance team is recognized for its technical excellence and great commercial acumen.’

‘Excellent team in the areas of corporate and real estate financing. Unquestionably the best on the market for midcaps corporate financing.’

‘Christophe Gaillard is both technically and commercially excellent. He has an excellent understanding of business issues. It’s a pleasure to work with his team.’

‘Availability of the team and high quality of advice.’

‘Corentin Coatalem has expertise in both financing and derivatives, with a finesse and availability without comparison. Christophe Gaillard: highly appreciated expertise and experience in mid/large cap transactions.’

‘Jean-Renaud Cazali and his team are among the lawyers who excel in their field. Jean-Renaud is a very good lawyer, rigorous and pragmatic at the same time. He knows the banks and their constraints perfectly. He always delivers on time.’

‘Pierre Gebarovski: recognized expertise, great experience and knowledge of the needs and constraints of banks, commercial, available, great negotiation skills.’

Key clients

CA-CIB (CREDIT AGRICOLE GROUP)


SOCIÉTÉ GÉNÉRALE


BNP PARIBAS


LCL


NATIXIS


CDC


ING


AAREAL BANK


DEUTSCHE BANK


DEKA BANK


TIKEHAU CAPITAL


CREDIT FONCIER


ERAMET


EIB


WENDEL


TERRENA


HSBC CONTINENTAL EUROPE


IDINVEST


La BANQUE POSTALE


Chargeurs


Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits


Groupe Looping


Work highlights


  • Advising a banking pool of nearly 60 banks for the provision of more than €3.2 billion in syndicated loans, accompanied by securities, in order to finance the cash flow needs of Groupe Orpea.
  • Advising the banking pool on the setting-up of a corporate/acquisition syndicated financing of a global amount of €2,400M for acquisition financing and general needs and external growth operations of the Altrad group, specialized in scaffolding.
  • Advising the banking pool on the setting-up of a RCF corporate syndicated financing of a global amount of €2,400M for general needs of Vinci.

Dentons

Dentons is entrusted by leading French and international banks and borrowers alike, while also advising several debt funds. The firm has a solid corporate syndicated and bilateral loan practice and also advises on credit facilities refinancing. Acquisitions and asset finance also encompass good expertise. Jean-Marc Allix is a key name in those aformentioned areas. Through Philippe Max, the team also houses a high-level fund financing practice, assisting banks on the granting of large equity bridge facilities to leading funds. Of counsels Steeve Jaskierowicz and Meryll Aloro also contribute.

Practice head(s):

Pascal Jouannic


Other key lawyers:

Jean-Marc Allix; Philippe Max; Meryll Aloro


Testimonials

‘The banking and finance team is made up of lawyers with excellent technical skills and a very good knowledge of the financing operations market. It is a pragmatic team, innovative in the search for solutions and very attentive to the customer’s needs. I particularly appreciate the responsiveness in supporting operations. The service provided is always of excellent quality.’

‘Philippe Max is always available. He is always attentive and proactive. He is very involved in supporting his employees, which is a source of satisfaction for his customers. Philippe Max also has a very high level of legal expertise allowing him to intervene effectively in complex and varied operations.’

‘The team is a leader in the equity bridge facilities market in France. Their knowledge of the product, their creativity and their reaction make them one of the best Parisian firms in this segment.’

‘Best fund finance advice in France for lenders.’

‘Small expert team in our fund financing activity and good relationships’

‘Available, innovative, attentive to market developments and customer needs. ’

‘Meryll Aloro always delivers very high quality work, a guarantee of peace of mind for clients.’

‘Dentons is our first choice to support us on our equity bridge financing deals. It is a solid, quality team with research and problem-solving skills. It has in-depth market knowledge.’

Key clients

Caisse d’Epargne et de Prévoyance Hauts de France


Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel de Paris et d’Ile de France


Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel Centre-Est


CIBC Capital Markets (Europe) S.A.


Commonwealth Bank of Australia (Europe) N.V.


Intesa Sanpaolo Bank Luxembourg S.A.


National Australia Bank Europe S.A.


Standard Chartered Bank AG


ABN AMRO BANK N.V.


Laboratoires De Biologie Végétale Yves Rocher Sa


Wavestone


Barclays Bank Ireland Plc


BNP Paribas


BRED Banque Populaire


CACEIS BANK


Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank (CACIB)


Crédit Lyonnais


Forvia SE


HSBC Continental Europe


La Banque Postale


Natixis


Société Générale


Maisons de Famille


Work highlights


  • Advised long-standing client Forvia on four bi-lateral loans for an aggregate total amount of €340 million granted by  Brazilian banks and  Bank of America Europe Dac.
  • Assisted Laboratoires De Biologie Végétale Yves Rocher Sa with the refinancing of the syndicated term loan.
  • Assisted Wavestone with respect to the amendment and extension of its syndicated loan facility.

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP regularly assists borrowers and notably investment funds or their portfolio companies in the setting up of new facilities, the refinancing of loans and debts, and during acquisition finance deals. The team has recently been particularly in demand to advise on refinancing issues and completed a high-profile deal in the European rail sector. It is also well versed at advising companies facing serious indebtedness and restructuring issues through Laurent Mabilat. Leading the practice is Fabrice Grillo, a banking, finance and securitisation expert.  Stéphanie Corbière is another strong name in the team, while recently promoted partner Marie Roche also stands out. The practice also benefits from Marc Perrone‘s complementary financial services regulatory expertise.

Practice head(s):

Fabrice Grillo


Other key lawyers:

Stéphanie Corbière; Laurent Mabilat; Marie Roche; Marc Perrone


Testimonials

‘The team has a large and powerful setup to deal with all situations, in France and around the world.’

‘Laurent Mabilat is the most protective and loyal lawyer in the field in restructuring and financing.’

‘Very competent and responsive’.

Key clients

Alvest SAS


Antin Infrastructure Partners


Astorg


BNP Paribas


Charterhouse Capital Partners


Climater


CMA CGM


Cobepa


Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank


Delachaux


DIF Capital Partners


ENGIE


Ekinops


IQEQ


HSBC Continental Europe


Labelium


BPCE – Natixis


Phoenix Tower International (Blackstone)


Scalian Group


Siaci Saint Honoré


Sitel Group


The Carlyle Group


Verallia


Vermeg Group


Work highlights


  • Advised One Equity Partners on the financing of the acquisition of a majority stake, alongside the management and reinvesting investors, in Clayens NP.
  • Advised Verallia on the refinancing of its €1 billion syndicated credit facility by arranging a new €1.1 billion Sustainability Linked Loan with a pool of international banks.
  • Advised the Eurotunnel group on the refinancing of its EUR 425m fixed-to-floating Tranche C2A loan issued in May 2017.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP has strong know-how advising companies or banks on the setting up of credit facilities, including ESG-linked and revolving credit facilities. The comprehensive practice also regularly advises on acquisition finance deals, while its range of expertise also encompasses emerging markets and asset-based financing. Many leading French and international banks are clients. Louis De Longeaux is the key name within the team, with the highly experienced Régis Oréal also a key member. The team is headed by Vincent Hatton and also includes Michaël Armandou. Of note, the team strengthened further its ranks in early 2024 after re-hiring Laure Bonin  from August Debouzy.

Practice head(s):

Vincent Hatton


Other key lawyers:

Louis De Longeaux ; Régis Oréal; Michaël Armandou; Laure Bonin


Testimonials

‘High level advice to borrowers for syndicated financing’.

‘Louis de Longeaux is an excellent professional, calm, serious, pragmatic, who has a keen sense of compromise. He has developed leading expertise in impact loans (sustainability-linked loans).’

