Firms To Watch: Fintech

Ernst & Young LLP bolstered its capabilities in the fintech sector with the hire of Addleshaw Goddard practice head Fiona Ghosh in early 2022.
James Burnie arrived at gunnercooke LLP from Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP in May 2020, expanding the firm’s fintech offering. The practice handles blockchain, payment services and AI matters, and Burnie has significant experience in cryptocurrencies.
McDermott Will & Emery UK LLP recently designated fintech as a formal practice area sector, appointing Arvin Abraham, formerly of HSBC and Morgan Stanley, to lead the UK offering. The ‘approachable and competent‘ Abraham, who was promoted to partner in January 2022, is praised for his ‘excellent US/UK expertise‘.

Fintech in London

Allen & Overy LLP

Allen & Overy LLP handles regulatory issues within the fintech space as well as various projects for traditional and emerging technology platforms. Ben Regnard-Weinrabe leads the practice, which also includes senior associate Charlotte Rowlandson.

Practice head(s):

Ben Regnard-Weinrabe

Other key lawyers:

Charlotte Rowlandson

Testimonials

‘There is great leadership, experience and relationship management from the partners, and the quality of associates in London is very high.’

Clifford Chance LLP

Clifford Chance LLP has expertise across M&A, technology, data privacy, financial regulation and insurtech matters. Other areas of focus include capital markets, tax, antitrust, intellectual property, ethics, cybersecurity and litigation work. The practice advises tech-focused corporates and financial institutions, regulators and governments, insurance companies, financial investors and disruptors. Simon Crown leads the team alongside Jonathan Kewley, with the latter focusing on the cutting-edge areas of technology ethics, data, AI, cybersecurity and blockchain regulation. Kate Scott completes the leadership trio, specialising in fintech litigation. Monica Sah is recognised for her work relating to regulatory change for global financial institutions and disruptor blockchain providers. André Duminy, also head of the firm’s London technology sector focus group, global outsourcing department and UK commercial practice, is another key member of the team, while senior associate Diego Ballon Ossio advises technology companies, financial institutions and other market participants on the regulatory aspects of digital asset trading and custody issues.

Practice head(s):

Simon Crown; Jonathan Kewley; Kate Scott

Other key lawyers:

Monica Sah; André Duminy; Diego Ballon Ossio

Testimonials

‘Andre Duminy navigated an extremely difficult and complex anti-trust led auction process in a tight timeline involving the market leading fintech wrap platform business with global application.’

‘Andrey Duminy and Monica Sah provide oversight and insights that can make the difference between success and stagnation.

‘Diego Ballon Ossio was able to provide a service that several other Magic Circle law firms were unable to.’

‘Diego Ballon Ossio was our main point of contact and was incredible throughout.’

‘Diego Ballon Ossio’s ability to provide practical and commercial advice within a sector that is notoriously difficult to navigate was a true joy to watch.’

‘Diego Ballon Ossio is an exceptional lawyer and has extensive knowledge and understanding of his subject matter from both a legal and commercial standpoint.’

‘Monica Sah was extremely approachable and committed – she and her team deserve a 5 star review for the quality of their advice and service.’

‘Diego Ballon Ossio is technically very good. He understands the financial services sector very well and applies this to fintech and crypto.’

Key clients

Mastercard International Incorporated

Anchorage Capital Partners

FIS

Payward Ltd (Kraken)

Coinbase

Paysafe

MarketAxess

City Football Group Ltd (Manchester City Football Club)

Liverpool Football Club and Athletic Grounds Limited

Solstarter

Work highlights

  • Represented Mastercard on its acquisition of Nets’ account-to-account payments business.
  • Advised Anchorage Capital Partners, a leading global private equity fund with extensive financial services and systems experience, on the acquisition of GBST, a leading global wealth management platform from FNZ.
  • Advised a large fortune 500 fintech company on its largest ever outsourcing taking over a US investment management firm’s core operation (including around 800 staff and existing systems and processes).

Hogan Lovells International LLP

Hogan Lovells International LLP focuses on the fintech, virtual currency, blockchain, payments, consumer finance, robo-advice and transactional banking sectors. The practice has seen an increase in instructions in relation to blockchain and digital assets, cryptocurrency and buy now pay later issues. The firm’s expertise in fintech extends across a number of practice groups, including the financial services regulation, corporate transactions, intellectual property, technology, and data protection practices. Global head of fintech Emily Reid leads the team and has considerable experience advising established players and start-ups who are disrupting and challenging traditional financial technology models. John Salmon oversees the blockchain and digital assets practice; he is recommended for handling IT services contracts relating to development projects, software licensing, cloud issues, and systems integrations. James Black and Jonathan Chertkow deal with fintech regulatory issues, and Anthony Doolittle is another key name to note.

Practice head(s):

Emily Reid

Other key lawyers:

John Salmon; James Black; Jonathan Chertkow; Anthony Doolittle

Testimonials

‘We have worked with Hogan Lovells across a number of practice areas and they are our go-to for expertise and delivery.’

‘They take time to really understand the intricate details of the model we are trying to achieve which is no mean feat.’

‘There isn’t really any niche part of the FinTech industry that they haven’t or couldn’t advise on.’

‘Emily Reid is the beating heart of the Hogna Lovells FinTech practice and its most passionate proponent. She also has a unique ability to adopt the FinTech “whiteboard” mentality and really think things through from first principles.’

‘James Black is incredibly knowledgable, prompt in responses, crystal clear in comms and very impressive.’

Key clients

AXA PPP Healthcare Group Limited

Bloom

Banked

Covertech

Credit Karma

Credit Kudos

Curve UK Limited

Fairscore / Updraft

Floww

Fygo

Global Digital Finance

Habito

Moneyfold

Monzo Bank

Open Banking Limited

PayPal

Paysafe

Pivotal Group

Santander Innoventures

WeCovr

Zopa

Work highlights

  • Advosed Zopa on the disposal of its P2P platform subsidiary Zopa Limited to Zopa shareholder IAG Silverstripe.
  • Advised a digital asset service provider on all legal aspects relating to its launch in the UK and advising on the legal aspect of the design of its new investment products and services.
  • Assisted Monzo on the launch of an investment service under which customers will be able to deal in investment funds using their banking app.

