BBA//Fjeldco
has a comprehensive corporate law offering, covering a wide range of legal services in M&A, capital markets, banking and corporate finance, energy and PFI projects, as well as general corporate and commercial matters. The practice is co-led by Halldór Karl Halldórsson, who specialises in complex domestic and cross-border M&A and corporate law; Einar Baldvin Árnason
, who advises major Icelandic companies and investment funds on corporate and commercial issues; and Bjarki Diego, who has over 30 years experience in corporate and commercial law. Ásgeir Ragnarsson is experienced in advising international corporations and financial institutions on a broad spectrum of corporate and commercial matters, while Baldvin Björn Haraldsson focuses on large M&A transactions in Iceland. Stefán Reykjalín and Jóhann Magnús Jóhannsson are also key members of the team.
Commercial, corporate and M&A in Iceland
BBA//Fjeldco
Practice head(s):
Halldór Karl Halldórsson; Einar Baldvin Árnason; Bjarki Diego
Other key lawyers:
Ásgeir Ragnarsson; Baldvin Björn Haraldsson; Stefán Reykjalín; Jóhann Magnús Jóhannsson
Key clients
Coloplast
Jörg Fior and Ralf Gentz
SRE III slhf.
SID ehf.
InvestorFlow
Work highlights
- Advised the acquirer of Kerecis, Iceland’s first unicorn, on a large and complex M&A transaction involving due diligence, structuring, drafting, and completion under Icelandic law.
- Advised Marel hf. on a voluntary takeover bid by John Bean Technologies Corporation (JBT), including drafting and structuring transaction documents, disclosure requirements, and navigating cross-border complexities involving Icelandic and US laws.
- Advised Kvika bank on the sale of TM tryggingar hf. to Landsbankinn hf., including vendor due diligence, drafting the share purchase agreement and related documents, and conducting competition analyses.
Juris
Juris, renowned for its ‘deep expertise in corporate law, combined with an open-minded and solution-driven approach’, assists clients with comprehensive corporate and commercial advice on all aspects of the business, particularly in the fishing, energy, hospitality, technology, and property development sectors. The practice is jointly led by Halldór Jónsson and Andri Árnason, who handle large-scale corporate and development projects, as well as financial regulatory matters. Simon Knight has extensive expertise in both Icelandic and English law and is well equipped to assist both Icelandic and international clients on a wide range of corporate matters across various industry sectors, including infrastructure and energy. Ingvar Ásmundsson is another key member, providing guidance to companies and investors on corporate issues, including offering support to start-ups.
Practice head(s):
Halldór Jónsson; Andri Árnason
Other key lawyers:
Simon Knight; Ingvar Ásmundsson
Testimonials
‘This law firm is unique due to its flexible approach and innovative mindset, particularly in corporate law. Potential clients would appreciate the team’s ability to think outside the box and tailor solutions to complex legal challenges. Compared to other firms, this practice stands out for its dynamic problem-solving skills, commitment to client-centric strategies, and adaptability to diverse situations.’
‘The individuals at this law firm stand out due to their deep expertise in corporate law, combined with an open-minded and solution-driven approach. They differ from competitors by being firm and decisive in their responses, demonstrating exceptional determination to achieve the best outcomes for their clients.’
‘Halldór Jónsson has unparalleled knowledge of corporate structures and regulations, consistently delivering creative, well-grounded solutions to complex issues. Andri Árnason is equally impressive, known for his sharp analytical skills and unwavering commitment to client success.’
Key clients
Kerecis hf.
Kvika banki hf.
Novator Partners LLP
HS Orka hf.
Sikmas ehf.
Ísfélag hf.
Lýsi hf.
Mjólkursamsalan ehf.
Summa Rekstrarfélag hf.
Nýsköpunarsjóður atvinnulífsins
Ice-Group ehf.
wpd international GmbH
Olink Holding AB
Work highlights
- Advised Ísfélag on its $800m listing on the Nasdaq Main Market.
- Advised on the sale of Dive is to Icelandia.
- Advised the management team of Kerecis on its sale to Coloplast.
Lex Law Offices
The ‘highly capable’ team at Lex Law Offices
has extensive experience in corporate and commercial law, advising clients on matters including corporate structure selection, drafting articles of association, handling large-scale and complex M&A transactions, and addressing cross-border issues. Co-head Guðmundur Ingvi Sigurðsson specialises in corporate taxation, M&A, and cross-border investments, while co-head Örn Gunnarsson offers advice to domestic and international financial institutions on corporate finance, M&A, and restructurings. Garðar Víðir Gunnarsson brings expertise in corporate and arbitration law, while ‘seasoned M&A lawyer’ Stefán Orri Ólafsson supports clients with M&A-related documentation for both buyers and sellers, in addition to offering general corporate law advice. Valuable associates Árni Freyr Sigurðsson and Kristinn Ingi Jónsson support the practice in corporate and M&A-related mandates.