Key clients

Bank of America Merrill Lynch


Devialet


Essor


Financière Mauffrey


InnovaFeed


JP Morgan


Kering


Lisi


RTE


Australia New Zealand Bank (as panel firm)


Bank of America Merrill Lynch


BNP Paribas (as panel firm)


BPCE – Natixis group (as panel firm)


Bpifrance


Citi


Crédit Agricole (as panel firm)


European Investment Bank


International Finance Corporation


JPMorgan


Société Générale (as panel firm)


Arkema


Agence Française de Développement (AFD)


Air Liquide


Airbus


Alten


Bureau Veritas


Compagnie des Alpes


Danone


Elo (Auchan)


EssilorLuxottica


JCDecaux


L’Oréal


Maisons du Monde


Monoprix


Onet


Orange


Proparco


Safran


Schneider Electric


SEB


Société Foncière Lyonnaise


Stellantis


Tarkett


Vinci


Worldline


Work highlights


  • Advised L’Oréal on the financing of the acquisition of Aesop, the major Australian luxury cosmetics brand.
  • Advised Schneider Electric on the financing of its takeover bid over Aveva, a company listed on the UK market.

Paul Hastings LLP

Headed by  Olivier Vermeulen, Paul Hastings LLP's practice has a strong focus on investment funds and is a leader in the niche field of fund financing where it assists PE and infrastructure funds with large and complex financing deals, including equity bridge loans. The team is also highly active advising sponsors and alternative debt funds on the setting up of unitranche financings in relation to mid to upper mid-cap transactions, as well as advising on debt and lending or refinancing of companies. Tereza Courmont Vlkova and Marc Zerah  are other key names.

Practice head(s):

Olivier Vermeulen


Other key lawyers:

Tereza Courmont Vlkova; Marc Zerah


Testimonials

‘The team stands out for its professionalism, diligence and dedication. They have great ability to understand complex legal problems and to propose effective and pragmatic solutions with unfailing responsiveness thanks in particular to the direct involvement of the partners.’

‘Olivier Vermeulen and Tereza Courmont Vlkova have the perfect combination of technique, market knowledge and pragmatism. ’

‘Dedicated team, very mobilized and attentive to customers.’

Key clients

Alcentra


Antin Infrastructure Partners


Apax


Arcmont Asset Management


Ardian


Astorg


Capza


Cheyne Capital


Equistone Partners Europe


FCDE (Fonds de consolidation et de développement des entreprises)


GLAS


Goldman Sachs


HLD


Keensight Capital


Latour Capital


Meridiam


Mirova


Naxicap


Oakley Capital


PAI Partners


Tikehau Investment Management


Work highlights


  • Advised Arcmont Asset Management and Macquarie on the unitranche financing of the acquisition of A2MAC1 by funds managed by Providence Equity Partners and Five Arrows Principal Investments.
  • Advised Alcentra on the unitranche financing of the acquisition of Equativ, a Paris- and New York-based advertising technology company, by Bridgepoint.
  • Advised Tikehau Investment Management on financing the acquisition of Cruiseline, a leader in the online sale of cruises in the Mediterranean, North Sea, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP reorganised its team in 2023 through the hiring of Jean-Christophe David and Géraldine Lezmi from Allen & Overy LLP, which has bolstered the firm's capabilities to act for debt funds and further reinforced its sponsor-side position and debt restructuring skills. The group is highly specialised in leveraged finance, while also advising on credit facilities and tackling refinancing work. The team also worked recently on a headline debt restructuring case in the retail sector. James Clarke heads the team alongside David and Lezmi. Olivier Jauffret retired at the end of 2023.

Practice head(s):

James Clarke; Jean-Christophe David; Géraldine Lezmi


Key clients

Montagu


TowerBrook


Hayfin Capital Management


Capza Flex Equity


Adagia Partners


Ardian


Groupe Paprec


Infopro


3i


IK


Keensight Capital


Barings Asset Management


Groupe Casino


Arcmont


Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie has considerable expertise advising on syndicated lending, and trade and export finance deals pertaining to emerging markets, and particularly Turkey and Africa. The Paris team assists leading French and international institutions with the granting of large ECA-backed financings, including on ESG0-linked loans and sovereign financings. The practice also handles African acquisition finance work and is involved in domestic activity advising on loans and funds financing. The practice is led by the highly experienced Michael Foundethakis, with Gonzague Basso  and counsel Thomas Lefebvre as other key figures.

Practice head(s):

Michael Foundethakis


Other key lawyers:

Gonzague Basso; Thomas Lefebvre


Testimonials

‘Great knowledge of their clients, availability and responsiveness. Able to support clients on a large number of files.’

‘Gonzague Basso: very available and involved.’

‘A wealth of experience.’

Key clients

Crédit Agricole


BNP Paribas


Société Générale


Natixis


Ardian (formerly AXA Private Equity)


African Export-Import Bank


PROPARCO


Bank of America Merrill Lynch


MUFG Bank


Commerzbank


SMBC


Bank of China


Work highlights


  • Advising BNP Paribas and CaixaBank in relation to a EUR 600,000,000 EKN (the Swedish exportcredit agency) covered facilities agreement provided to Bouygues Telecom SA to finance the import of 5G equipment from EricssonAB in Sweden.
  • Acting for the lenders led by SMBC Bank International, with MUFG Bank as agent, on a USD 400,000,000 Japan International Cooperation Agency (“JICA”) supported covered facilities agreement to African Export-Import Bank.
  • Acting for bioMérieux in obtaining EUR 600,000,000 dual currency and ESG-linked financing from a syndicate of banks led by Crédit Agricole and Natixis.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper has restructured its team with the arrival of Sophie Lok in early 2023, a specialist in acquisition and corporate finance, and the promotion of real estate and structured finance specialist Romain Guénin to partner in May 2023. The team, headed by real estate finance expert Erwan Lacheteau and which also includes project finance specialist Eric Villateau, is able to offer a good array of expertise to lenders and borrowers alike. The practice is notably retained by leading US investment funds in need of property financing expertise including on complex financing and restructuring deals. The team also a strong involvement alongside lenders and banks on LBO financing and assists both banks and corporations with the negotiation of credit facilities.

Practice head(s):

Erwan Lacheteau


Other key lawyers:

Eric Villateau; Sophie Lok; Romain Guénin


Testimonials

‘Very correctly structured team, both on French deals and cross-borders; real ease in managing cross-border operations in different countries.’

‘Perfect knowledge of the profession and its technicalities, total availability, transparency, ethics and reliability.’

‘Very professional, profound and tailor-made legal advice; extraordinary knowledge of sectors, markets and legal context; very pleasant communication & collaboration; strong responsiveness and responsibility .’

‘Strong understanding of client’s needs leads to tailor-made and effective legal advice; individuals are fully engaged, dedicated and responsive; professional and pleasant and efficient in times of pressure.’

‘Great technical skills, market awareness, a stoic defender of creditors’ interest and great communication skills.’

‘Sophie Lok is a stand-out lawyer – she has great technical skills, easily navigates the land mines in the documentation and is a great communicator’

‘Great availability, they are very responsive and are able to deal with complex situations while maintaining a speed of execution allowing deadlines to be met. Agility and adaptability are also strong markers within a team which constantly seeks to find pragmatic solutions while maintaining the appropriate legal framework.

‘Sophie Lok is available, attentive, rigorous while demonstrating adaptability in order to move cases forward. Her talents as a negotiator and speaker have enabled us to carry out numerous operations. ’

Key clients

Société Générale group


BNP Paribas


Blackstone Group International Partners LLP


The Carlyle Group


Natixis and Caisse d’Epargne and Banque Populaire (BPCE group)


Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Banking


Caisse des Dépôts (Banque des Territoires)


ING Bank N.V.


Norddeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale (Nord/LB)


FMO (Nederlandse Financierings-Maatschappij voor Ontwikkelingslanden N.V)


GLP (Gazeley)


Brookfield/Edyn


Fortress


Invesco


Mount Street


Pricoa / PGIM


Crédit Industrial et Commercial


Oxford Properties Group


Work highlights


  • Advised NORD/LB on a €156,000,000 financing facility for Covage Infra to accelerate Covage’s development plan to connect 100% of its businesses to fiber.
  • Advising Carlyle in relation to the equity bridge financing of acquisitions of logistics and light industrial assets located in France to create a new logistics portfolio.
  • Advising a pool of 21 banks in a 1 billion (including 505 million extension) corporate financing for Korian in a highly sensitive sector.

Gibson Dunn

Headed by Amanda Bevan-De Bernède, Gibson Dunn‘s team has in-depth knowledge of the private equity sector, working alongside investment funds and alternative lenders on mid-cap transactions. The banking and finance team is also a key component of the firm’s leading debt restructuring and insolvency practice where it often assists bondholders and debtors with large debt restructuring cases. Finally, the team’s broad range of expertise also spans real estate finance and assisting companies with corporate finance and refinancing transactions. Of counsel Julia-Barbara Michalon also contributes. Of note, the firm added project finance expertise in Autumn 2023 through the hiring of an experienced team from Linklaters led by Darko Adamovic, who also handles some complementary derivatives work.

Practice head(s):

Amanda Bevan de-Bernède


Other key lawyers:

Julia-Barbara Michalon


Testimonials

‘Highly technical, the banking and finance team stands out for its pragmatic and proactive approach. Mastery of the commercial and financial aspects of an operation.’

‘Amanda Bevan de-Bernède is a first-rate professional who combines rigor, emotional intelligence and speed.’

‘The team is able to intervene on leverage acquisition finance/corporate finance files as well as on debt restructuring files with the same quality of service. ’

Key clients

Ad Hoc Group of Secured Lenders to Technicolor


Financiere SNOP Dunois (FSD)


Kartesia


Casino Guichard-Perrachon


KKR / +Simple


Crouzet


Tikehau Ace Capital


Arc Holdings


Work highlights


  • Advising major automotive supplier Financiere SNOP Dunois in connection with the refinancing of its existing indebtedness, the renegotiation of certain aspect of a participative loan guaranteed by the French State and the setting up of a second participative loan.
  • Advised Tikehau Ace Capital and Bpifrance Investissement on the financing of their acquisition of the Crouzet Group, a specialised manufacturer of mechatronic components in the aerospace, automotive and transportation industries, by way of a unitranche bonds issue.
  • Advised certain existing creditors holding participations in French and New York governed facilities of the Technicolor group, in connection with financing for Technicolor Creative Studios to facilitate the refinancing of the existing indebtedness of Technicolor S.A. and certain of its affiliates in the context of the spin-off of the Technicolor Creative Studios division and listing.

Goodwin

Goodwin has a strong involvement alongside private equity sponsors and debt funds which it assists with the setting up of new credit or refinancing facilities or on LBO financing deals, while also advising several banks. The team, which is mostly active on the mid-cap market, is expert at dealing with mezzanine, unitranche, revolving credit and senior lending facilities. It also recently assisted several banks with the refinancing of a company in distress. Practice head Arnaud Fromion has a wealth of experience, and Frédéric Guilloux and Adrien Paturaud are other strong names in the team.

Practice head(s):

Arnaud Fromion


Other key lawyers:

Frédéric Guilloux; Adrien Paturaud


Testimonials

‘Good availability.’

‘Excellent practice knowledge, agility and strong track-record, mostly on the mid-cap market.’

Key clients

Access Capital Partners


Arcmont Asset Management


Ardian


Ares Management


Artemid


Bank of Ireland


Barings


BlackRock


BNP Paribas


Bpifrance


Capza


Cerea Partner


Crédit Industriel et Commercial (CIC)


Crédit Agricole CIB


CVC Credit Partners


EFESO Consulting group


Five Arrows


 


Groupe Gorgé|(French industrial group active in civil and military robotics (drones), fire and nuclear safety, and 3D printing, founded in 1990 by Jean-Pierre Gorgé and led since 2011 by his son Raphaël Gorgé. Listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange, the group is majority owned by the Gorgé family)


Hayfin|(One of Europe’s leading alternative asset management firms)


Holdco|(A holding company controlled by Mr Xavier Niel)


Iliad|(French telecoms and media group owned by Xavier Niel, billionaire businessman)


IK Partners|(mid-market European private equity group)


La Financière Patrimoniale d’Investissement


Labelys Group


Latour Capital Management


LGT Capital Partners


Naxicap Partners


NJJ Telecom Europe


Paragon Partners


Rothschild & Co


Sagard


Tikehau Capital


Tokheim Services Group


Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP  is on the panel of many of the world’s leading banks, and also assists alternatives lenders and sponsors providing large resources which allow it to handle a large variety of work: credit facilities, acquisition and LBO financing, as well as asset and property financing, restructuring and sustainable financing. The team is a key destination for mid-cap transactions but also recently advised on the financing of a large battery manufacturing plant. Sabine Bironneau-Loy and Alexander Premont co-head the practice, which also includes Cassandre Porgès.

Practice head(s):

Sabine Bironneau-Loy; Alexander Premont


Other key lawyers:

Cassandre Porgès


Testimonials

‘Dynamic and very available team.’

‘Sabine Bironneau-Loy is particularly involved, listens and looks for solutions.’

‘Very detail-oriented, good at completing projects.’

‘Great negotiation skills’.

‘Very responsive team that is proactive when situations are complex. Impeccable quality of service.’

‘The exceptional Sabine Bironneau is surrounded by a very competent team and very involved.’

‘Exceptional availability, multiple skills of the team, very good listening skills.’

‘Alexander Premont is certainly the most efficient and competent lawyer in his field in the area. His ability to follow all his clients’ files down to the smallest detail is extraordinary, he always remains present and committed despite the large and efficient team that accompanies him.’

Key clients

AccorInvest


Banque Populaire Rives de Paris


BNP Paribas


Bred Banque Populaire


CIC


Montefiore Investment


Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank


Crédit Lyonnais


French Ministry of Finance


HSBC Continental Europe


ICG Real Estate Investments VI S.à.r.l


Infravia Capital Partners


Seven2 (Apax)


MBO &Co


Riverbank S.A.


Roundshield


Société Générale


Verkor SAS


Tikehau ACE Capital


Tikehau Investment Management


TowerBrook Capital Partners


Vale New Caledonia (now Prony Resources New Caledonia)


Wonderbox SAS


Work highlights


  • Advised Verkor on the financing of a €150m R&D plant in Grenoble and a €1.5bn factory in Dunkerque for the manufacturing of low carbon lithium-ion battery production.
  • Advising Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel de Paris et d’Ile de France and Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank and a pool of six banks on the financing of Laboratoires Delbert.
  • Advised Wendel on the financing of the acquisition of Scalian Group.

Jones Day

Jones Day assists banks, alternative debt providers and borrowers, notably startups and technology companies, with the negotiation of loan facilities and refinancing, as well as with acquisition and property finance transactions. The Paris team mostly advises on mid-cap transactions and regularly combines forces with colleagues from the firm’s other international offices. Co-heads of practice Frédéric Gros and Diane Sénéchal and of counsel Isabelle Maury  are the key names in the team. Of note, the firm strengthened its practice in December 2023 through the hiring of Carine Mou Si Yan, who was previously with Orrick.

Practice head(s):

Frederic Gros; Diane Sénéchal; Sophie Chevallier; Philippe Goutay; Jean-Guillaume de Tocqueville


Other key lawyers:

Isabelle Maury; Carine Mou Si Yan


Testimonials

Excellent and very professional team.’

Key clients

Allianz Global Invest


Barings Asset Management


BNPParibas


Candriam


Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A.