Latham & Watkins

Latham & Watkins advises traditional financial institutions, investors, emerging fintech businesses as well as internet companies that are developing financial offerings, such as payment and lending platforms. The cross-disciplinary team handles matters relating to blockchain, cryptocurrency, tokenisation, payments, cloud, artificial intelligence, electronic trading, cybersecurity, digital banking and technology outsourcing. Practice head Andrew Moyle advises clients across the fintech space on technological issues, encompassing payments and transfers, insurtech and virtual currencies. Stuart Davis is recommended for his work on market infrastructure, blockchain and tokenisation, cryptocurrency, Web3 and payment services mandates. Christian McDermott has considerable experience in payments and cryptocurrencies, and Fiona Maclean supports fintech clients on data privacy and strategy issues.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Moyle

Other key lawyers:

Stuart Davis; Christian McDermott; Fiona Maclean

Testimonials

‘The practice is unique in that it is a dedicated practice that can draw on other parts of the firms as necessary.’

‘Stuart Davis is outstanding with his complete knowledge of the sector and ability to translate complex or developing concepts into something that is applicable in real life. For us, Stuart walks on water.’

‘The team are well positioned within the fintech community itself. They are collaborators, connectors and subject matter experts.’

‘The quality of those that work throughout Latham & Watkins is exceptional. Stuart Davis is always on hand to help, answers my questions quickly and clearly.’

‘An excellent ‘fintech first’ financial regulation team.’

‘Stuart Davis is excellent. He as an incredible breadth of experience and truly global practice.’

Key clients

Meta

Shift4

Farfetch

PayU

Square

Payoneer

eToro

Central Bank of Egypt

Celsius Network

Work highlights

  • Advised on the £8bn Direct Listing of Wise on the London Stock Exchange.
  • Advised Shift4 on acquisitions of Finaro, an eCommerce payments provider, and The Giving Block, a prominent crypto donation marketplace.
  • Advised Madison Dearborn Partners on its $1.8bn acquisition of MoneyGram, a global leader in money transfer services and the evolution of digital P2P payments.

Linklaters LLP

Linklaters LLP provides the full spectrum of transactional and regulatory advice on fintech projects for e-money and financial institutions, challenger banks, infrastructure and payment services providers, and technology companies. The practice supports fintech clients with anti-trust matters, disputes and crisis management work, employment issues and tax advice. Key product areas of focus include digital assets, payment systems and digital payments, corporate restructuring matters and, data, cyber and technology disputes. Julian Cunningham-Day leads the global fintech team, specialising in technology projects in the financial services and other regulated industries. Group co-heads Harry Eddis and Fionnghuala Griggs have expertise in financial markets regulation and fintech-sector based M&A work, respectively. Head of UK fintech, counsel Richard Hay, has considerable experience in new product developments in the context of market infrastructure. Michael Voisin and Lisa Chang (who made partner in 2022) are further key names to note.

Practice head(s):

Julian Cunningham-Day; Harry Eddis; Fionnghuala Griggs; Richard Hay

Other key lawyers:

Michael Voisin; Lisa Chang

Testimonials

‘Linklaters’ fintech practice is excellent because it is based around the firm’s pre-eminent capital markets practice. All the individuals with whom we deal are skilled, knowledgeable, and highly responsive.’

‘Richard Hay has a unique practice and therefore a unique perspective.’

‘Michael Voisin co-ordinates our overall relationship, and although he is primarily a capital markets lawyer his generalist approach is invaluable to us.’

‘Very deep legal understanding of M&A processes and the financial markets including fintechs, highly efficient handling of projects, excellent project management.’

‘Linklaters has unique capabilities in the fintech ecosystem, specifically when it comes to blockchain.’

‘The team is well suited to more large scale and fintech projects.’

‘Richard Hay is an upcoming leader.’

Key clients

European Investment Bank

Fnality International

Moneyfarm

Quantile Technologies Ltd

Wise Plc

Work highlights

  • Advised Fnality International Ltd on the establishment of its blockchain-based global payment system.
  • Advised fintech company, Wise, on its £9bn direct listing on the London Stock Exchange.
  • Advised the European Investment Bank on its first digital bond on the Ethereum public blockchain.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright’s multidisciplinary practice combines the firm’s strengths in the financial services and technology sectors; this allows for collaboration across the banking, insurance, financial services regulatory, IP/IT, corporate, payments, disputes and tax departments. The practice handles the breadth of work in the fintech space including advice on P2P platforms, payment systems, regtech and insurtech issues, artificial intelligence, smart contracts, blockchain and cryptocurrencies. Global head of fintech Sean Murphy advises on investments, acquisitions and joint ventures in the fintech sector. Co-head of payments Victoria Birch focuses on fundraisings, investments and acquisitions as well as the legal and regulatory issues relating to the deployment of blockchain and distributed ledger technology. Hannah Meakin leads the firm’s regulatory fintech offering and is also an expert in cryptocurrencies and tokens. Nicholas Berry completes the leadership team and oversees the insurtech practice. Beyond partner level, counsel Albert Weatherill is another key member of the department. Charlotte Rowlandson departed for Allen & Overy LLP in 2021.

Practice head(s):

Sean Murphy; Victoria Birch; Hannah Meakin; Nicholas Berry

Other key lawyers:

Albert Weatherill

Testimonials

‘Deep knowledge of fintech, digital assets, blockchain technology.’

‘ The team are knowledgeable but also very good at explaining strategies and intricacies to their clients.’

‘I can’t really praise Nicholas Berry highly enough.’

Key clients

AIG

Anansi

Arch

FMO

HSBC Investment Bank

Global Parametrics

Global Blockchain Business Council

IG Markets

InsurWave

Kneip

Nexus Mutual

Northern Trust

Pay.UK

Paxos (formerly itBit)

Paypal

Post Trade Distributed Ledger Group

Riskbook

Revenio Capital

SmartCo

Stable Group

Standard Chartered Bank

Starling Bank

Superfluid

TPAY

Zego

Zurich

Work highlights

  • Advised Starling Bank on its strategic acquisition of a £1bn mortgage book from Kensington Mortgages.
  • Advised a Government-owned UK high street name on a landmark partnership with a multinational financial services company to launch international money transfer services in 4,000 branches throughout the UK.
  • Acted for insurtech unicorn Marshmallow in the high-profile successful defence of IP infringement, breach of fiduciary duty, and passing off claims asserted by Mulsanne Insurance Company.

