Firms To Watch: Competition

Advising a diverse clientele that spans the waste management, manufacturing and FMCG industries, CLM Bitai & Partners’s competition team advises on compliance, consumer protection and merger clearance issues. Zsófia Bitai leads the group.

Competition in Hungary

Andrékó Ferenczi Kinstellar

Cartel investigations are a particularly prolific area for the competition team at Andrékó Ferenczi Kinstellar. The practice is also active in the merger control space, and is regularly involved in merger control filings and in obtaining clearance before the HCA and the European Commission. Further strength range from compliance to state aid, and the group's diverse clientele includes financial institutions and companies active in the energy sector. Practice head Péter Vörös regularly represents clients in high-profile cartel cases before both Hungarian and European courts. With substantial litigation experience, Orsolya Staniszewski also represents clients in antitrust and consumer protection cases. Noémi Varga handles abuse of dominant position cases, while Eszter Takácsi-Nagy is noted for her experience in advising clients from the life sciences sector.

Practice head(s):

Péter Vörös


Other key lawyers:

Orsolya Staniszewski; Noémi Varga; Eszter Takácsi-Nagy


Testimonials

‘Exceptional availability and great communication.’

‘They are always available to help and ready to take the lead with a distinguished positive attitude towards any challenges.’

‘The team is very experienced.’

‘Péter Vörös provides feedback on a quite broad spectrum.’

Key clients

Nitrogénművek Zrt.


OTP Bank Nyrt.


Work highlights


  • Representing Nitrogénművek in a cartel case, in which the Hungarian Competition Authority imposed a fine of €36.8m.
  • Advised OTP Bank on the successful acquisition of Ipoteka Bank.

CMS

Szabolcs Szendrő leads the specialised antitrust, competition and trade team at CMS. The practice handles the gamut of competition law issues, from merger control proceedings, to cartel investigations, to abuse of dominance cases. Private damages actions are another key focus area, and the team recently represented MOL in a significant case in this space. Dóra Petrányi advises on state aid issues and has extensive telecoms expertise, as well as advising technology clients on consumer protection issues. Aranka Nagy strengthens the team’s international reach with knowledge of EU competition law, and regularly acts on cross-border mergers, cartel and abuse of dominance matters.

Practice head(s):

Szabolcs Szendrő


Other key lawyers:

Dóra Petrányi; Aranka Nagy; Zsófia Tari


Testimonials

‘CMS’ strength in competition law in Hungary lies both in its number of knowledgeable competition lawyers, and the quality of arguments they are able to present.’

‘Szabolcs Szendrő is one of the best in Hungary. He has almost 10 years’ experience working for a Competition Authority and has an economics degree, so can offer lot of perspectives on cases.’

‘The team is able to help in managing highly complex antitrust issues.’

Key clients

Medtronic


Magyar RTL Television, subsidiary of Bertelsmann Group


Airbnb


Viagogo


Magyar Telekom, subsidiary of Deutsche Telekom


ABB (Hungarian subsidiary)


MOL, the largest oil&gas company in CEE


AmRest (KFC, Pizza Hut, Starbucks, Burger King)


OTP Bank, the largest commercial bank in CEE


Commerzbank AG


Work highlights


  • Represented Magyar RTL Television in a merger case and related claims, from the initial stage through various court appeals, to the final instance before the Constitutional Court of Hungary.
  • Represented MOL in an antitrust damages action.
  • Representing OTP Bank in a HCA procedure relating to a multilateral interchange fee.

Dentons

Dentons‘highly skilled, professional and committed’ competition team offers a full spectrum of services, from relevant transactional advice to representation in investigatons. The practice also supports clients with the design and implementation of compliance programs and competition law audits. István Réczicza and Tünde Gönczöl jointly lead the team; the former Réczicza is typically instructed by clients from regulated industries, with a focus on foreign investment, state aid and antitrust matters, while the latter has a wealth of experience representing clients before the HCA. Áron Károlyi-Szabó regularly advises on regulatory matters and contributes to the practice’s international offering, advising on issues under both EU and domestic law.

Practice head(s):

István Réczicza; Tünde Gönczöl


Other key lawyers:

Áron Károlyi-Szabó


Testimonials

‘Dentons Hungary is extremely competent in the area of competition law. We receive timely answers to questions, deadlines are met under all circumstances. Dentons proactively provides us with information (changes in legislation, etc.) and provides competition law training for our employees. Very good availability of lawyers, which is very much appreciated.’

‘Áron Károlyi-Szabó is our competent contact in competition law questions. We have very good experiences with him as he is extremely competent in the topic, very precise and always available.’

‘They are business oriented and very responsive towards our needs.’

‘I worked in particular with Tünde Gönczöl and she has an outstanding understanding of the business needs and a very good legal background.’

‘Very deep expertise and experience in the field of competition law. They understand the business-related issues as well and can provide tailor-made solutions for the client. They are also very flexible in finding suitable fee structures. Their availability is also excellent, very easy to contact them and organise meetings. ’

‘Client-focused and business-oriented approach.’