Crédit Agricole CIB and Crédit Agricole Nord de France


KAES PHOSPHATE HOLDINGS, LLC/OCH FERTILIZER, LLC


Natixis


Pemberton Capital Advisors


Sanofi


SFIL


Thales


Tikehau Capital/Tikehau Capital Advisors


Tikehau Private Debt


Kirkland & Ellis LLP

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is proficient at advising leading sponsors and borrowers on complex and large loan financing and acquisition finance deals. Led by Kalish Mullen, the Parisian team often co-leads on deals alongside its London counterparts, advising clients on large LBO finance transactions and on amend and extend deals, high yield and bond financing, sometimes combining Euros and US dollars currencies.

Practice head(s):

Kalish Mullen


Testimonials

Very high availability. Excellent vision of market practices with a broad field of intervention. Ability to defend tooth and nail the interests of their client.’

‘Kallish Mullen is very available, very friendly and humble, it’s a pleasure to work with him. He is efficient, has good technical skills, an is flexible while defending his client’s interests.’

‘The team is innovative and particularly sophisticated. ’

‘Kalish Mullen stands out for his technical expertise, his ability to calmly manage emergency situations and complicated negotiations. He is constructive and promotes the conclusion of a deal.’

Key clients

Searchlight Capital


BC Partners


D’Ieteren Group


Cinven


Core Equity


Partners Group


Platinum Equity


Banijay


AXA IM Alts


Arctos Partners LP


Provalliance


Emeria


SK Capital


Ipackchem Group


HgCapital


PAI Partners


Advent


Idemia Group


Work highlights


  • Advised Core Equity Holdings on the implementation of a new financing for the Provalliance Group in order to refinance its existing senior indebtedness.
  • Advised Banijay Group on the amendment and extension of its EUR453 million term loan facility, its USD460 million term loan facility, and the incurrence of additional indebtedness in an amount equivalent to EUR200 million.
  • Advised HgCapital, an investor in European and transatlantic software and services businesses, on its majority investment in Nomadia, a European SaaS provider of smart mobility solutions.

Mayer Brown

Mayer Brown has a strong track record in the acquisition and LBO finance field where the team has extensive experience advising leading private equity funds on the financing of their transactions through debt and bond facilities. The practice also assists companies under their clients’ portfolio on corporate finance and refinancing transactions. Finally, the team also handles some prominent real estate finance work. The practice is headed by the experienced Patrick Teboul and includes Maud Bischoff, with strong support provided by Marion Minard and Constance Bouchet.

Practice head(s):

Patrick Teboul


Other key lawyers:

Maud Bischoff;  Marion Minard; Constance Bouchet


Testimonials

‘Very good interpersonal skills, strong execution capacity, mastery of complex processes, top of the range in terms of quality of service and innovative, fluid collaboration.’

‘The team is extremely available. It has very good technical expertise as well as perfect knowledge of the sector in which it operates. It is also extremely pleasant to interact and work with this team.’

‘Patrick Teboul is extremely available, always provides very good advice and knows how to be pragmatic. He knows how to be there when you need his help. Marion Minard is also extremely competent and knows how to perfectly defend the interests of her clients while remaining pragmatic.’

Key clients

Amexio


Bridgepoint Development Capital


Corum Asset Management


Cristal Union


Coutot-Roehrig


EKKIA (Equis Holding)


Elis


Eurazeo


Europa Capital


Feu Vert


Grape Hospitality


Hivest Capital Partners


ICG (Intermediate Capital Group)


LBO France


Montefiore Investment


Natural Grass


NG Travel


Oaktree Capital Management


Primonial


Qualium Investissement


Sabena technics


Waterland Private Equity


Work highlights


  • Advised the Grape Hospitality group on the refinancing of a bank debt related to its 86 hotels owned and operated in France and six other European countries.
  • Advised Bridgepoint on the financing aspects of the acquisition of a majority stake in CAST and the launch of a mandatory simplified tender offer to acquire the remaining CAST shares.
  • Advised Feu Vert on the refinancing of its existing indebtness.

McDermott Will & Emery AARPI

McDermott Will & Emery AARPI‘s practice is particularly recommended for its ability to advise private equity, debt funds and leading banks on their financing needs. The team notably advises on high-profile equity bridge and NAV fund financings. It is also highly active on the mid to upper mid-cap market for LBO and acquisition financing, including unirate and mezzanine financings. The practice is co-headed by Pierre-Arnoux Mayoly, and counsels Shirin Deyhim and Aurélien Jugand.

Practice head(s):

Pierre-Arnoux Mayoly; Shirin Deyhim; Aurélien Jugand


Testimonials

‘The team and more particularly Pierre-Arnoux Mayoly and Aurélien Jugand are among the best references in the market for the small to upper mid cap financing. Excellent quality of services. The team is particularly responsive and leads negotiations that combine advice and pragmatism. ’

‘Professionalism, responsiveness, rigor.’

‘Aurélien Jugand is available, professional and constructive in negotiations.’

‘Good knowledge of the market, trends and ability to think out of the box to find solutions. Real partner involvement. ’

‘Solid team with good stability over the years.’

‘Pierre-Arnoux Mayoly and Shirin Deyhim show great professionalism, are solution-oriented and a have a great understanding of EBF and NV facilities. They take initiatives.’

Key clients

Andera Partners et ActoMezz


Abénex Capital


Aldebaran


Ardian


Banque Palatine


BNP Paribas


Banque Populaire Rives de Paris


CIC


Eurazeo Private Debt


Five Arrows Principal Investments


Indigo Capital


Siparex


Tikehau Capital


Work highlights


  • Advised Andera Partners on a €51m LBO acquisition of Financière le Bourget, MattCath, Financière Pinarello and their subsidiaries.
  • Advised Andera Partners on the implementation of a €30m bonds issuance by OXFinance B.V.

Nabarro Béraud Avocats

One of France’s few corporate finance dedicated boutiques, Nabarro Béraud Avocats is led by an experienced team which has a strong involvement advising lenders and particularly international private debt funds on complex LBO and acquisition bond financing transactions, while also advising on credit facilities. The highly experienced Jonathan Nabarro co-heads the team alongside Magali Béraud, which also includes counsel Anthony Minzière.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Nabarro; Magali Beraud


Other key lawyers:

Anthony Minzière


Testimonials

‘Fast and efficient, excellent lawyers.’

‘Anthony Minzière is exceptional. He delivers documents that are perfect and on time. He knows every point of his documentation. For me, he is the best lawyer in LBO financing on the Parisian market. Jonathan Nabarro has seen it all. He can find a solution to any problem.’

Key clients

Alcentra


Alizon Participation


Altice


Antaria


Apera Asset Management GmbH


Arcmont Asset Management


Arkéa Banque Entreprises et Institutionnels


Ares Management


Barings


BPI France


Caisse des Dépôts et Placements du Québec


Capza


CIC Private Debt


Eurazeo Investment Manager


FrenchFood


Goldman Sachs


Herez


ICD


IK Investment Partners


JP Morgan


Koesio


La Maison Bleue


LGT private debt


LFPI


LNA Sante


Martin Belaysoud Expansion


Naxicap


Omnes Capital


Perceva


Reworld Media


Silverfleet


SBM


Soler


Umanis


Zencap Asset Management


Work highlights


  • Advising Ares Management Limited in relation to an unitranche bond issue programme for the purpose of financing the acquisition of Tiger Finco and Tiger Newco.
  • Advising the lenders on the implementation of a bond issue programme for an initial total amount of €160,000,000 to be subscribed by LGT, Alantra and Cerea funds in the context of the acquisition of Ecobag Holding SAS and In.Pack Machinery S.r.l. by Ambienta.
  • Advising Arcmont Asset Management Limited on setting up a USD 75,586,000 bond financing for CES II.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright is a strong name in the asset finance field, particularly among leading banks undertaking deals in the transport, project and commodity trading areas, including in relation to Africa. The hiring of the highly regarded Kamel Ben Salah, formerly with Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I., added property finance expertise to its offering. The team also regularly advises banks on the granting of credit facilities to major corporations and handles some acquisition finance work. The team is headed by transport asset finance specialist Christine Ezcutari. Other key names in the team include Alexandre Roth and Janet Butterworth.