Ashurst

Ashurst advises global banking and financial services companies on fintech ventures as well disruptors and start-ups on innovative projects. The practice is also recommended for its growing digital finance work, specifically in relation to digital assets. The team is overseen by a senior leadership quartet: Etay Katz co-chairs the firm’s bank industry sector group, advising leading banks on regulatory change projects, and David Futter handles complex technology-led fintech procurements and collaborative partnerships, while Bradley Rice focuses on the transformation of capital markets using digital/tokenised assets, and technology specialist Tara Waters is responsible for designing, developing and delivering innovative technology-based solutions to clients. Jonathan Cohen is recognised for his work in the corporate technology M&A space.

Practice head(s):

Etay Katz; David Futter; Tara Waters; Bradley Rice

Other key lawyers:

Jonathan Cohen; Sid Ulker

Testimonials

‘Each member of the team brings a unique skill set that is needed to comprehensively solve problems in a meaningful way.’

‘This team has a great financial regulatory footprint which is essential when working on any fintech project.’

‘Etay Katz and Sid Ulker are fantastic financial regulatory experts who have successfully adapted their skills to the new world of financial technology.’

‘A highly skilled team that is very knowledgable, experienced, responsive and commercial.’

‘David Futter is experienced, knowledgable, responsive, hands on, extremely commercial.’

‘Jonathan Cohen has always shown tremendous knowledge and interest in our business, and always puts commercial considerations at the forefront of his advice.’

Key clients

British Business Bank

Marcus by Goldman Sachs

Asto Digital (Part of Santander Group)

eToro Group

Nomura

Nomisma Exchange

McLaren Group

Monument Bank

Vauban Technologies Limited

Zenus Bank

Ioconic

Ramp Swap

District34

Online Giving (dba Enthuse)

Step Ladder

Spark Change

Work highlights

  • Advised a participant in the ground-breaking Project Jura transaction, which involved the settlement of two Central Bank Digital Currencies issued by the French and Swiss Central Banks in a cross-border payment transaction.
  • Long-standing adviser to digital trading platform eToro on various fintech mandates, including advising in relation to its circa. $10.4bn floatation on NASDAQ through a business combination with FinTech Acquisition Corp. V (FinTech V).
  • Advised Sprints Capital in relation to its participation in Revolut’s $800m Series E funding round.

Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie acts for clients across the fintech ecosystem, including banks and financial services companies, fintechs and technology companies. The practice has particular capabilities in new technologies, notably blockchain and DLT. The multidisciplinary team includes practitioners from the tax, corporate, IP, employment and competition departments. Practice head Sue McLean handles technology-related matters within the fintech space, and co-head and financial services regulatory lawyer Mark Simpson advises fintech clients on all aspects of UK and EU financial regulations. Associate Sarah Williams focuses on payment products, retail investment platforms, consumer lending and crypto-assets.

Practice head(s):

Sue McLean

Other key lawyers:

Mark Simpson; Sarah Williams

Key clients

Raisin Deposit Solutions

Ebury

HSBC

Veridium

Mollie

Finbourne

De Giro

R3

Afterpay

Bird & Bird LLP

Bird & Bird LLP is recommended for its work in payments, crowdfunding, open banking and blockchain. The practice often handles cross-border corporate, commercial and regulatory matters, including data protection issues. Practice head Trystan Tether focuses on electronic banking and financial services, cryptocurrency and payment mechanism mandates, while co-head Jonathan Emmanuel advises on a variety of technology and commercial projects, often assisting clients with disruptive digital technology adoption. Christian Bartsch is noted for his work on emerging and disruptive technologies, and senior financial services regulatory specialist Gavin Punia deals with the regulation of digital wealth management services, payment services and electronic money products. Senior associate Christina Fleming joined from Charles Russell Speechlys LLP in 2021, offering expertise in blockchain, open banking, payments technology, cryptoassets, cryptocurrency, NFTs and open source software.

Practice head(s):

Trystan Tether; Jonathan Emmanuel

Other key lawyers:

Christian Bartsch; Gavin Punia; Christina Fleming

Testimonials

‘Unique understanding of the payments industry (PSD2) and the fintech sector. Strong technological understanding.’

‘The team has a strict focus on the fintech sector. This provides them with deep industry knowledge, which makes them invaluable.’

‘Jonathan Emmanuel is a very engaged partner. He is always helpful and on hand for balanced and commercial advice.’

‘Gavin Punia provides excellent regulatory advice. He has a fantastic overview of the fintech sector and his advice is always concise and on point.’

 

Key clients

Bitcoin developers

Mastercard

Jobandtalent

Crypto Open Patent Alliance (COPA)

TransferTo

EMPCorp

Work highlights

  • Instructed in mid-2021 following a competitive tender process run by COPA to handle its litigation in relation to the ownership rights of Bitcoin.
  • Acted for TransferTo, a cross-border mobile payment company, in connection with claims brought against it by an investment advisor regarding sums alleged to be due and payable under an investment advisory agreement.

Deloitte Legal

Deloitte Legal acquired Kemp Little in 2021, incorporating its fintech practice in the process. The team handles the full gamut of fintech issues, including digital payments and e-money work, open banking, crypto and blockchain issues and insurtech matters. The commercial technology department works closely alongside lawyers from the financial regulation, data protection, IP, corporate and employment legal teams. Practice head Chris Hill specialises in fintech contracting, including software, cloud, data, IP licensing, AI and open banking issues. Jacob Ghanty handles financial regulation matters, while Rich Folsom is recommended for dealing with cryptocurrency issues. The team has been bolstered by the arrival of director Richard Aitchison in June 2021.

Practice head(s):

Chris Hill

Other key lawyers:

Jacob Ghanty; Rich Folsom; Richard Aitchison

Key clients

Flux

Chip Financial

Fluidly

Quantexa

Assure Hedge

Monese

NALA Payments

Banking Circle

Credit Kudos

Fractal Labs

ScribePay

Work highlights

  • Advised Flux on the launch of its automated cashback offers product based on itemised receipt data.
  • Advised Chip Financial on its move to interest bearing savings products.
  • Advised Quantexa on its $153m Series D funding round.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper  is recognised for its breadth of work across the fintech arena, representing new fintech platforms and disruptive fintech models as well as advising on the protection of technology driven products. Practice head Martin Bartlam supports clients on a variety of activities relating to digital assets, cryptocurrencies, NFTS and digital infrastructure. Co-head Anthony Day has expertise in relation to fintech projects, encompassing the technology and regulatory aspects. Sophie Lessar and legal director David Cook are also key names to note.