‘They provide excellent legal services. The team is highly skilled, professional and committed. They have shown remarkable attention to detail and a deep understanding of the intricacies of our cases.’

‘I was very impressed with Tünde Gönczöl’s professionalism and commitment. She was always available and responsive, addressing my concerns immediately and keeping me informed at every stage. Her attention to detail and thorough preparation contributed significantly to the positive resolution of our legal matters.’

Key clients

Vodafone


BASF


Nestlé


Essity


Foxconn Interconnect Technology Limited (Hon Hai Technology Group)


Samsung


Porsche Hungaria


Extreme Digital-eMAG Kft.


Dante International SA


Vascular Venture


Optima Group/ Globe Trade Centre SA


Deutsche Lotto- und Sportswetten Limited


Wing Zrt.


Work highlights


  • Represented Vodafone in litigation against the GVH concerning the GVH’s decision to impose a significant fine on the client for infringing the provisions of the Act on the Prohibition of Unfair Commercial Practices against Consumers.
  • Assisting with the Hungarian merger filing aspects of Foxconn Interconnect Technology’s acquisition of Prettl SWH.
  • Assisting Vascular Venture with the implementation of a comprehensive compliance program, including compliance training covering both competition law and anti-corruption, and an update to the company’s dawn raid policy.

DLA Piper Posztl, Nemescsói, Györfi-Tóth and Partners Law Firm

With a diverse clientele of buyers, sellers, target companies and financial advisors, DLA Piper Posztl, Nemescsói, Györfi-Tóth and Partners Law Firm’s competition team focuses on compliance issues and mergers, as well as regularly handling cartel investigations. With extensive knowledge of Hungarian and EU antitrust law, practice co-heads Gábor Fejes and Zoltán Marosi bolster the team’s international capabilities. Fejes has particular expertise in merger control cases and has experience before both the HCA and the European Commission. Marosi’s practice focuses on administrative litigation and consumer protection law, also an area in which Balázs Csépai is particularly active. Levente Molnár also boasts expertise in EU competition law, and has extensive litigation experience before the CJEU.

Practice head(s):

Gábor Fejes; Zoltán Marosi


Other key lawyers:

Balázs Csépa; Levente Molnár


Testimonials

‘Exceptional qualities at every level of the law firm.’

‘Availability is exceptional.’

‘One of the top teams in competition practice.’

‘Zoltán Marosi is a client focused and highly professional adviser.’

‘The practice can draw on the international network and experience of the firm.’

‘Gábor Fejes and Zoltán Marosi are among the leading competition lawyers in Hungary. Gábor, with his experience of more than 25 years, is hard to beat when it comes to complex advice.’

Key clients

KITE (Csányi group)


Yettel


Ferrero


Borsodi Sörgyár (Molson Coors)


Wizz Air


Raiffeisen/Uniqa


Magyar Bankholding (MBH)


eMAG (Dante International)


Artisjus


Chamber of Hungarian Auditors


Work highlights


  • Represented KITE in a cartel case in front of courts, in which KITE acted as the successful immunity applicant.
  • Representing Yettel before the Hungarian Competition Authority both in relation to a major consumer protection case and a case concerning network sharing with another telecoms provider.
  • Representing Samsung in an investigation by the Hungarian Competition Authority concerning novel advertising issues on SmartTVs.

Hegymegi-Barakonyi and Fehérváry Baker&McKenzie Attorneys-at-Law

Under the joint leadership of Zoltán Hegymegi-Barakonyi and Márton Horányi, the competition team at Hegymegi-Barakonyi and Fehérváry Baker&McKenzie Attorneys-at-Law remains a destination of choice for clients in need of representation before the HCA. Leveraging the strength of the firm's in-house forensics offering, the group represents clients in the gamut of competition matters, from cartel investigations to antitrust cases. The team also boasts strong international capabilities, regularly advising on multijurisdictional merger filings. Péter Mezei has over 14 years’ experience appearing before both Hungarian and European courts. András Horváth represents clients from the retail, pharmaceutical and tech sectors in cartel, abuse of dominance and market power cases, as well as advising automotive, energy and banking clients on compliance matters.

Practice head(s):

Zoltán Hegymegi-Barakonyi; Márton Horányi


Other key lawyers:

András Horváth


Testimonials

‘Márton Horányi stands out with his “down to earth” mindset, where he can propose legal solutions that correspond to real-life situations. He speaks in an easy-to-understand language and does not hiding behind legal terminologies.’

‘Márton Horányi is our key contact partner, a true professional. As a head of legal, I often do not need a detailed analysis, but rather a partner, with whom I can discuss the relevant issues. Márton is such a partner, ready for brainstorming or deep research. Zoltán Hegymegi-Barakonyi is a great strategist, who has valuable experience that he is ready to share.’

‘Highly experienced in competition matters. They can provide advice on complex matters. Very good availability, they are responsive.’

Key clients

MOL Plc.


Booking.com


K&H Bank (member of the KBC Group, one of the largest commercial banks in Hungary)


FGSZ (the operatior of the Hungarian gas grid)


EU-Solar Plc.