Practice head(s):
Guðmundur Ingvi Sigurðsson; Örn Gunnarsson
Other key lawyers:
Garðar Víðir Gunnarsson; Stefán Orri Ólafsson; Árni Freyr Sigurðsson; Kristinn Ingi Jónsson
Testimonials
‘Very good team with a broad range of capabilities.’
‘Stefán Orri Ólafsson is a calm and thoughtful partner with a broad overall knowledge of the law and a far reach into Icelandic society.’
‘Lex Law Offices is highly capable, combining deep expertise with a practical approach to solving complex legal issues. They are responsive and efficient. Compared to other firms, they stand out for their balance of high-level legal insight and business pragmatism, making them an excellent partner for clients.’
‘Stefán Orri Ólafsson is a seasoned M&A lawyer who brings vast experience to the table. He is precise, reliable, and consistently provides strong commercial insights, making him an invaluable resource. Stefán is also highly communicative, always available, and fosters excellent client relationships.’
‘Kristinn Ingi Jónsson is an exceptional associate, known for his attention to detail and the quality of his work. He is diligent and consistently delivers at a very high standard, making him a strong asset to the team.’
‘Their professionalism and the personal attention they provide make them stand out from competitors, and I have valued their commitment to delivering practical, high-quality legal support.’
Key clients
JBT Corporation
Festi hf.
Indie Campers S.A.
Work highlights
- Advised JBT Corporation In connection with its takeover offer of Marel.
- Advised Fredensborg, a Nordic rental apartment company, in its sale of its Icelandic subsidiary, Heimstaden ehf. to Stefnir, an Icelandic investment fund manager.
- Advised Heimar hf. (formerly Reginn hf.) in connection with its voluntary offer to all shareholders of Eik real property company hf.
LOGOS
Renowned for its ‘superior knowledge’, LOGOS excels in all areas of commercial, corporate, and M&A law. Jointly led by Benedikt Egill Árnason and Freyr Snæbjörnsson, the practice is highly regarded for its expertise in both the local market and inbound investments, and is a trusted adviser on general corporate law matters. Árnason focuses on M&A, corporate and energy related work, acting for leading corporate clients and private equity firms, while Snæbjörnsson has extensive expertise advising on corporate financing transactions. Guðbjörg Helga Hjartardóttir and Thórólfur Jónsson provide counsel to both local and international clients on corporate finance and M&A matters, while Fannar Freyr Ívarsson supports venture capital funds and rapidly growing companies involved in venture capital in relation to M&A and fintech-related issues.
Practice head(s):
Benedikt Egill Árnason; Freyr Snæbjörnsson
Other key lawyers:
Thórólfur Jónsson; Guðbjörg Helga Hjartardóttir; Fannar Freyr Ívarsson; Óttar Pálsson; Elvar Jónsson
Testimonials
‘The Logos team consist of seasoned attorneys with a track record of favourable outcomes, who are well-versed in various areas of law. They prioritise clear communication, ensuring clients are informed and comfortable throughout the legal process. A collaborative approach among the team members contributes to comprehensive strategies tailored to each case, reflecting the firm’s dedication to excellence and integrity in legal services.’
‘The have superior knowledge and are professional and always well-prepared. They are responsive and service-minded to their customers. I would specifically want to mention Benedikt Egill Árnason and Elvar Jónsson.’
‘There are good and reliable people who work in Logos.’
‘Very synchronised team, excellent in assessing which legal expert to work on different projects.’
‘Leading team in Iceland.’
‘Benedikt Egill Árnason and Óttar Pálsson are main partner contacts both in the top of corporate, M&A and banking lawyers in Iceland.’
Key clients
BlackRock Inc
Goldman Sachs International
Arion Bank hf.
Barclays
Deutsche Bank
Computershare
Work highlights
- Advised Kerecis hf. and its shareholders on the sale of all shares in Kerecis hf. to Coloplast A/S (a Danish entity listed on the Danish stock exchange) for up to $1.3bn.
- Advised Siminn hf. on its acquisition of the total share capital of three advertisement companies, BBI ehf., Dengsi ehf. and Billboard ehf., that have advertisement screens in over 300 locations and 540 screens in 270 bus stops.