Practice head(s):

Martin Bartlam; Anthony Day

Other key lawyers:

Sophie Lessar; David Cook

Testimonials

‘Technology innovator.’

‘Martin Bartlam is an outstanding individual.’

‘They are a great team and wonderful partner for us.’

Key clients

ING Bank N.V.

Archax Limited

EQT Ventures

Eldridge

Athora

Willis Towers Watson

Provenir

Land Technologies Limited

Revolut Ltd

Montis Digital

Lendable

Work highlights

  • Assisted Provenir, a cloud-based software company specialising in credit risk decisioning, with developing a strategic partnership with TransUnion International UK Limited, a major global credit reporting and data insights company.
  • Advised Land Technologies on all aspects of it £42m Series A investment from Updata Partners, a venture capital fund based in Washington, D.C.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP handles AI and data, biometrics, blockchain, crypto-asset, M&A and operational resilience work for fintech clients, financial institutions and investors. The team also advises on issues related to IT platforms and the cloud, data protection matters, payment regulations and disputes. Practice head Matthew Gough specialises in commercial arrangements, including the terms and conditions of supply and purchase, IT and outsourcing agreements, and software licensing work. Craig Rogers focuses on the creation of banking, investment and insurance platforms, cloud computing and cybersecurity issues, as well as, regulatory compliance in technology and outsourcing arrangements. Cardiff-based Eve England and Paul Pugh are further key members of the department.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Gough

Other key lawyers:

Craig Rogers; Eve England; Paul Pugh

Testimonials

‘Craig Rogers is exceptionally responsive and knowledgeable on all things Kenya and fintech.’

‘Matthew Gough and Eve England are best in class.’

Key clients

Insig AI plc

Pivotal Growth Limited

Universe Group plc

Investment Management Corporation of Ontario

Aon group

Broadridge Financial Solutions

Kubrick Group

Maia Technology

Admiral Group Plc

ZOPA Limited and Zopa Bank

Monzo Bank

Nexo Capital Inc

FLEETCOR Technologies Inc

Pollen Street Capital

Specialist Risk Group

Jaja Finance Limited

FLEETCOR Technologies, Inc.

Kingswood Holdings Limited

Lumon Holdings Limited

Aryza Holdings Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Nairobi International Financial Centre, TheCityUK, HM Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Government of Kenya on a new fintech policy and regulatory framework for Kenya.
  • Acted for Insig AI, a data science and machine learning solutions company, in relation to a deal to deliver ESG scoring tools to an investment company as its outsourced technology partner.
  • Advised on the formation of Pivotal Growth Limited, a joint venture established with the aim of building a leading, UK-wide mortgage broker.

Fieldfisher

Fieldfisher’s fintech offering focuses on platform regulation and risk management, receivables finance, corporate fundraising, payments services, open banking and cloud/SaaS solutions as well as financial firm digital transformations. Department lead Simon Briskman has considerable experience acting for banks and other financial institutions on technology and outsourcing issues. John Brunning advises fintechs, banks and other financial services stakeholders on technology related projects; this includes helping banking clients move into the cloud and advising on digital transformation programmes for financial institutions. The trio comprising Tom Ward, Tim Bird and James Walsh are also recommended, with the latter having expertise in cloud-based platforms, payment services and new technology platforms. Thomas Colmer has added to the team’s strength in depth, arriving in October 2021 from PwC LLP.

Practice head(s):

Simon Briskman

Other key lawyers:

Tom Ward; Tim Bird; Josh Brunning; James Walsh; Thomas Colmer; Marsili Hale

Key clients

Adaptive Financial Consulting Limited

Glory Ltd

Superfluid Finance

Fuel Ventures

Work highlights

  • Advised on one of the largest UK capital markets fintech fundraisings of the year, a $200m+ C series round.
  • Advised on Glory Ltd’s sale of ViaFintech to Paysafe.
  • Advised leading UK EIS fund Fuel Ventures on four venture capital financings over 2021 of innovative UK growth companies, including its £4.5m financing of Feast It and its £3m financing of UK fintech Wollit.

Osborne Clarke LLP

Osborne Clarke LLP’s full-service team is recognised for its work in the fintech platform, technology, corporate and regulatory spaces. The department advises a variety of clients including fintech unicorns, challenger banks, payment companies, retail and SME finance platforms, financial institutions and technology businesses. Recently, the practice has seen an increase in instructions within the buy now pay later market. Nikki Worden leads the team alongside Mark Wesker, with the latter focusing on corporate fintech work. Paul Anning has expertise in payments, while Mark Taylor advises fintechs on innovative IT development, implementation and exploitation issues, data protection work and outsourcing matters. Rachel Couter supports fintechs in cutting-edge FCA investigations. Paul Harris joined the firm from Linklaters LLP in 2022.

Practice head(s):

Nikki Worden; Mark Wesker

Other key lawyers:

Paul Anning; Paul Harris; Mark Taylor; Rachel Couter; Tom Try; James Tarleton; Ben Player

Testimonials

‘Osborne Clarke’s fintech team is commercial and responsive to small discrete legal queries as well as big-ticket requests.’

‘Nikki Worden is commercial, practical, has sound knowledge of the market and offers valuable insights on dealing with regulators.’

‘Ben Player is technically strong, a good communicator and distils complex regulation into clear and practical advice.’

‘Nikki Worden and Ben Player are highly specialised with a deep knowledge of the industry and regulatory environment.’

‘Nikki Worden and Ben Player work very collaboratively and it is unique to have two such knowledgeable individuals in the same team.’

‘Led by Nikki Worden, the team are astute and understand our business. They’ll ensure all regulatory requirements are met but use their experience to support the best customer journey possible.’

‘Nikki Worden knows her stuff and knows the business.’

‘Mark Wesker is very commercial and provided helpful insight into the market.’