Adecco


Tesco


KIA


Suzuki


Grand Automotive


Ford


Work highlights


  • Advised MOL on the acquisition of OMV Slovenia and secured Phase II clearance of the transaction from the European Commission.
  • Represented Booking.com before the HCA and the Hungarian courts in an investigation regarding alleged unfair commercial practices where the HCA imposed a fine exceeding €7m.
  • Represented the Hungarian subsidiary of Adecco in a court review of the decision of the HCA to impose a cartel fine of €2.9m on the Hungarian HR Association for no-poaching and other restrictions.

Lakatos, Köves and Partners

In line with the government’s introduction of new legislation in 2023, the competition team at Lakatos, Köves and Partners noted an increase in instructions relating to the review of client whistleblowing policies. The group’s diverse clientele includes multinational corporations and foreign investors, and spans the real estate, telecoms, construction and life sciences sectors. Practice co-head Eszter Ritter has over 15 years’ experience, spanning antitrust, merger control and unfair competition cases. Ritter’s counterpart Iván Sólyom has brings his cross-practice expertise as head of the firm’s corporate and M&A team to the group. Adrienn Mándoki advises on consumer protection matters. Ádám Máttyus rounds out the roster of key contacts.

Practice head(s):

Eszter Ritter; Iván Sólyom


Other key lawyers:

Adrienn Mándoki; Ádám Máttyus


Testimonials

‘Unique expertise in the national specifics of competition law.’

‘Eszter Ritter and her colleagues consistently impress with their quick and knowledgeable responses. They’re a reliable partnership who bring a wealth of expertise to the table. Collaborating with them is always a smooth and productive experience.’

‘Excellent knowledge of the law, client oriented and proactive attitude to match client needs in a time-constrained scenario.’

‘The firm has a strong team with thorough knowledge of the local law and the practice of the national competition agency. They were always available when needed and delivered their work on time, communicating in advance on issues. Overall, I also always had a good experience working with this firm.’

‘Eszter Ritter is hands on, always available and has a good knowledge of the case.’

‘Iván Sólyom is able to explain complex legal processes and concepts in a helpful and pragmatic way.’

Key clients

Meta Platforms Ireland


Vodafone


GE Healthcare


Mastercard Europe SA


Mattoni Group (formerly Karlovarské mineralní vodi a.s.)


COLAS S.A.


Waterland Group


Hitachi Rail


General Plastic, a. s.


Zenitech


Diófa Alapkezelő Zrt.


Work highlights


  • Represented Meta in an unfair commercial practices investigation by the HCA, in which the HCA filed a constitutional complaint before the Hungarian Constitutional Court to challenge the rejection of the HCA’s remedy request against the Kúria’s 2021 ruling in Meta’s favour.
  • Advising Vodafone on day-to-day competition law matters and on competition law matters in relation to its spin-off company Vantage Towers.
  • Representing GE Healthcare in various cartel investigations involving the client’s business unit, concerning alleged collusions regarding public procurements.

Allen & Overy

Investigations and litigation form the basis of Allen & Overy’s comprehensive competition and antitrust practice, and the team has extensive experience appearing before the Hungarian Supreme Court. The group has particular expertise in the banking and telecoms sectors, and a strong track record in antitrust private damages litigation, including cartel damages cases. With over 17 years’ experience in EU and Hungarian competition law, Attila Kőmíves leads the team, and is active in high-profile cartel investigations.

Practice head(s):

Attila Kőmíves


Other key lawyers:

Barnabás Sándor Kiss


Testimonials

‘The team is highly capable of solving complex competition law issues.’

‘Attila Kőmíves is a sharp and pragmatic lawyer, with an excellent ability to create order from chaos.’

‘This team really takes the time to get to know your business, understand how your product works and understand the challenges your company faces.’

Key clients

Scania CV AB


ING Bank N.V. Hungary Branch / ING Bank NV


Randstad Hungary Kft


ingatlan.com Zrt.


Magyar Telekom Nyrt


Wanhua / Borsodchem


Work highlights


  • Represented ING Bank before the HCA in a repeated investigation regarding multilateral interchange fees.
  • Represented Scania as intervener and defendant in a series of private enforcement litigations in Hungarian courts related to the European Commission’s 2016 trucks cartel decision.
  • Represented Randstad in the court review of a landmark cartel decision by the HCA.

Bassola Law Firm

The ‘highly specialised‘ competition team at Bassola Law Firm regularly represents clients in proceedings before the HCA, as well as appearing in cases before the Constitutional Court of Hungary and the European Court of Human Rights. The group’s practice spans a range of competition law matters, from cartel investigations, to merger clearances, to compliance matters. Founding partner Bálint Bassola, who brings experience from his time at the FCA to the group, heads up the practice. Kristóf Csillik is another active member of the team, along with Imre Nagy, who bring cross-practice expertise in commercial, corporate and labour matters to the team.