Practice head(s):

Christine Ezcutari


Other key lawyers:

Alexandre Roth; Kamel Ben Salah; Janet Butterworth


Testimonials

‘The Paris office is very well qualified, especially in the field of international financing transactions with BPIAE coverage, and gives clear advice’.

‘Alexandre Roth has excellent knowledge concerning BPIAE loan coverage and LMA based loan documentation.’

‘Alexandre Roth is very responsive and supportive.’

Key clients

HSBC CONTINENTAL EUROPE


Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank


Bpifrance Assurance Export


BNP Paribas


Oikocredit international


Natixis Corporate and Investment Bank


MUFG bank


Gunvor SA


Triodos


Mercuria Energy Trading SA


CA Indosuez (Switzerland) SA


Work highlights


  • Advised HSBC CONTINENTAL EUROPE, BNP PARIBAS, LCL, BECM, SOCFIM on the refinancing of an existing bank debt amounting to €444m and the partial financing of general corporate needs of the borrowers (including SLL-compliant capex works) amounting to €30m.
  • Advised HSBC as lender on a committed guarantee facility to Alstom Holdings.
  • Advised Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank with respect to the financing and subsequent syndication of 100 electric buses manufactured by BYD Europe BV to be operated by Nobina Finland, with a guarantee by Nobina AB in Sweden.

Stephenson Harwood

Stephenson Harwood has solid credentials in the field of asset finance, particularly shipping where the highly experienced Alain Gautron advises lenders and borrowers on the market’s largest transactions. Through Yann Beckers, the firm also offers solid general banking and finance expertise that covers acquisition finance and complex fund financing deals on behalf of leading private equity funds. Other names to note are structured finance expert Jeremy Grant, who advises on emerging market financing, and new hire Florent Rigaud, who joined in June 2023 from Reed Smith and is a project finance specialist.

Practice head(s):

Alain Gautron; Yann Beckers; Jeremy Grant; Florent Rigaud


Other key lawyers:

Hugo Le Ridou


Testimonials

‘Skilled, responsiveness, availability and good technique’.

‘Alain Gautron demonstrates a capacity for permanent adaptation and a remarkable availability at all times. ’

‘Exceptional service and a great firm to work with. Responses are always provided in a timely fashion and always broken down to make it possible to understand the legal aspects. Good guidance also on commercial matters.’

‘Hugo Le Ridou and Florent Rigaud: exceptional lawyers, extremely helpful, knowledgeable and extremely valuable.’

‘A very competent and very responsive team which has been able to perfectly integrate the specificities of its client’s sector of activity, its mode of operation as well as its needs and which knows how to have a proactive and protective attitude of its client’s interests. A performance well above the market.’

‘Florent Rigaud is an excellent lawyer both technically and relationally, who has been able to build real credibility and a solid and lasting relationship of trust with his client. Responsiveness and proactivity well above average. A real pleasure to work with him. I can’t recommend him enough.’

‘Responsive. Innovative. Ingenious. Reliable.’

‘Yann Beckers: client oriented, very personable and competent in financing documentation.’

Key clients

Five Arrows Managers


Sienna Private Credit (Ex-Acofi)


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations


Bpifrance


Access Capital Partners


Arkéa Banque Entreprises & Institutionnels


BPCE


Natixis


Eurazeo


Touax


Société du Grand Paris


Crédit Industriel et Commercial (CIC)


Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC)


Accor


Compagnie du Ponant


Caisse d’Epargne Languedoc-Rousillon (CELR)


JP Morgan Asset Management


BNP Paribas


Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection


JSC Halyk Bank


Work highlights


  • Advising major banks on a large-cap asset financing deal in the field of transport.
  • Advising Olympique Lyonnais on the financing of the construction of the LDLC Arena.

Watson Farley & Williams LLP

Watson Farley & Williams LLP is a well-known name in the field of asset finance among leading banking institutions. Leveraging its international platform and with in-house French and UK law capabilities, the Paris team often advises on high-end shipping finance deals while also handling project finance, export credit, trade and commodity finance in relation to Africa and the French renewables energy sector (including the construction of new battery storage facilities). The group's workload also includes advising on acquisition finance. The experienced Laurence Martinez-Bellet heads the practice, which also includes Alexia Russell, Philippe Wolanski and Rachel Campbell.

Practice head(s):

Laurence Martinez-Bellet


Other key lawyers:

Alexia Russell; Philippe Wolanski; Rachel Campbell


Testimonials

‘The team is very involved in files, available and very commercial.’

‘Philippe Wolanski is available and easy to deal with. A great professional on trust issues.’

Key clients

BNP Paribas


Bpifrance


Crédit Agricole


Société Générale


Group BPCE/Natixis


La Banque Postale


HSBC


SACE


Amundi


Banque Populaire


Amarenco Group


Eolmed


Ocean Winds


Work highlights


  • Advising HSBC on US$300m Push Facility with SACE for Nogaholding.
  • Advising Société Générale on the financing and delivery of the 174,000 cbm Class LNG vessel “Lech Kaczyński” built and completed in December 2022 by Hyundai Heavy Industry Co., Ltd., South Korea.
  • Advising a group of lessors, together owning approximately 30 aircraft and/or aircraft engines in Lion Air’s fleet, regarding safeguard and receivership proceedings initiated before the French courts relating to the French subsidiaries of Indonesian airline group Lion Air.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP is a top name for LBO and private equity acquisition finance work and is regularly entrusted by leading private equity funds and debt funds for advice in this area. The firm regularly advises on mid- to large-cap deals, while also providing advice on loan facilities and refinancing matters. The firm also handles work for corporations and occasionally for banks. Practice head Paul Lombard and Thomas Binet are the names to note for acquisition finance, with Igor Kukhta  also a key practitioner.

Practice head(s):

Paul Lombard


Other key lawyers:

Thomas Binet; Igor Kukhta; Ralph Unger; Martin Jouvenot


Testimonials

‘Strong commercial sense. Very good technical skills and mastery of subjects. Great proactivity.’

 ‘Very good team which has a lot of internal resources and has always responded with quality work and respect for deadlines. The team is best-in class on the French LBO financing market.’

‘Paul Lombard: his experience, his technical competence and his commercial and consensual character make him one of the best lawyers on the French market. ’

‘Very available, responsive and professional team. Very good support.’

‘Paul Lombard, Ralph Unger and Martin Jouvenot all demonstrate great intellectual qualities, rigor and pedagogy.’

‘Excellent team. Professionalism, strong commitment and responsiveness. Great capacity to adapt on financing (banking, unitranche, others).’

‘Thomas Binet and Paul Lombard are exceptional in negotiating financing documentation. In addition to a perfect understanding of all the issues, they are keen to explain the key points and greatly facilitate the sponsor’s decision-making. Their legal expertise allows them to be completely autonomous, and their extensive experience allows them to only raise the points necessary for the client’s arbitration. They provide substantial assistance, perfectly understand the clients’ issues, and defend them to the top. Very high quality service with impeccable commitment from Thomas and Paul.’

‘Thomas Binet has always demonstrated great professionalism as well as a lot of responsiveness and pragmatism. Whether in banking or unitranche deals, Thomas was able to guide us as best as possible during the negotiations of the legal documentation, always with the same objective: obtaining a deal, and this under the best conditions for his client.’

Key clients

Ardian


Astorg


Barings


BlackRock Private Debt


Bluegem


BNP Paribas


CACIB


CVC


Eurazeo


Five Arrows


GSquare


H.I.G. Whitehorse


IK Partners


Latour Capital


Macquarie Capital


Montefiore


Motion Equity Partners


PAI Partners


Pemberton


Tikehau


Work highlights


  • Advising a syndicate of lenders on a three-year amend-and-extend of 1L and 2L term loans.
  • Advising Céréa Partners on the financing acquisition of Novepan.
  • Advising Motion Equity Partners on the financing of the acquisition of Tournaire.