Key clients

Advanced Payments Solutions (Cash Plus)

Wirecard Solutions

gohenry

Revolut

Clearbank

Salary Finance

Liberis

Totally Money

Hargreaves Lansdowne

Airbnb Payments

Microsoft

UK Finance

Flywire

Liberis

Square

GoCardless

Vocalink

Work highlights

  • Advised Liberis on financing and corporate transactions and a full scale international strategic review.
  • Advised Clearbank on strategic matters including European initiatives and its relationship with Tide Business Banking.
  • Advised Wirecard UK in relation to the sale of parts of its business and assets to Railsbank and the solvent wind down of the remainder of the business.

Slaughter and May

Slaughter and May represents a wide-range of clients across the fintech space, including challenger neobanks as well as insurtech, payment, financial regulation and financial data companies. The team also advises financial services and technology clients on their strategic projects within the fintech market. The firm continues to run the ‘Fast Forward’ incubator programme, which supports the work of technology entrepreneurs and innovators. After the departure of Ben Kingsley in April 2022, Rob Sumroy now co-heads the practice alongside newly promoted partner James Cook, who advises fintech companies on corporate transactions. Jan Putnis handles financial regulatory issues, while associate David Shone acts for fintech start-ups and challengers on a variety of matters.

Practice head(s):

Rob Sumroy; James Cook

Other key lawyers:

Jan Putnis; David Shone

Testimonials

‘Good variety of expertise in the team, able to cover in depth technical as well as commercial challenges.’

‘Very pragmatic and strategic legal advice.’

Key clients

Wise

Stripe

Checkout.com

Revolut

Monzo

OakNorth

DoJo Paymentsense

Jeeves

Credit Karma

Zodia

Klarna

PrimaryBid

TrueLayer

Alpha FX

Y Tree Limited

Aztec Protocol

Bud Financial

TreasurySpring

FNZ

Novus

Uncapped

By Miles

Tully

As investors in fintech:

SC Ventures

SoftBank Vision Fund

Ripplewood

Farallon

Euroclear

abrdn

Omers Ventures

Balderton Capital

Cocoa

Silicon Valley Bank

Work highlights

  • Handled Revolut’s series E fundraising, which valued Revolut as one of the most valuable fintech companies in the UK ($33bn).
  • Advused Wise (formerly TransferWise), the London-based financial technology company with a valuation of over £5bn, on a range of legal and regulatory assignments this year, including the launch of its investment product in the UK and Europe and governance-related matters.
  • Advised SC Ventures, the innovation and ventures unit of Standard Chartered, on its partnership with BC Group, Asia’s leading digital asset company, to launch a cryptocurrency brokerage and exchange platform for institutional and corporate clients in the UK and Europe.

Addleshaw Goddard

Addleshaw Goddard provides a full-service offering to its fintech clients. David Anderson and Elvan Hussein are the key contacts. Fiona Ghosh departed for Ernst & Young LLP in 2022.

Other key lawyers:

David Anderson; Elvan Hussein; Mandy Hulme; Toby Davies; Clare Hughes; James Woodward

Testimonials

‘A highly client-focused firm, evidenced in their ways of working.’

‘Mandy Hulme and Toby Davies are very knowledgable individuals who have a strong grasp of the commercial implications of legal and regulatory decisions.’

‘Clare Hughes has an excellent knowledge of regulations.’

‘David Anderson and James Woodward are both excellent.’

Bristows LLP

Bristows LLP has expertise in AI, robotics, distributed ledger technologies and blockchain. The client base ranges from fintechs and challenger banks, investors, SMEs, academic institutions through to banks and large multinationals. Practice head Louise Eldridge undertakes M&A, venture capital investment transactions and joint ventures for clients in the fintech sector. Elridge also has particular expertise in blockchain and DLT, digital transformation, regtech and insurtech mandates. The duo of Toby Crick and Marc Dautlich are also recognised as key members of the team, with the latter focusing on matters at the intersection of technology and data protection issues.

Practice head(s):

Louise Eldridge

Other key lawyers:

Toby Crick; Marc Dautlich

Testimonials

‘Exceptional practice, well motivated, and proactive.’

‘Louise Eldridge is exceptional, really on top of her game.’

‘Toby Crick is the perfect blend of technology geek, legal expert, genuine understanding of commercial interest of the business, delivery of advice in a form which I need.’

Key clients

Quant Networks

Optal Financial ltd

Littlepay

Eigen technologies

Latent Logic

Core Logic

Aspen Insurance

Adthena

ISB Global

The Guardian

Isle of Man Enterprises Plc

Work highlights

  • Advised Baringa Partners on two related IT matters: developing a set of templates for the commercialisation of Baringa’s climate change risk modelling technology, and the sale of its climate change scenario model to leading asset management firm BlackRock.
  • Advised Aspen on a wide range of IT procurement needs including multi-million IT procurement and seven figure savings in software licence matters.
  • Advised longstanding client Isle of Man Enterprises Plc and its grocery retail business on its ongoing digital transformation programme integrating a wide range of fintech products and services throughout the business, to overhaul legacy systems with new innovative tech and fintech solutions.

Dentons

Dentons acts for banks, non-traditional lenders and fintech businesses operating in the UK, advising on high-value payments and electronic money, crypto, digital banking and IT outsourcing transactions. Practice head Jonathan Garforth has expertise in the emerging and fertile regulatory landscapes of open banking, digital payments, crypto and buy now pay later products. Alison Bryce jointly leads the practice from the Glasgow office and has a particular emphasis on software development agreements as well as escrow and hosted service arrangements. Tristan Jonckheer and Sarah Lima both focus on payment services within fintech. Martin Fanning is another important name to note.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Garforth; Alison Bryce

Other key lawyers:

Martin Fanning; Tristan Jonckheer; Sarah Lima

Testimonials

‘The team has broad capabilities in fintech and an enviable client list. Dentons has exceptional expertise in financial regulation and specifically payments, but importantly more broadly in banking technology.’

‘Tristan Jonckheer is highly responsive, intelligent and pragmatic. He is the definition of a trusted adviser.’