Practice head(s):

Bálint Bassola


Other key lawyers:

Kristóf Csillik; Imre Nagy


Testimonials

‘Bálint Bassola stands out as a hard-working, thorough and capable partner.’

‘They are as good as, or better than, any large corporate firm. Highly specialised with senior experience.’

Key clients

European truck cartel (Révész Trans LLC / Lerton Trans LLC / Active Plus LLC / Euro-Silo LLC / Ferrocar LLC / Galambos Trans LLC)


Imperial Tobacco


Zeneszöveg.hu


ALZA Hungary


ALZA International


Doktor24 / Union Insurance Ltd.


Rubin Group


Filotimo


USA Medical


Work highlights


  • Representing Révész Trans International/Lerton Trans International in follow-on cartel damages litigation on the basis of the European Commission’s decision which imposed a fine of over €3.5bn on major truck cartel producers.
  • Advising Navia on the merger control implications of a global M&A transaction.
  • Representing the Rubin Group in a cartel investigation before the HCA.

CERHA HEMPEL Dezso & Partners

The one-stop-shop competition team at CERHA HEMPEL Dezso & Partners handles antitrust cases and merger control proceedings, state aid issues and private enforcement litigation, and has recently increased its focus on consumer protection matters. Márton Kocsis, who was promoted to partner in June 2022, has experience at the HCA. and leads the substantial team alongside Tamás Polauf, who regularly acts in high-profile cartel and abuse of dominance cases. Boglárka Priskin also brings previous experience working at the HCA to the team, and is consequently able to advise on consumer protection issues and unfair trade practices. Máté Baumgartner bolsters the group’s international capabilities, and Anna Pintér also plays an active role in the team.

Practice head(s):

Tamás Polauf; Márton Kocsis


Other key lawyers:

Márton Osztheimer; Boglárka Priskin; Anna Pintér; Máté Baumgartner


Testimonials

‘I am very happy to have Márton Kocsis to turn to when needed. His professional experience is very useful to us. He is also a calm person who really speaks the language of business professionals and can explain complex and difficult topics to us in an easy and fun way, and we like him a lot for this. We also really appreciate that he is always available to us, no matter how urgent the case at hand may be.’

‘Márton Osztheimer is a veteran professional, and it is obvious he saw business from up close for many many years. Márton really understands the way marketing and business people think, and is very useful in identifying alternative solutions instead of the “it is not allowed” type of answers that lawyers usually give.’

‘The competition team at CERHA HEMPEL Dezső contains seasoned competition law veterans, and you can feel and sense once you start to work with them that they are really passionate about competition law. I also particularly liked their business-minded approach towards any legal issues we have faced.’

‘Both Tamás Polauf and Márton Kocsis are experienced and practical attorneys whose knowledge clearly shows in their legal advice.’

‘CH proved that they could understand not only our legal position, but the internal operations and ways of working of the company as well. They do not just provide a legal opinion and support in this procedure, but also they are living with us through this case, informing me as legal director on all important steps and we can always have a brainstorming session on the best possible next step.’

‘The firm is very well versed in competition law and has a good understanding of the domestic context. The most important thing is that they explain the realistic possibilities before cooperation, which is fair.’

‘We worked mainly with Márton Kocsis, Anna Pintér and Boglárka Priskin. All of them were well prepared and understood our case accurately and quickly.’

‘Their attitude to work and their expertise is excellent, and they do their work humbly, concentrating on the case.’

Key clients

OTP Bank Plc.


PHOENIX Group (BENU Magyarország Ltd., PHOENIX Pharma Ltd.)


MOL Plc.


Duna Group (Duna Aszfalt Ltd., Vakond Ltd., Vakond Via Ltd., Duna Group International Ltd., Magyar Vakond Ltd., NHB Ltd.)


Alza Group (Alza.cz a.s. and Alza.hu Ltd.)


Muziker a.s


Dömper Ltd.


HERVIS Magyarország Ltd.


METRANS Danubia Ltd.


Bauhaus Szakáruházak Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Advising the Phoenix Group on various day-to-day competition law issues and representing the client in an overall sectoral competition supervision proceeding before the HCA.
  • Representing MOL Group in a waste management concession in front of the European Commission and the HCA.
  • Providing day-to-day legal advice to Alza on its operations in Hungary, as well as representing the client in numerous complaint procedures before the HCA and the Government Office.

Partos & Noblet in co-operation with Hogan Lovells International LLP

Partos & Noblet in co-operation with Hogan Lovells International LLP has an active antitrust practice, which regularly advises on compliance programs as well as providing dawn raid training. The team also offers merger control advice, from structuring to filing, as well as representing clients in cartel cases. Ákos Kovách , who was promoted to partner in May 2023, heads up the practice. András Multas brings experience in unfair commercial practices to the team, and represents clients in court of all levels.

Practice head(s):

Ákos Kovách


Other key lawyers:

Istvan Szatmary; András Multas


Testimonials

‘A small team consisting of talented persons who quickly understand the needs of their clients.’