Archers A.A.R.P.I.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Maurice Gaillard; Paul-Henri de Cabissole; Raphaële Cremona


Testimonials

‘Good knowledge of the market. Great professionalism and very attentive to the needs of its customers’.

Proactive, good technical skills, client-oriented’.

Key clients

Aareal Bank


Banque Européenne du Crédit Mutuel


Cheyne Capital


Colony Capital


PBB


La Française REM


Natixis


BC Partners


Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank


BNP Paribas


Société Générale


Ardian


Ardian


Greystar


Iroko


Caisse d’Epargne et de Prévoyance Ile-de-France


AYACHE

Practice head(s):

Alain Levy


Other key lawyers:

David Puzenat


Testimonials

‘They are capable of handling multinational large sponsor driven deals with a high level of expertise. They have a strong international network of law firms.’

‘Alain Levy is excellent in all what he does. Professionally brilliant, always available and last but not least a very nice guy. David Puzenat has learned his skill set over many years. Extremely calm and competent.’

‘The team is quite responsive and always available.’

‘Excellent team. Great technical knowledge.’

‘The team has excellent knowledge of the financing market, with a very pragmatic approach. High availability and adaptability which allows for rapid success.’

‘Very responsive and client-oriented. Fantastic in handling complex international financing matters.’

‘Alain Levy is simply exceptional in handling financing matters for both borrowers and lenders. He is very approachable, smart and a pleasure to work with. He is also heading an exceptional team where in particular David Puzenat stands out.’

‘Alain Levy and David Puzenat are both always available and responsive to answer questions. The announced deadlines are always respected.’

Key clients

Sagard


Intermediate Capital Group (ICG)


Towerbrook


Eduservices


Credit Agricole Nord de France


Capza


Groupe Open


JJA


Proskauer


NewGo


Septodont


BDGS Associés

BDGS Associés

Practice head(s):

Yaëlle Cohen


Key clients

Agence des Participations de l’Etat


Bouygues Telecom


Bpifrance


Butler Industries


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations


Crédit Agricole Assurances (Predica)


Icade SA


Sagard


Eiffel Investment Group CONFIDENTIAL


Enedis CONFIDENTIAL


Raise Impact CONFIDENTIAL


Sopra Steria


Work highlights


  • Advised Bouygues Telecom on the financing of the acquisition, via a joint venture with Phoenix Tower International (PTI), of circa 2,000 telecoms sites.
  • Advised Icade SA on the debt portability of circa €1,5 billion financial indebtedness and the implementation of a €550 million bridge term loans facility.
  • Advising Epic Bpifrance, Bpifrance Investissement and L-GAM on the financing of their direct and indirect acquisition of a stake in Biose Industrie.

Bird & Bird

Practice head(s):

Boris Martor


Other key lawyers:

Laurence Hanley; Jessica Derocque; Sébastien Hoff


Testimonials

‘High availability and strong advice.’

‘Jessica Derocque: efficiency, availability and commitment.’

Key clients

Ecobank Niger


Agence Française de Développement (AFD)


Norddeutsche Landesbank – Girozentrale


Tikehau Capital


Société Air France


Amea Power


Banque Palatine


Caisse d’Epargne et de Prevoyance Ile De France


Bred Banque Populaire


BNP Paribas


Caisse Régionale du Crédit Agricole Mutuel du Finistère


Banque Populaire Grand Ouest


Barclays Bank Plc


Work highlights


  • Advising Amea Power on the financing phase 2 and phase 3 of the largest solar park in West Africa located in Blitta, Togo having a total capacity of 70MW.
  • Advising Tikehau Capital on the implementation of a financing and partnership with Carb0n for a maximum amount of €25m.
  • Advising Société Air France in the context of JOLCO financing with a sustainability linked loan of one new Airbus A350-900.

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

Practice head(s):

David Blondel


Other key lawyers:

Olivier Borenstejn; Cyrille Rumen


Testimonials

‘High availability and adaptation to sometimes tight deadlines. Ability to manage difficulties and provide solutions.’

‘David Blondel provides unreservedly very good advice. He has the particularity of remaining calm and providing solutions to points of tension. He shows very good respect for the client and opposing parties. Good technical knowledge. ’

‘Great professionalism and great availability.’

Key clients

Credit Agricole d’Aquitaine


Crédit Agricole du Languedoc


Auxifip


Crédit Agricole du Nord Est


Crédit Agricole Pyrénées Gascogne


Crédit Agricole Nord de France


Hélia Conseil


Natixis


Caisse d’Epargne Ile-de-France


Caisse d’Epargne Aquitaine Poitou Charentes


Crédit Coopératif


BPCE Energeco


Banque Palatine


Caisse d’Epargne Languedoc-Roussillon


Caisse d’Epargne de Midi-Pyrénées


Caisse d’Epargne CEPAC


Bpifrance


BNP Paribas


Arkea


La Banque Postale


Société Générale


Reden Solar


Tenergie


Orbimed


Enerfip


RGIS Group


TP ICAP Europe


Landesbank SAAR


MUFG Bank


KEB Hana Bank


Norddeutsche Landesbank – Girozentrale


Cheyne Capital


Tristan Capital Partners


Work highlights


  • Advised Natixis on the refinancing of the acquisition of a building located on 7 rue Meyerbeer in Paris and rented to General Motors Retail.
  • Advised Hélia Conseil, Crédit Agricole d’Aquitaine and a consortium of banks on the refinancing of the banking indebtedness of the Berkem Group and on the refinancing of the acquisition by the Berkem Group of BIOPRESS and i.Bioceuticals.
  • Advised Tristan Capital Partners, as arranger and bondholder, in the context of the financing of the refurbishment works of Hôtel Scipion by GDG Investissements.

CMS Francis Lefebvre

Practice head(s):

Grégory Benteux; Alexandre Bordenave; Geoffrey Levesque; Alexandre Chazot


Testimonials

‘Very attentive and look for solutions.’

‘Alexandre Bordenave has real expertise and understands clients’ needs. ’

‘Great availability and very good listening skills. ’

Key clients

Bpifrance


Natixis


BPCE Lease


La Banque Postale


Bel


Nadia


Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel des Côtes d’Armor


Banque Populaire Grand Ouest


BNP Paribas


KBC Bank


Penta Infra BV


Work highlights


  • Advised Bel on the refinancing of its multi-currency revolving credit facility.
  • Advised Groupe Nadia in relation to a LMBO loan arranged by Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel de l’Anjou et du Maine et Banque Populaire Grand Ouest for the reorganisation of the shareholding of the Group.
  • Advised Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel des Côtes d’Armor, Banque Populaire Grand Ouest, BNP Paribas and KBC Bank in relation to a facility agreement for an amount of EUR 100,000,000 to the benefit of Ekinops to finance its external growth strategy.

Cornet Vincent Ségurel

Practice head(s):

Bertrand Coste; Matthieu Guignard; André Watbot


Testimonials

Swift and proactive.’

Key clients

Arkea Banque Entreprises et Institutionnels


Group CIC


Group Banque Populaire


Group Crédit Agricole


Crédit Lyonnais


Unexo Financement


Group Caisse d’Epargne


Work highlights


  • Advising the bank syndicate in connection with the acquisition of Sarbacane’s holding company.
  • Advising the mandated arranger and lenders in connection with the refinancing and the provision of capex and build-up of credit facilities for GROUPE IMPLID.
  • Advised Oversea Chinese Banking Corporation Limited and their legal advisors in Singapore (Allen & Gledhill LLP) with respect to the French law aspects of the corporate financing of a maritime freight/logistics group.