Key clients

PayPal

TreviPay

Ripple Labs

John Lewis Partnership

M&S

ING Bank

SMBC Bank International

Santander London Branch

Work highlights

  • Advised John Lewis Partnership on an agreement with BNP Paribas to offer point of sale credit and Buy Now, Pay Later services to customers of John Lewis, Waitrose and Opun, to enable them to purchase products in-store and online.
  • Advised one of the pre-eminent multinational fintech businesses on a strategic acquisition in order to build its cryptoasset business.
  • Advised a leading payment company on a strategic investment to help build its cross-border payments business.

Fox Williams LLP

Fox Williams LLP is recognised for advising disruptive fintech clients, ranging from start-ups to growth companies. Particular areas of focus for the department include alternative finance, business-to-business and business-to-consumer fintech platforms, digital wealth issues, payments and challenger banks. Practice head Jonathan Segal is well-regarded in the P2P lending space, while Chris Finney is a non-contentious financial services regulatory specialist. Peter Finch joined from Hogan Lovells International LLP in September 2021.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Segal

Other key lawyers:

Chris Finney; Peter Finch

Key clients

Nucoro

Allica Bank

yabeo Ventures

Revolut

Carmoola

StudentFinance

Wagestream

ThinCats

Koyo Loans

Tabeo

Balderton Capital

BillFront

ArchOver

Fundsquire

Fronted

Outfund

Go Car Credit

Solidatus

Allianz Strategic Investments Sarl (Allianz X)

Work highlights

  • Advised challenger bank, Allica Bank, on the funding and acquisition of a £600m loan portfolio from AIB.
  • Advised FinTech Tabeo on the structured debt facilities provided to lenders lending via the Tabeo platform to fund dental healthcare as well as advising on new products.
  • Advised consumer finance lender, Koyo Loans, on a $50m debt and equity line from Atalaya Capital.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP supports a wide-range of fintech sector participants including start-ups and challenger businesses, banks and insurers, blockchain platforms, payment platforms and venture capital investors. The full-service team handles M&A, regulatory and technology issues for fintech-based clients. Caroline Rae jointly leads the practice alongside Nick Pantlin, with the latter focusing on digital assets, blockchain and other emerging technologies. Barnaby Hinnigan deals with general corporate and financial services regulatory matters for fintech clients. David Coulling is another key name within the team.

Practice head(s):

Caroline Rae; Nick Pantlin

Other key lawyers:

Barnaby Hinnigan; David Couling

Testimonials

‘Barnaby Hinnigan’s knowledge of insurance and bank regulatory matters complements his corporate M&A/ fintech expertise and this makes him a “go to” adviser for bank and insurance fintech advice.’

Key clients

ClearBank

Tandem Money

FourAid Limited

LendInvest

11:FS

Reefknot Investments

Huozhi

Invesco

The Big Exchange

EML Payments

Optal Limited

AxiCorp

FNZ Group

Comcast Corporation

Block.One

Moneysupermarket

TSB

BNPP

Credit Agricole

UBS

Santander

KodyPay

Work highlights

  • Advised Tandem Money Limited on its acquisition of Oplo and the related fundraising round.
  • Advised EML Payments Limited on its acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Sentenial Limited, a European open banking and account-to-account payments provider.
  • Advised Huozhi, a fintech social enterprise start-up, in relation to its secure aid funding solution, which enables the secure tracking of aid from NGOs and government donors (in the form of goods or donations) to beneficiaries in conflict zones in a way that minimises or eliminates risk of interference.

Mayer Brown International LLP

Mayer Brown International LLP deals with issues in the fintech space relating to banking, IP, M&A, consumer finance, outsourcing, cryptocurrency and blockchain mandates, cloud transactions, and payment, cybersecurity and financial services regulation work. The practice advises global financial institutions as well as newer fintech entrants. Mark Prinsley, who is head of the intellectual property and IT group, supports technology-based businesses at all stages of outsourcing transactions. Co-head Chris Chapman focuses on contentious and non-contentious regulatory issues under UK and EU law, and Oliver Yaros is recommended for handling fintech and digital transformation projects.

Practice head(s):

Mark Prinsley; Chris Chapman

Other key lawyers:

Oliver Yaros

Testimonials

‘The multidisciplinary practice works across the full technology stack – with team members having a deep understanding of the web/cloud computing/AI and Cyber Risk.’

‘Very strong in understanding the deep technology and legislative aspects of the tech – including banking regulation and international standards.’

‘Excellence in subject knowledge is a hallmark of Mayer Brown – the style is engaging, attentive, and very open.’

‘Mark Prinsley is exceptional.’

Key clients

Bank of New York Mellon

HSBC

Nomura

Previse

Pymetrics

The Financial Conduct Authority

Thomson Reuters

Zurich Insurance Company Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Previse Limited, an innovative global fintech services provider, on the negotiation of its strategic alliance agreement with MasterCard under which Previse’s InstantPay platform will be integrated as part of Mastercard’s cross-border services platform.
  • Represented Sun Hung Kai & Co. Limited, a Hong Kong-listed alternative investment financial services institution, in its Series B investment in Sygnum Bank AG, the world’s first regulated digital asset bank.
  • Advised a client on entering into an outsourcing agreement with a payment services provider under which the supplier will manage the payments and notifications on behalf of the financial institution client associated with a financing programme it was providing to one of its customers.

Paul Hastings LLP

Paul Hastings LLP operates closely with its colleagues in the US, supporting fintech-based clients in relation to financial services, regulatory, transactional, data protection, IP and technology issues. The team also handles cryptocurrency, payment, distributed ledger technology (DLT) and compliance matters. Arun Srivastava leads the team, while Nina Moffatt is a key name to note.

Practice head(s):

Arun Srivastava

Other key lawyers:

Nina Moffatt

Testimonials

‘The team has strong legal understanding and practical experience across the regulatory regimes applicable to fintech businesses, including the more recent or novel applications of financial services including crypto.’

‘Nina Moffatt is responsive, provides business friendly legal advice, and is very knowledgeable about her areas of practice.’

‘Arun Srivastava and Nina Moffatt are standout practitioners and are conversant in even the most novel business models and regulatory issues.’

Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP focuses on AI and machine learning issues, collaboration between banks and fintechs, as well as open banking and payment matters. The practice also deals with digital identification matters. Scotland-based Yvonne Dunn heads up the team, advising established financial services companies and fintech start-ups. Head of fintech propositions Luke Scanlon operates from the London office and is recognised for supporting fintech companies within the financial services sector on key AI regulatory issues. Angus McFadyen works on fintech transactions, while Andrew Barber handles technology issues related to payments.