‘Ákos Kovách is a knowledgeable practitioner; he has an in-depth understanding of complex antitrust issues. At the same time, he is pragmatic, and he can serve his clients with simple and elegant solutions.’

‘Ákos Kovách is an experienced competition lawyer with excellent verbal and written skills.’

‘Ákos Kovách has professionalism.’

‘An excellent well-rounded team, with both technical and sector expertise, as well as commercial pragmatism.’

‘Ákos Kovách is a well-known professional and a really good competition lawyer.’

‘Ákos Kovách has a solid knowledge of competition law and is a really good competition lawyer.’

Key clients

MEDIREX


Magyar Cetelem Bank


BNP Paribas Personal Finance


NEPI Rockcastle


AMC Networks


GymBeam


Yves Rocher


Tom Market


Work highlights


  • Representing MEDIREX in ongoing court procedures before the Hungarian Supreme Court which were initiated based on a judicial review request submitted against the decision adopted by the HCA for alleged cartel practices in public procurement procedures.
  • Represented Magyar Cetelem Bank in merger control proceedings initiated before the HCA for the acquisition of the commercial and personal loan and credit card portfolio from Oney Hungary.
  • Advising BNP Paribas Personal Finance on the merger control implications of a major transaction on the Hungarian banking market.

Schoenherr Hetényi Ügyvédi Iroda

Schoenherr Hetényi Ügyvédi Iroda’s expertise in competition law ranges from cartel investigations to compliance issues. The competition team continues to expand its diverse clientele, taking on new clients across the TMT, sports and logistics sectors. A recent increase in consumer protection cases has seen the team handle a growing number of related mandates before the HCA, and the group continues to be recognised for its established follow-on damages litigation expertise. ‘Excellent specialist’ and antitrust damages litigation expert Anna Turi leads the team, representing clients in merger control proceedings and unfair commercial practice cases. Márk Kovács is praised for his ‘brilliant legal mind and excellent judgment’.

Practice head(s):

Anna Turi


Other key lawyers:

Márk Kovács; Christoph Haid


Testimonials

‘The team is highly experienced, competent and effective in providing top-notch legal services across the whole spectrum of competition law. A well-organised team which has been delivering great results to us tirelessly and reliably for almost a decade. They are great to work with.’

‘Márk Kovács is inarguably blessed with a brilliant legal mind and excellent judgment. Márk remains a modest and hard-working professional you can absolutely rely on. He commands superior analytical, research and drafting skills, allowing him to provide a great result even under heavy pressure and on rather short notice. His competence has long since passed the test of time and we cannot use words of praise that would be too great to thank him.’

‘Anna Turi has accompanied us on the Hungarian legal market for almost a decade now and has always delivered excellent results across the board. Her analytical skills and meticulous eye for detail often make a lot of difference. She manages her legal team effectively, keeping her colleagues motivated and clients satisfied. She fully deserves all the recognition she gets for her legal expertise and skills.’

‘Good English, efficient work and handling of the task.’

‘Great creative thinking in the area of competition law.’

‘They are quick, very flexible, experienced and have an excellent knowledge with a very professional way of handling issues.’

‘Anna Turi is a very passionate and excellent specialist and advises very pragmatically. She is also a very nice person.’

‘Christoph Haid is a very distinguished expert with vast experience.’

Key clients

Magna International Inc.


Mercedes-Benz Group AG (formerly: Daimler AG)


Robert Bosch Group


MANPOWER Munkaerő Szervezési Kft.


Getinge Group


Fressnapf Beteiligungs GmbH


Mondi AG


Pipelife Hungary Kft.


Work highlights


  • Represented Manpower Hungary in antitrust proceedings before the HCA and in a judicial review before the Supreme Court concerning the fine imposed by the HCA.
  • Advised Magna International on the acquisition of the active safety business of Veoneer.
  • Represented Bosch in merger control proceedings related to the acquisition of shares in and joint control over Hungarian thermo-technology company Kazántrade.

Siegler Bird & Bird Ügyvédi Iroda

Covering both contentious and non-contentious matters, with particular knowledge in the field of unfair commercial practices, the competition team at Siegler Bird & Bird Ügyvédi Iroda is instructed by a diverse base of clients across Hungary and the EU. Dániel Arányi, who was promoted to partner in May 2023, leads the team, and handles the gamut of antitrust matters, cartel investigations and compliance issues. László Zlatarov boasts over 20 years’ experience handling multijurisdictional merger control filings and cartel cases. Gábor Kutai focuses on abuse of dominance and consumer protection cases, and also has expertise in state aid matters.

Practice head(s):

Dániel Arányi


Other key lawyers:

László Zlatarov; Gábor Kutai


Testimonials

‘The accessibility of the team is outstanding.’

‘Dániel Arányi and Gábor Kutai are excellent lawyers in all areas of competition law.’

‘The team’s industry and legal knowledge makes them able to give clear and practical advice.’

‘Dániel Arányi is a well-experienced professional.’

‘They have industry experience as well as experience dealing with vertical agreements, dominant position and setting up distribution networks for a strong market position.’