De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés

Other key lawyers:

May Jarjour; Sylvie Perrin; Jonathan Souffir


Key clients

Midas Wealth management


Acofi


Aqua Asset management


Ardian


Arkéa Banque Entreprises et Institutionnels


Auchan Holding


Banque Hapoalim


Banque Internationale à Luxembourg


Banque Palatine


Banques Populaires


BayWa r.e.


Belfius Bank


BNP Paribas


Bowe Systec


Bbifrance


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations


Caisses d’Epargne


Cap Vert Energie


Work highlights


  • Advised Caisse d’Epargne et de Prévoyance Auvergne Limousin on the financing of Eurazeo’s investment in 2BSI in the form of a leveraged buy out acquisition.
  • Advised Arval on its capacity as borrower, in the context of the financing of the acquisition of Terberg Business Lease in The Netherlands and Belgium.
  • Advised Actual Leader Group on its capacity as borrower in the context of the financing of a share redemption transaction and the acquisition of Ergalis group.

Dechert LLP

Dechert LLP

Practice head(s):

Privat Vigand


Testimonials

‘Very good knowledge of the real estate market but also of the LBO market which allows quality advice in the context of complex structuring.’

‘Privat Vigand: expertise, availability, ability to listen and good structuring skills.’

‘Excellent team with established track record. Responsive, pragmatic, great clarity.’

Key clients

BNP Paribas


Crédit Agricole CIB


ING Bank


Natixis


Work highlights


  • Advised a consortium of banks on the restructuring of the existing financing in the context of the acquisition of Sequana Tower, Accor’s headquarters, by British fund Valesco.
  • Advised Crédit Agricole CIB on the financing of a portfolio of student residences.

HFW

Practice head(s):

Diane de Moüy; Jean-Marc Zampa


Testimonials

‘The team demonstrates great availability, adaptability and technical expertise in arranging maritime financing.’

‘Jean-Marc Zampa demonstrates great mastery of the subjects and is able to draw on his diplomatic skills to find solutions that suited the parties.’

‘Jean-Marc Zampa stands out for his flexibility, professionalism and availability in order to best meet clients’ expectations.’

Key clients

Airbus Bank


APAX Partners


BRED Banque Populaire


BNP Paribas


Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi France


Bpifrance Financement


Caisse d’Epargne


Crystal Group


Dstny


Graitec


Jeantet

Practice head(s):

Jean-François Adelle; Alexae Fournier-de-Faÿ


Testimonials

 ‘Jean-Francois Adelle has a strong experience in the field of banking and finance and a strong knowledge of the interconnection between different jurisdiction and cross-border activities, transactions and restructuring. Mr. Adelle goes very deep into the subject and only provides convincing legal advice. He is very reactive. ’

‘Jean-François Adelle has not only demonstrated exceptional legal acumen but has also showcased remarkable leadership skills. Leading a team of highly skilled professionals, Jean-François Adelle has exhibited a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome.’

‘Very strong and professional team. Short reaction time and thorough, solid legal skills.’

‘Jean-François Adelle is very experienced and dedicated. A strong negotiator, very committed and solution-oriented. ’

‘The team is experienced, with knowledge of the ENR market, well trained, pragmatic and able to carry out operations successfully.’

‘Alexae Fournier de Faÿe demonstrates both expertise and pragmatism, as well as interpersonal and negotiation skills.’

‘Jeantet is responsive and adapts to the needs of its customers.’

Key clients

Thoma Bravo


Apollo Global Management


Agrofert Group


Réseau des Caisses d’Epargne


Tikehau Investment Management


ORSANA – ECO DELTA


Figeac Aero


BRED Banque Populaire


Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel Brie Picardie


Caisse d’Epargne et de Prévoyance Ile-de-France


SMALT CAPITAL


Eléments SAS


Agricultural Bank of China (Luxembourg) SA


Agricultural Bank of China, Frankfurt Branch


Agricultural Bank of China, London Branch


Bank of China, Frankfurt Branch


Bank of Communications, Frankfurt Branch


Bank of Communications (Luxembourg) SA Paris Branch


China Construction Bank


China Eximbank, Paris Branch


Deutsche Apotheker & Ärztebank


Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Frankfurt Branch


Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Paris Branch


Norddeutsche Landesbank


NRW.Bank


Landesbank Baden-Württemberg


AUXIFIP (CRÉDIT AGRICOLE)


CAISSE RÉGIONALE DE CRÉDIT AGRICOLE MUTUEL SUD RHÔNE-ALPES


CAISSE RÉGIONALE DE CRÉDIT AGRICOLE MUTUEL SUD DU LANGEDOC


METROPOLITAN TOWER LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY


METROPOLITAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY


FARMERS INSURANCE EXCHANGE


CUMIS INSURANCE SOCIETY


PALMDALE HOLDINGS 2022, LLC


METLIFE PRIVATE PLACEMENTS COLLECTIVE TRUST


UNITED OF OMAHA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY


THE GUARDIAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY OF AMERICA


BERKSHIRE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY OF AMERICA


CONNECTICUT GENERAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY


TELECOM INVEST


INTESA SANPAOLO S.P.A


MERLATA MALL (NIH GROUP)


BARINGS LLC


TOFANE GLOBAL


COFACE FINANZ


CIRCA


BAKINTER


Work highlights


  • Assisted Apollo Global Management on the issuance of perpetual super-subordinated notes, fully subscribed by funds managed by Apollo Global Management and issued by a dedicated subsidiary of Air France -KLM.

King & Spalding LLP

King & Spalding LLP

Practice head(s):

Fernand Arsanios


Testimonials

‘Flexibility and availability, ability to find a solution in complicated negotiation situations and timing constraints .’

‘Very agile while having the network and professionalism of a large American firm. The lawyers are very accessible at any time. Great diversity in the teams .’

‘Fernand Arsanios: very commercial and doesn’t make points just to make them. Gets along very well with the advice of opposing parties in general thanks to his charisma and serenity even during the most tense negotiations.’

Key clients

Batibig


Communication and Renewable Energy Infrastructure CREI


Etix Everywhere Holding France SAS


Fiera Comox Private Credit Opportunities Open-End Fund L.P


Heka Invest


LBO France


Spring Holding SAS


Voltalia


White Peaks Capital


Work highlights


  • Advised Spring Holding SAS as borrower on the €925 million syndicated loan financing granted by BNP Paribas, Banque Populaire Rives de Paris, Crédit Industriel et Commercial, Crédit Lyonnais and Société Générale in order to finance the client’s take-private acquisition of Manutan.
  • Advised Heka Invest on a €800 million unitranche financing transaction.
  • Advising Voltalia on a syndicated ESG financing of €200 million granted by BNP Paribas, Natixis and Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank.

Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP

Practice head(s):

Sophie Perus; Gilles Saint Marc; Hubert de Vauplane


Testimonials

‘Very dynamic and responsive team. Strong expertise in the banking and finance sector.’

‘Sophie Perus: very available, very attentive, a strong ability to understand issues.’

‘Sophie Perus: highly involved, excellent technical knowledge and strategic vision, and good knowledge of the stakeholders involved.’

Key clients

Eurazeo Investment Manager – EIM


Zencap Asset Management


Bpifrance Investissement


Pathé


Viseo


Ingepar


Coinstar


Soufflet


Thales


Amundi Asset Management


Idia Capital Investment


BNP Paribas


Crédit Agricole (CACIB)


Perwyn


Eiffel Investment Management


Holding Le Duff


Midcap partners


ICD


EXIMIUM


Schelscher Prince Gestion


ARTEMID


AUREL BGC


ITM Entreprises (Groupe les Mousquetaires)


La Banque Postale Asset Management


TP ICAP


Work highlights


  • Advising Zencap Asset Management and Eurazeo Investment Manager – EIM in relation to the renegotiation of their existing financings to Federation Studios.
  • Advising Amundi Asset Management and IDIA Capital Investment in connection with the structuring of a financing granted to Groupe Cosmobilis in the context of the acquisition of Bee2link.
  • Advising a Fintech on structuring a bank financing for its business operations.