Practice head(s):

Yvonne Dunn

Other key lawyers:

Angus McFadyen; Luke Scanlon; Andrew Barber; Andrew McMillan; Jonathan Kirsop; Ruby Khnom

Testimonials

‘Pinsent Masons’ market knowledge is excellent and their willingness to collaborate with colleagues means that we get a well-rounded approach.’

‘Angus McFadyen is seemingly faultless. He is capable of understanding the most complex of issues and finding real world solutions.’

‘This is a diverse team with a broad spectrum of knowledge always applied in a practical sense. Their technology knowledge is superior and always up to date.’

‘The fintech team at Pinsent Masons has a wonderful ability to understand the type of work product and guidance that is immediately useful to an in-house counsel.’

‘Luke Scanlon is an exceptional partner in terms of client relationship, quality of the work product, ease in handling administrative issues, and willingness to engage in cutting-edge applications of legal and product issue-solving.’

Key clients

Account Technologies / Indigo Michael Limited

Aegon

Aviva

Digital Identity Net (OneID)

Google

ING Bank NV / Yolt Group

Legal & General

NatWest

Open Identity Exchange

Sage

Smarter Financial

Sticklr

Loyalize

Work highlights

  • Advised ING Bank and Yolt Group on its open banking solutions implemented in the UK, the Netherlands and elsewhere across Europe.
  • Advised Natwest Accelerator which has supported over 1,400 businesses at different stages of growth.
  • Advised Sage on a £20m+ acquisition of innovative accounting software.

Taylor Wessing LLP

Taylor Wessing LLP acts for challenger banks, established banks, market disrupters and investors. The practice handles fintech-related investments, M&A, commercial agreements, partnering and joint venture agreements, litigation, regulatory work, competition matters, data protection issues and employment projects. The team is overseen by a senior leadership trio comprising Graham Hann, Angus Miln and Charlotte Hill, with the latter focusing on fintech regulatory issues. Howard Palmer is regarded as another key individual within the team, and senior associate Clare Reynolds advises on the regulatory matters associated with outsourcing and the use of technology in financial services.

Practice head(s):

Graham Hann; Angus Miln; Charlotte Hill

Other key lawyers:

Howard Palmer; Clare Reynolds

Testimonials

‘Great regulatory and market insights.’

Key clients

Nutmeg

Interactive Investor

Kuda

FiServ

Divido

Dawn Capital

Passfort

Trustology

Better.com

Moneybox

Trustology

Curve

Monzo

Thoughtmachine

Work highlights

  • Advised long-standing client Nutmeg Saving and Investment Limited on its sale to JPMorgan Chase, having advised them since inception in 2012 through multiple fundraisings, regulatory, IP, employment and general corporate advice.
  • Advised digital bank Monzo Bank on its latest £500m oversubscribed Series H fundraising round, having supported Monzo on every funding, crowdfunding, and associated regulatory guidance since inception.
  • Advised a leading a US e-commerce platform, on the high-profile global launch of its novel NFT programme including on the regulatory treatment of various different kinds of NFT propositions under the UK regulatory regime as it applies to cryptoassets.

Travers Smith LLP

Travers Smith LLP draws upon the expertise of practitioners across associated disciplines, including the technology, competition, commercial, finance, insolvency and corporate departments. The practice is fronted by Tim Lewis and provides a ‘one-stop shop’ for its client’s needs in the fintech space, which includes start-ups, fintech giants and large financial institutions. Natalie Lewis advises fintech ‘disruptors’ and other clients looking to introduce new fintech products to the market. Dan Reavill has expertise in the technology and data security aspects of payment systems and services. Phil BartramLouisa Chambers and senior consultant Mark Evans are also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Tim Lewis

Other key lawyers:

Natalie Lewis; Dan Reavill; Phil Bartram; Mark Evans; Louisa Chambers

Testimonials

‘The team has a very strong understanding of financial services regulations and adopts a pragmatic approach to its commercial application.’

‘Natalie Lewis is a strong partner who is able to explain technical and complex regulations in a way that can be easily understood and applied.’

‘Travers has great sector experience. The fintech sector is very unique and you need to understand it and understand the actual technology to be able to negotiate with counterparties and Travers is great at that.’

‘Louisa Chambers is stand out on this. Her knowledge is second to none but also her pragmatism means that you get to the crux of issues quickly with a host of solutions.’

Key clients

Euroclear UK & International Limited

Pay.UK Limited

Fnality International Limited

Paymentsense

RTGS.global Limited

CLS Bank International

Work highlights

  • Advised on the implementation for Euroclear UK & International Limited of a new payments mechanism to support CREST settlement in Euros.
  • Continued to act as project counsel to Pay.UK on the ongoing development of a “next generation” cutting-edge overlay service called Request to Pay (RtP).
  • Advised RTGS.global Limited on the implementation of an interbank payments system to allow instant cross-border payments.

Burges Salmon LLP

Burges Salmon LLP handles the full spectrum of fintech work, including financial services regulation, blockchain and cryptocurrency issues, cybersecurity work, payments matters, technology transactions and commercial arrangements. Martin Cook leads the Bristol-based practice, advising fintech clients across transactional and regulatory issues. Mark Shepherd focuses on M&A transactions in the sector. Associate Brandon Wong is another key member of the team.

Practice head(s):

Martin Cook

Other key lawyers:

Mark Shepherd; Brandon Wong

Testimonials

‘The fintech team at Burges Salmon are extremely outward facing and customer centric, available to support enquiries of all types and levels.’

‘Martin Cook is an excellent lawyer and fintech specialist. He is able to provide a comprehensive service to any potential fintech investors seeking to do business in the UK.’

Key clients

Think Money Limited

Currency Global

Embark Group

Faster Payments

Recognise Financial Services

Kreos Capital Partners

Bolt Bikes London Limited

Marlborough Group

Praemium

Parmenion

St James’s Place Wealth Management

Give 360 Support

Mistho

Econans

Swapmoney

Gowling WLG

Gowling WLG advises on investments, intellectual property matters, commercial contacts, regulatory issues and platform structuring mandates. The multidisciplinary practice benefits from a dedicated financial services regulatory team, which has expertise in cryptoassets regulation, consumer credit, payment services and the use of AI in financial services. David Brennan co-heads the team alongside Ian Mason, with the latter advising on the regulatory aspects of fintech, including ICOs, cryptocurrencies and blockchain developments. Kristian Rogers is another key team member.