‘Dániel Arányi is an expert in the field of competition law, easy to communicate with, has great follow-up skills and no issues meeting short deadlines.’

Key clients

OTP Bank


MOL


ERSTE Bank


Sió-Eckes


be2 S.à.rl


Work highlights


  • Advised on the joint acquisition of the majority of shares in Alteo by MOL Group, Diófa Group and Indotek Group through a series of direct share acquisitions and a public takeover offer.
  • Advised OTP Bank on the acquisition of the Nova KBM Group.
  • Advised OTP Bank on the acquisition of a 100% stake in the Albanian subsidiary of Alpha Bank.

Szecskay Attorneys at Law

Pan-European mandates make up a significant portion of the competition team’s caseload at Szecskay Attorneys at Law; the practice has a strong track record in cross-border merger control filings and represents clients in both national and international courts, including the CJEU. Practice head Anikó Keller regularly represents clients before the HCA in cartel investigations and other competition infringement cases, alongside János Vajda, who regularly acts in cartel appeals. Sam MacMahon Baldwin brings a 'highly knowledgeable' approach to a breadth of antitrust cases, and Miklós Boronkay regularly takes a lead role in follow-on damages litigation. Bence Molnár leads on much of the group’s merger control work, while Gábor Faludi Junior typically advises on consumer protection matters.

Practice head(s):

Anikó Keller


Other key lawyers:

Sam MacMahon Baldwin; János Vajda; Miklós Boronkay; Bence Molnár; Gábor Faludi Junior


Testimonials

‘Sam MacMahon Baldwin is highly knowledgeable, driven, warm and approachable, with broad international experience.’

‘The firm offers outstanding and unique expertise.’

‘We have closely cooperated with Sam MacMahon Baldwin. He offered his service – pro bono – on a number of issues that fall out of the profile and expertise of the legal aid service we operate. Sam is a passionate, committed attorney with extraordinary knowledge in EU law – in particular competition law.’

‘Unique expertise in competition law and an extraordinary ability to coordinate multinational transactions. Bence Molnár, Sam MacMahon Baldwin and other members of their team consistently set a high standard for responsiveness and reliability. They’re not only swift in their communication but also bring a wealth of expertise to the table. Working alongside them is a privilege, and I highly recommend their legal services.’

‘The contact was wonderfully fast and pleasant, and we were able to clarify all important issues in a short time. They are real experts in the field of antitrust damages in Hungary.’

‘We had contact with Sam MacMahon Baldwin and Miklós Boronkay. Both were very pleasant and professional and real experts in their field.’

‘Sam MacMahon Baldwin has been very competent, with significant knowledge on both the EU and national interpretations of the latest developments. He has also been extremely pleasant to work with and has an extensive knowledge of my company.’

Key clients

Digi Communications N.V.


DAF Trucks NV


DIGI (Hungary) – 4iG group


Euromedic Pharma Zrt.


PostNord Group


ELO Group / Auchan


Dansk Artist Forbund


L’Oréal


Reckitt Benckiser


NNG


Work highlights


  • Representing telecoms operator DIGI before the HCA and courts in connection with cases relating to antitrust, merger control, and unfair commercial practices.
  • Defending DAF Trucks in 26 court proceedings throughout Hungary against claims for follow-on damages as a consequence of the European Commission’s decision in the trucks cartel case.
  • Representing PostNord Group in several antitrust and state aid matters before the European Commission.

Bán, S. Szabó, Rausch & Partners

Bán, S. Szabó, Rausch & Partners focuses on competition and antitrust matters across the energy, public transport, trade and telecoms sectors. The competition team’s full spectrum offering spans merger clearance proceedings and abuse of dominance cases, state aid matters and unfair commercial practices. With over 30 years’ experience in competition law, Chrysta Bán co-leads the team alongside Álmos Papp, a ‘smart and creative‘ expert, who has extensive experience appearing before the Hungarian Competition Office and the CJEU.

Practice head(s):

Álmos Papp; Chrysta Bán


Testimonials

‘We maintain a solid professional relationship with the firm, as they are involved in multiple matters where we advise clients. They are solid professionals in terms of competition law.’

‘Álmos Papp is a veteran competition law expert with solid knowledge regarding the field and the markets.

‘The firm has a very good competition team, which has great expertise in Hungarian competition law matters.’

Key clients

ITK Group


ITE Bus & Truck Kft.


Deloitte Legal Göndöcz and Partners Law Firm

Deloitte Legal Göndöcz and Partners Law Firm’s competition team is made up of specialists in relevant authority proceedings, and also fields in-house forensics experts and technologies; the practice regularly defends clients in antitrust cases before the HCA and domestic courts. Péter Göndöcz leads the team alongside Anna Miks; the latter has over 20 years’ experience in consumer protection issues, and also regularly provides day-to-day competition advice to clients from the FMCG and energy sectors. Denisz Dobos joined the team as a managing associate in March 2023 from Nagy és Trócsányi Ügyvédi Iroda, bringing additional experience in merger filings and cartel damages claims to the group.