Lacourte Raquin Tatar

Lacourte Raquin Tatar

Practice head(s):

Cédric Bonnet; Chloé Thiéblemont; Damien Luqué


Testimonials

‘Chloé Thiéblemont has in-depth market, legal and economic knowledge linked to the real estate sector. She is available and has excellent negotiating skills.’

LPA-CGR avocats

Practice head(s):

Hassan Javanshir


Other key lawyers:

Thomas Ehrecke; Pauline Ducousso


Testimonials

‘Always helpful and reactive in case of help needed. Very knowledgeable about the market practice approach as to different legal topics.’

‘Very dynamic team. Committed and proactive; outstanding transaction practice. They always deliver high-quality legal services, take care of any question or problem, and are very client-oriented and responsive. They are going the extra mile.’

‘Hassan Javanshir is a very experienced and extremely competent lawyer. Besides his excellent legal advice, considering all aspects of the deal, he has strong negotiation skills and always finds a solution that works for both sides. Absolutely reliable, also when it comes to deadlines. Knows the market very well. Thomas Ehrecke is also extremely competent and reliable and always an excellent choice. With Thomas, one knows that everything is taken care of in a very professional way. He produces a good atmosphere in negotiations, protecting his client at any time. Highly recommended. Stand-out associate: Pauline Ducousso. Extremely professional, committed and responsive. ’

‘Complementary skills, a team that has known each other for many years and works perfectly well together ’

‘Hassan Javanshir: a senior partner who knows his business perfectly and is very close to his clients. Thomas Erecke: exceptional Franco-German partner who develops his business with a lot of professionalism and passion; very hardworking, he seeks innovative solutions.’

‘From top down they have an overview about what happens in the financing transactions and the status quo. The full team is aware and all team members work hand in hand.’

‘Always hands on the deal, daily exchanges about the status and what are next steps. A commercial view and orientated to find solutions’.

‘Very good understanding of the client’s activity and issues. Reasonable cost.’

Key clients

Berlin Hyp


Deutsche Pfandbriefbank Ag (Pbb)


DZHYp


Corsica Sole


Laboratoires Delbert


Societe Generale


Moncey Avocats

Practice head(s):

David Malamed


Testimonials

‘Very committed team concerned with the successful completion of a transaction. A very high level of technique.’

 

Key clients

Safran


Groupe Lucien Barrière


Neo2


Tikehau Capital


Seven2


Capza


EMZ Partners


Andera Partners


Quilvest Capital Partners


Turenne Group


IK Partners


Trajan Capital


MBO+


Cerea Partners


Sparring Capital


Activa Capital


Trocadero Capital Partners


B & Capital


Siparex


21 Invest France


M80 Partners


Raise


One point$


Perwyn


Novaxia


Negma Group


Trajan Capital


Work highlights


  • Assisted Groupe Lucien Barrière in connection with the exit of FIMALAC through the acquisitions of FIMALAC’s holdings in Groupe Lucien Barrière (GLB), and SFCMC.
  • Assisted the engineering consulting firm, Neo2 and its majority shareholders in a second LBO round.
  • Assisted Safran in the sale of the catering and cargo activities of Safran Cabin to Hivest Capital Partners.

Nabarro & Hinge

Practice head(s):

Jennifer Hinge; David Lussigny


Key clients

Andera Partners


Bpifrance


Cerea Capital No


Clarins No


Compagnie Daher


Fareva


Manitou BF


My Money Bank


NewAlpha Verto


Permira


The Governor and Company of the Bank of Ireland


Simmons & Simmons

Practice head(s):

Céline Larmet; Colin Millar; France Vassaux


Other key lawyers:

Mary Serhal


Testimonials

‘Professional, involved, responsive, enthusiastic, pleasant.’

‘The team is super responsive, very well connected and a pleasure to work with. ’

‘Céline Larmet is extremely knowledgeable, well connected and a pleasure to work with. She is always extremely committed, responsive and an all-round fantastic adviser.’

Key clients

BRED Banque Populaire


Caisse d’Epargne des Hauts de France


Valor Real Estate Partners


Arkea Banque


M7


Global Net Lease


Stepling


Savills IM


Goldman Sachs


Deutsche Bank


Caisse d’Epargne Bretagne Pays de Loire


Caisse d’Epargne Normandie


Perial


Union Bancaire Privée


LCL


JPMorgan


Brookfield


Work highlights


  • Advised Valor Real Estate, on the acquisition, structuring and financing of a €105m portfolio logistics platforms near Paris.
  • Advising Brookfield on the landmark acquisition and financing of a large portfolio of data centers in Europe.
  • Advising Goldman Sachs on the implementation of a real estate financing provided to Edyn for the acquisition and redevelopment of a boutique hotel in Paris.

UGGC Avocats

UGGC Avocats

Practice head(s):

Olivier Moriceau; Edouard Héliot


Testimonials

‘Good technique and friendly team.’

‘Immediate availability; tailor-made work with a strong desire to understand the specificities of the client. ’

‘Olivier Moriceau is a lawyer of immense professional and personal qualities. His strong expertise offers peace of mind to the client in stressful moments.’

Key clients

Avril Group


Bpifrance Investissement


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations (CDC)


Agrial Group


Logivolt Territoires


Stanwell Consulting


Dalkia (subsidiary of EDF Group)


AnaCap


Work highlights


  • Advising Avril Group on its first schuldschein debt issue for €90 million.
  • Advising Logivolt Territoires on the adaptation of its electric vehicle charging infrastructure financing offer to social landlords.
  • Advising Stanwell Consulting on a bank financing of its MBO arranged by LCL Crédit Lyonnais and CIC Crédit Industriel et Commercial, for 16 million euros.

VOLT Associés

Practice head(s):

Alexandre Tron


Testimonials

‘Responsive and professional team, knows its customers  and adapts its offers to the subjects to be dealt with.’

Key clients

BNP Paribas


Crédit Lyonnais


Bred Banque Populaire


Banque CIC Est


CIC Private Debt


Banque Palatine


Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Banking


Crédit Industriel et Commercial


Caisse d’Epargne et de Prévoyance Ile de France


Société Générale


Banque Populaire Grand Ouest


Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Alpes Provence


Eurazeo Investment Manager


Andera Partners


IK Partners


Vespa Capital


HR Path


Schelcher Prince Gestion


Work highlights


  • Advised the unitranche lenders (Eurazeo Investment Managers, Five Arrows and CIC Private Debt) on the financing of the acquisition by funds managed by Sagard and other investors of ADIT group.
  • Advised the senior lenders on the financing of the LBO completed by funds managed by L-GAM and Bpifrance on Biose Industrie group.
  • Advised the senior lenders on the financing of the LBO completed by funds managed by Andera Partners and Five Arrows Principal Investments on Financière Canella group.

Winston & Strawn LLP

Practice head(s):

Mounir Letayf


Other key lawyers:

Ariane Berthoud; Adeline Roboam


Testimonials

‘Extremely available and dedicated team. ’

‘High availability, reliability, situation intelligence’

‘Ariane Berthoud: rigor, availability and knowledge of financing issues.’

Key clients

Ardian Private Equity


Eurazeo


Muzinich & Co.


Andera Partners


Siparex Ingenierie et Finance


123 Investment Managers


H.I.G Capital


Pytheas Capital Advisors


Schelcher Prince Gestion


Compagnie de Phalsbourg


HPC Capital


Work highlights


  • Advised the Group Muzinich & Co in relation to a unitranche financing for the acquisition by HLD EUROPE SCA of Group INFODIS SAS.
  • Advised the Group Siparex in relation to a unitranche financing for the acquisition of Group HB Aesthetic, alongside Amethis Europe Expansion.
  • Advised ISAI Expension on the acquisition of a minority stake in Driiveme.