- Advised Eyrir Invest hf., the principal shareholder of Marel hf., holding approx. 24.7% of Marel’s share capital, with respect to the proposed acquisition of all the issued and outstanding stock of Marel hf. by John Bean Technologies Corporation, by way of a voluntary takeover bid, and related matters.
ADVEL Attorneys at Law
ADVEL Attorneys at Law‘s ‘strong team with extensive experience’ is well-versed within a range of corporate and commercial law matters, as well as M&A deals and debt capital market transactions. Practice leader Stefan Þór Ingimarsson, described as a ‘highly skilled lawyer with extensive experience in M&A and commercial law’, handles local and cross-border transactions, as well as refinancings and reorganisations of Icelandic companies. Dóra Sif Tynes is a leading expert for public institutions and companies on EEA and EU law, utilising her extensive litigation experience, while Bjarni Þór Bjarnason focuses on company law, M&A, and corporate financings.
Practice head(s):
Stefán Þór Ingimarsson
Other key lawyers:
Dóra Sif Tynes; Bjarni Þór Bjarnason
Testimonials
‘My dealings have been with Stefan Þór Ingimarsson who has coordinated work we have done together. The firm is full-service and offers an excellent service.’
‘Strong team with extensive experience.’
‘Stefán Þór Ingimarsson is an excellent corporate lawyer, great to deal with, calm, knowledgeable and always available.’
‘They are well-focused and respond in a timely fashion.’
‘Stefán Þór Ingimarsson is a highly skilled lawyer with extensive experience in M&A and commercial law, including cross-border deals. He is known for his quick responses and constant availability, making him a reliable and dependable professional. Clients appreciate his dedication and prompt attention to their needs.’
‘Stefán Þór Ingimarsson is knowledgeable, approachable and responsible.’
Key clients
Advania Group
VÍS (Iceland Insurance Company)
Klappir Green Solutions
Nasdaq CSD Iceland
Hampidjan
Work highlights
- Advised Arion Bank’s local counsel in arranging the bank’s EMNT and Covered Bonds programmes.
KPMG Law in Iceland
KPMG Law in Iceland handles commercial, corporate, and M&A transactions, and has ‘a broad and practical knowledge of everything that relates to setting up, growing, and operating a company’. The practice is jointly led by Jónas Rafn Tómasson, who focuses on the intersection of corporate and tax law and advises on significant M&A, competition issues, and private equity matters; and Ásgeir Skorri Thoroddsen, who advises companies engaged in international operations, investors, and shareholders on acquisitions, mergers, and financial activities. Key associate Ævar Hrafn Ingólfsson handles M&A, corporate financing, and both domestic and international tax law matters.
Practice head(s):
Jónas Rafn Tómasson; Ásgeir Skorri Thoroddsen
Other key lawyers:
Ævar Hrafn Ingólfsson; Davíð Freyr Guðjónsson; Helgi Mar Josepsson; Hrafnkell Óskarsson
Testimonials
‘The KPMG team is unique due to its ability to cover multiple practice areas through its experience dealing with cross-border and international transactions across various sectors. I have worked with them on financing, corporate restructuring and M&A deals and the KPMG team has always delivered in a professional and timely manner.’
‘I have primarily worked with Ásgeir Skorri Thoroddsen and Davíð Freyr Guðjónsson. I have found both of them to be experienced in their field and knowledgeable about potential issues and resolutions when dealing with complex cross-border financings and corporate restructurings.’
‘The team has a broad and practical knowledge of everything that relates to setting up, growing, and operating a company. I’ve used their professional services for the whole growth journey of my company, which now has a global reach. Their understanding of the accounts and numbers and how they are linked to what needs to be done from a legal perspective is an extra benefit that I don’t see everywhere.’
‘I have worked closely with Ásgeir Skorri Thoroddsen and Hrafnkell Óskarsson. They are always accessible, always thorough in their work, give clear answers and deliver on deadline. They are solutions oriented and often come up with better alternatives than what was originally asked of them. And I can feel that they care.’
‘KPMG Law in Iceland stands out due to its collaborative and solution-oriented approach. The team is uniquely equipped with deep expertise in commercial, corporate, and M&A matters, supported by a strong understanding of the Icelandic regulatory environment.’
‘Partners, such as Ásgeir Skorri Thorodssen, have been particularly impressive in their availability, engagement, and in-depth knowledge of both local and international markets. Associates, have also displayed outstanding attention to detail and an ability to handle complex matters swiftly.’