Practice head(s):

Péter Göndöcz; Anna Miks


Other key lawyers:

Denisz Dobos


Key clients

Borsodi Sörgyárak Zrt.


FAST ČR, a.s.


Sberbank Magyarország Zrt. “under voluntary liquidation” represented by Pénzügyi Stabilitási és Felszámoló Nonprofit Kft.


VÖRÖSKŐ Kft.


Integral Venture Partners


European Commission


Power Kft.


General Logistics Systems B.V. (GLS Group)


Forgó, Damjanovic & Partners Law Firm

Forgó, Damjanovic & Partners Law Firm has an established track record in the pharmaceuticals sector and the competition team regularly represents clients from that industry before the HCA and the National Institute of Pharmacies. The group’s expertise encompasses both cartel investigations and merger control procedures. Practice head Zoltán Forgó also advises on unfair trade practices within the pharmaceuticals sector and has experience appearing before the Consumer Protection Authority. Zsófia Füzi is also an active team member.

Practice head(s):

Zoltán Forgó


Other key lawyers:

Zsófia Füzi; Gábor Damjanovic


Testimonials

‘Extremely professional and experienced with competition law. Straight to the point advice and able to build great strategies in terms of compliance.’

‘Easy going, easy to communicate with, extremely professional, trust comes naturally.’

Key clients

Partner Ltd.


Pentolt Ltd.


Unipetrol Group


Obton A/S


Ratiolab Holding


KPMG Legal Tóásó Law Firm

The ‘diverse and well prepared’ team at KPMG Legal Tóásó Law Firm offers comprehensive competition and antitrust advice, with a focus on due diligence and training. The practice also handles competition-related litigation. Boglárka Németh, who was promoted to senior associate in June 2023 and has particular expertise in antitrust procedure, as well as merger clearance, consumer protection and state aid matters, heads up the group.

Practice head(s):

Boglárka Németh


Testimonials

‘A diverse and well prepared, multi-lingual team.’

‘Professionalism, high level of helpfulness, hands on approach.’

Key clients

Trenkwalder Leasing Kft


Trenkwalder HR Solution Kft


Trenkwalder Recruitment Kft


Daniella Kft/ Weerts Group S.A.


Work highlights


  • Represented Trenkwalder subsidiaries in litigation proceedings arising as a consequence of a major investigation by the HCA into alleged price fixing and other competition law infringements in the staffing market.
  • Advising a German-based multinational cleaning technology specialist on the establishment and continuous development of its competition law compliance policy and operation.
  • Provided HB Reavis with competition advice concerning the structuring of a sale.

Nagy és Trócsányi Ügyvédi Iroda

Nagy és Trócsányi Ügyvédi Iroda‘s competition team regularly represents clients before the HCA and domestic courts, with expertise spanning merger control proceedings, cartel cases and consumer protection matters. Orsolya Kovács leads the team, regularly representing clients before the Constitutional Court of Hungary and the CJEU. Balázs Karsai is an expert in state aid clearance and cartel damages cases. Lúcia Detvay is a key contact for technology clients.

Practice head(s):

Orsolya Kovács


Other key lawyers:

Balázs Karsai; Lúcia Detvay


Testimonials

‘Very detailed analysis of competition-related matters and thorough preparation. Orsolya Kovács and Lúcia Detvay are the key members of the practice dealing with our company’s matters.’

‘The team has excellent flexibility and broad experience.’

‘The work is completed on time with high levels of precision.’

Key clients

Ministry of Justice of Hungary


Honda


Volvo/Renault Group


OTP Bank


LG


Work highlights


  • Representing Volvo/Renault Group in numerous Hungarian court proceedings and out-of-court negotiations that relate to competition law infringement determined by the European Commission.
  • Representing Hungary, as an intervenor, upon assignment by the government, in twin atomic energy cases.

Oppenheim Ugyvedi Iroda

Merger clearance is a key focus for the competition team at Oppenheim Ugyvedi Iroda, and the group regularly represents clients in relevant proceedings before the HCA. The practice’s other areas of expertise include consumer protection investigations, compliance matters and state aid issues. In January 2024, Péter Virág joined from DLA Piper Posztl, Nemescsói, Györfi-Tóth and Partners Law Firm in order to take over leadership of the team. Managing partner István Szatmáry continues to play in active role in the group.

Practice head(s):

István Szatmáry; Péter Virág


Testimonials

‘Friendly and client focused attitude.’

Key clients

Nafta s.a.


Work highlights


  • Advising Nafta on merger clearance for an oil and natural gas exploitation joint venture in Hungary.
  • Acting in a consumer protection investigation where co-operation with the HCA led to a significant reduction of the fine imposed.
  • Acting in a consumer protection investigation where co-operation with the HCA led to the settlement of the case without the imposition of a fine.