‘I would say the professionalism is what makes the team unique. The team handles collaboration with other companies if needed to make your own work as little as possible but still keeping you in the loop of everything that is going on.’
‘Helgi Mar Josepsson is the reason we speak so highly of KPMG. He is extremely professional in his work. During our most recent deal Helgi’s role was vital. He took care of literally everything and saved us tremendous amount of time and funds. Thinking outside the box and giving advice on situations we wouldn’t think of. Could not speak more highly if him!’
Key clients
Eignarhaldsfélagið Hof ehf.
Míla hf.
Blue Lagoon
Genís hf.
Styrkás hf.
Fiskeldi Austfjarða hf. (now Kaldvík hf.)
Hagar hf.
Sunstone IV hf.
Sunstone III ehf.
Kaupfélag skagfirðinga
Activity Stream ApS
Origo hf.
SmartWorks ehf.
Andes ehf.
Arctic Circle Hotels ehf
Algaíf Iceland hf.
Arkio ehf.
Smári ehf.
Stefnir
Prescriby ehf.
Arctic Adventures
Kraftur hf.
Neckcare ehf.
Work highlights
- Advised Genis ehf. on its recent funding round, successfully raising ISK1.1bn from private investors.
- Served as the legal advisers to Origo hf. on its sale of specific assets, namely Booking Factory, Reserva and Caren.
- Served as the legal adviser to the owner of SmartWorks ehf. in the sale of the entire issued share capital of the company to Signicant.
Réttur – Adalsteinsson & Partners
Praised as an ‘exceptional firm with a distinctive approach’, Réttur – Adalsteinsson & Partners‘ practice assists companies with M&A, corporate governance, management incentive plans, regulatory matters, and a wide array of corporate law related matters. The practice is co-led by Sigurður Örn Hilmarsson, who specialises in domestic and cross-border commercial litigation and insolvency proceedings. He is supported by Stefán Örn Stefánsson, who focuses on the financing, acquisition and sale of companies, and Oddur Ástráðsson, who is well-versed within corporate and commercial law, tax, and labour law. Key associate Alexander Hafþórsson handles high-profile corporate-related matters.
Practice head(s):
Sigurður Örn Hilmarsson; Stefán Örn Stefánsson; Oddur Ástráðsson
Other key lawyers:
Alexander Hafþórsson
Testimonials
‘We have primarily worked with Sigurður Örn Hilmarsson and Stefán Örn Stefánsson from the firm. Both have handled their responsibilities with the utmost professionalism. In recent months, Stefán has been our main point of contact, and his contributions have been incredibly valuable to the company. I can’t recommend him highly enough.’
‘I have been in close contact with the team at Réttur and I find myself lucky to have found them, very customer oriented, professional and fair. Réttur helped me every step of the way in the process of selling my company and I always felt that I had a 100% dedication from them, always ready to and quick response.’
‘Stefán Örn Stefánsson has stood by my side every step of every way that I have taken, very easy communications and professional advice and work.’
‘Rettur is an exceptional firm with a distinctive approach. What truly sets their team apart is their ability to handle complex issues promptly and effectively. Their proactive approach and deep understanding of the financial aspects of legal matters are impressive. We look forward to choosing them again and again.’
‘The team at Rettur have worked out all documents for a few M&A deals. They have proved to be very professional and the deal has gone through with no problems.’
‘We have been working with the firm for several years now. They respond to our matters promptly and make us feel well taken care of. All the work they have done for us, from agreements to other legal aspects of our operations, has consistently been of the highest quality.’
‘We highly appreciate the team for their client-focused service. Their teamwork and results-oriented approach are also noteworthy from a client’s perspective, which is always pleasant to see.’
‘Stefán Örn Stefánsson and Alexander Hafþórsson. Young, up and coming lawyers with experience in M&A belying their relatively few years of practice. Disciplined and always available. They get the job done.’
Key clients
Landsvirkjun
Arion Banki hf.
Deutsche Lufthansa AG
Work highlights
- Advised Icelandic Water Holdings hf. (and its founders) on a large-scale sale of a majority stake to foreign investors, which included its financial restructuring and securing a $10m convertible from BlackRock.
- Advised Monerium ehf. in respect to $2m bridge financings by way of issuance of convertible notes, and on various cross-border commercial agreements concerning its expansion abroad.
- Advised GODO (Flekaskil ehf.) on a M&A transaction where GODO acquired the travel software segment from Origo hf.
Deloitte Legal ehf.
Deloitte Legal ehf.