Réti, Várszegi and Partners PwC Legal

Cartel investigations are a key focus area for Réti, Várszegi and Partners PwC Legal‘s competition team, which represents clients in cases before the HCA and the CJEU. László Réti's expertise spans antitrust, merger control and consumer protection issues. Réti leads the team alongside Péter Zalai, who focuses his practice on the pharmaceuticals and energy sectors, particularly in terms of providing compliance advice. Zsófia Straubinger advises clients on dawn raids, as part of the team’s emphasis on preventative interventions. As part of the firm’s German desk, Márk Péter Baksa strengthens the team’s cross-border capabilities.

Practice head(s):

László Réti; Péter Zalai


Other key lawyers:

Zsófia Straubinger; Márk Péter Baksa


Testimonials

‘They have a reliable team with impressive professional experience and wide-ranging specialist knowledge.’

‘We worked closely together with Péter Zalai and Márk Péter Baksa, two highly qualified professionals. Both are very committed, well-prepared professionals with high levels of analytical thinking and skills.’

‘Diversified expertise, customer focus, flexibility.’

‘They took into consideration the client’s perception, in addition to professional support. They were absolutely reliable and flexible. My favourite two practitioners are László Réti and Márk Péter Baksa.’

‘The team has deep experience and knowledge of both state aid and competition law, as well as the relevant industrial and market environment. They frequently cooperate with PwC’s other service lines and, thus, they solve complex problems.’

‘Zsófia Straubinger and Péter Zalai provided legal support throughout the completion of the project. Combining her deep experience and knowledge in both competition law and state aid law, Zsófia Straubinger developed an innovative approach.’

‘Very deep understanding of EU and Hungarian competition laws. Great support, great argumentation in difficult cases.’

‘Swift and professional actions, great defence document drafting and submission in critical situation.’

Key clients

Bellis Egészségtár Kft.


Jász-Plasztik Kft.


ROSSMANN Magyarország Kft.


Vulcan Steel Private Company Limited by Shares


Work highlights


  • Advised Bellis Egészségtár on merger clearance issues related to the acquisition of a medical aid wholesaler company.
  • Representing Jász-Plasztik in a fast-track sector inquiry conducted by the HCA.
  • Providing legal support to ROSSMANN Magyarország on competition law matters on a daily basis for almost a decade.

Szabó Kelemen & Partners Andersen Attorneys

Szabó Kelemen & Partners Andersen Attorneys‘ competition team has experience in all areas of both Hungarian and EU competition law, with a focus on merger control matters and compliance programs. László Kelemen heads up the practice, supported by competition specialist Balázs Dominek. Áron Somogyi handles cartel investigations and regularly represents clients before the HCA.

Practice head(s):

László Kelemen


Other key lawyers:

Balázs Dominek; Áron Somogyi; Gergely Gundel-Takács; Eszter Rupnik


Testimonials

‘Szabó Kelemen & Partners have a great team with experts in many special law areas. The overall approach to projects and problems is very good, they are solution oriented.’

‘The individuals I work with are well-prepared, knowledgeable experts, with hands-on approach for problem-solving. They are reliable, and very supportive, with good communication skills.’

‘As compared with the other legal advisers of the company group, Szabó Kelemen & Partners Andersen Attorneys works with great enthusiasm regarding every and all legal issues, they are professionally well prepared and ready and able to understand also the business side /aspects of the transaction. This results much more deepened understanding and professional legal advisory. I am also impressed on the reaction time of the lawyers; therefore, we have a strong legal backup through the transactions.’

‘A great value of the Law Firm Andersen is that they are respected by the other law firms and legal advisors on a high level.’

‘László Kelemen is highly professional, prompt at answering and has rapid understanding of the legal issues. Huge experience regarding competition law issues and problems, expansive knowledge regarding the practice of the competition authorities and related judgements.’

‘Péter Vincze has a very high-level understanding of the business aspects of the transactions and therefore the ability to think together with the clients to find the best business decisions.’

‘Balázs Dominek has the ability to give an understandable and complex reaction and legal advisory.’

Key clients

Lightware


Work highlights


  • Advised a major Hungarian bank on an acquisition.
  • Represented a domestic financial undertaking in an unfair competition litigation.
  • Represented a leading domestic financial undertaking in a competition law arbitration case.

VJT & Partners

The competition team at VJT & Partners has seen a recent increase in consumer protection and compliance matters. The practice also continues to handle abuse of dominant position cases and merger control proceedings. Leveraging over 20 years’ experience, practice head Andrea Belényi leads all the firm’s competition matters and is adept at handling cases before the HCA. Kinga Kálmán advises on consumer protection matters, while Fanni Fehér is typically involved in unfair commercial matters. Eszter Vezse is another key name to note.

Practice head(s):

Andrea Belényi


Other key lawyers:

Eszter Vezse; Fanni Fehér; Kinga Kálmán


Testimonials

‘Great teamwork and varied knowledge within the team.’

‘Andrea Belényi is kind and very straightforward.’

‘The team is a highly responsive and motivated group of people with great expertise.’

‘Andrea Belényi is a great competition specialist.’

‘Always open to cooperation and have good ideas regarding legal problems arising from the client’s activity.’

‘Knowledge of consumer and financial institution law.’

Key clients

Google Ireland Ltd.


Google Kft.