, part of the firm's broader global network, advises clients on corporate, commercial, and M&A matters. The practice is co-led by Þórdís Bjarnadóttir, who brings expertise in corporate law to sectors such as the real estate, retail, and finance spaces, and Guðbjörg Þorsteinsdóttir, who specialises in buy-side and vendor due diligence for targets in diverse industries, and handles international and cross-border transactions.
Practice head(s):
Þórdís Bjarnadóttir; Guðbjörg Þorsteinsdóttir
Other key lawyers:
Sandra Lind Valsdóttir
Testimonials
‘The practice is in the forefront in Iceland when it comes to VAT and financial matters.’
‘The professionality of the staff and partners is outstanding and they are easily accessible. Their VAT expert, Sandra Lind Valsdóttir is the foremost expert on value added tax in the country and a great asset to them.’
Key clients
deCODE genetics
HS Orka hf.
Work highlights
- Advised a listed Icelandic company on a legal restructuring in connection with a complex cross-border voluntary takeover offer to its shareholders, addressing significant legal and tax considerations.
- Advised IS Haf fjárfestingar slhf., a private equity fund, on its investment in two Icelandic entities across separate transactions, including transactional advisory, deal structuring, drafting documentation, and legal buy-side due diligence.
- Advised Kaldalón hf. on vendor legal due diligence for its listing on the Icelandic Nasdaq OMX stock exchange.
Lagahvoll
Lagahvoll has expertise in corporate matters within the financial industry, focusing on corporate development, drafting, negotiating, and project management. The practice is jointly led by founding partner Daði Bjarnason, who specialises in company law and financial and restructuring issues for financial companies, as well as those undergoing restructuring or winding-up proceedings. He is supported by District Court Attorney Jóhann Tómas Sigurðsson, renowned for his broad knowledge of corporate legal affairs and over 15 years of experience in the financial market.
Practice head(s):
Daði Bjarnason; Jóhann Tómas Sigurðsson
Testimonials
‘Having the law firm Lagahvoll working for us is an essential asset to the development work and operation work that we are doing. Lagahvoll has a 360 degree of knowledge in all the fields that we need legal assistance in and can communicate important information to large companies and organisations.’
‘We are very lucky to have Jóhann Tómas Sigurðsson working for us. He has such a broad knowledge of corporate legal affairs and no matter where and how we approach him with different problems to solve or to assist us on, Mr. Sigurðsson has always delivered.’
‘Very smart and solution-oriented.’
‘It is my pleasure to extend my utmost admiration and appreciation for Jóhann Tómas Sigurðsson, who is by us regarded as one of the absolutely best corporate and banking lawyers in Iceland. His legal expertise, coupled with his deep understanding of corporate law, has consistently set him apart in a highly competitive field.’
‘He has an unparalleled ability to navigate complex legal landscapes with precision and confidence, making even the most challenging cases seem manageable. His professionalism, coupled with his clear and spot on communication, ensures that we always feel informed, empowered, and confident in their legal decisions.’
‘Best in class in providing problem solving, efficient and well constructed legal advice.’
Key clients
Dohop ehf.
Ísorka ehf.
Landslog – Law Offices
Landslog – Law Offices advises major corporations, large entities, and the Icelandic government on commercial, corporate, and M&A matters. Practice leader Viðar Lúðvíksson, who has over 25 years of experience, specialises in handling large-scale and complex M&A transactions in Iceland. Grímur Sigurðsson and Jóna Björk Helgadóttir add extensive experience in mergers and share acquisitions, assisting a diverse range of clients.
Practice head(s):
Viðar Lúðvíksson
Other key lawyers:
Grímur Sigurðsson; Jóna Björk Helgadóttir; Hlynur Halldorsson; Jón Gunnar Ásbjörnsson
Key clients
Isavia (Icelandic Airport and Air Traffic Management)
DeCode Genetics
Icelandic Regional Development
The National University Hospital
Islandsbanki
Alvogen Pharmaceuticals
Work highlights
- Advised the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration on major traffic structures planned to be built on the basis of the newly approved law on Public-Private Partnerships.
- Advised Ljosleidarin on due diligence, financing of the core telecoms network sale, drafting a long-term service agreement for network and wholesale telecoms services, and managing regulatory notifications to the Icelandic Competition Authority and the Electronic Communication Office of Iceland.
- Advised Norvik on the company’s takeover bid for all shares of Bergs Timber AB (a company registered in Nasdaq Nordic Stock Exchange), for a total amount in excess of ISK19bn.