Practice head(s):

David Brennan; Ian Mason

Other key lawyers:

Kristian Rogers; Sushil Kuner

Key clients

Molten Ventures plc

Forward Partners Group Plc

Reorg Research, Inc.

Klarna Bank AB

Work highlights

  • Advised Molten Ventures plc on its £111m fundraising by way of a placing of new shares.
  • Provided Klarna with regular regulatory advice on the UK Consumer credit regime, the FCA’s financial promotion rules, product governance issues and payment services.
  • Advised Forward Partners Group plc, the London-based venture capital group, on its oversubscribed fundraise and admission to AIM.

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe (UK) LLP

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe (UK) LLP has expertise in regulatory advice, regulated transactions as well as cryptocurrencies, payments, blockchains and ICO issues. The UK branch works in tandem with its US counterparts, with clients including emerging fintech payment service providers, traditional financial institutions, fintech investors and technology companies developing payment platforms. Jacqui Hatfield jointly leads the practice alongside Chris Grew, with the former focusing on fintech platforms and cutting-edge technologies, including DeFi platforms, in the financial services space. Shawn Atkinson, Jamie Moore and Ylan Steiner are further key team members.

Practice head(s):

Jacqui Hatfield; Chris Grew

Other key lawyers:

Shawn Atkinson; Ylan Steiner; Jamie Moore

Testimonials

‘Excellent experience and knowledge of fundraising, alongside strong credibility with new and existing investors.’

‘Jamie Moore has lots of experience and can be relied upon to know what is “market”.’

Key clients

ABN AMRO Digital Impact Ventures

Automata (AKT.io)

Cathay Capital Private Equity

Chime, Inc

Currency Cloud Group Limited

Fidel Limited

Fintech Collectiv

Foundation Capital

Generation Home

Global 81 Limited

Global Processing Services (UK) Limited

Griffin Financial Technology Limited

Kinnevik

Leanpay Ltd

Libertus Capital

Microsoft Corporation

MoneyFarm

OakNorth Bank Limited

PayPal Holdings, Inc

Quona Capital Management Limited

Revolut

Scalapay Ltd

Shopify

TransferGo

Vostok Emerging Finance Ltd.

WealthKernel Limited

Wirex

Ziglu Ltd

Work highlights

  • Advised Currencycloud, a London-based global platform that enables banks and fintechs to provide innovative foreign exchange solutions for cross-border payments, on its sale to Visa for £700m.
  • Advised ABN AMRO Bank, N.V., an Amsterdam-based Venture Capital company, on its $2.1bn sale of Tink, a Sweden-based developer of an open banking platform intended to offer data-driven financial services, to Visa.
  • Advised Global Processing Services, a global payment technology platform, on its acquisition by Advent International and Viking Global Investors, which will co-control the company.

White & Case LLP

White & Case LLP covers a myriad of fintech issues spanning M&A, technology transactions, financial institution regulatory and advisory matters, data management, privacy and cybersecurity work, IP issues, financings and IPOs. The cross-practice team is instructed by global financial institutions, investors and payment companies. Global head Guy Potel oversees the practice alongside UK lead Jonathan Rogers, who has expertise in payments, regulated projects and fintech-based M&A. Financial crime lawyer Jonah Anderson acts for fintech companies on law enforcement issues and internal investigations, as well as compliance work.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Rogers; Guy Potel

Other key lawyers:

Jonah Anderson

Key clients

Tink

Amazon

Meta

Klarna

Pollinate

Bank of America

Softbank

SAMA

Paysafe

Global Fintech Investments Holding

Work highlights

  • Advised Tink on its sale to Visa for €1.7bn.
  • Advised a G20 central bank on the recasting of its payment services/systems and open banking legislative framework.
  • Advised Klarna on regulatory matters across Europe.

Browne Jacobson LLP

Browne Jacobson LLP handles funding rounds for fintech clients, while also leveraging expertise in relation to insurtech issues and payment services work. Declan Cushley leads the team alongside Jon Snade, who focuses on corporate matters within the fintech space. Beyond partner level, associates David Henderson and Jeniz White are vital team members.

Practice head(s):

Jon Snade; Declan Cushley

Other key lawyers:

David Henderson; Jeniz White

Testimonials

‘Excellent partner for fintech startups.’

‘Jeniz White was a particularly useful asset to the legal team.’

‘Browne Jacobson combines expertise in fintech and financial services regulation with a flexible and approachable service offering for high growth early stage companies.’

‘We were particularly impressed with David Henderson, whose deep knowledge in financial services regulation and genuine passion for all things fintech helped us overcome various regulatory obstacles as we prepared the business for FCA authorisation.’

‘Jon Snade is one of the leading lawyers in the City for VC fundraising transactions in the fintech space, and there couldn’t be a better lawyer to help our business build long-lasting relationships with the wider venture ecosystem.’

‘I really haven’t met a team that is this fintech-focused and committed to early stage companies in the London scene.’

Key clients

Laka

Anansi Technology

Dark Horse Technologies (T/A Omega Crop)

Enro Holdings (T/A Superscript)

Digital Fineprint

Hiscox Syndicates

Equals Group plc

Lucra

Work highlights

  • Advised insurtech pioneer Laka on its $12m series A funding round led by Autotech Ventures, Ponooc and ABN Amro Ventures.
  • Advised Anansi Technology on its £1.5m investment round led by Octopus Ventures.
  • Advised Digital Fineprint on its sale to hub Insure.

Cooley (UK) LLP

Cooley (UK) LLP handles the full gamut of issues that arise within the fintech sector, with a specific focus on private equity and venture capital investments. The practice, fronted by Stephen Rosen, is also recommend for handling data protection and cybersecurity issues for fintech clients. Other key names within the team include Guadalupe Sampedro, Chris Coulter and Ryan Naftulin.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Rosen

Other key lawyers:

Guadalupe Sampedro; Chris Coulter; Ryan Naftulin; Yulia Makarova; Aaron Archer

Testimonials

‘Super experienced and knowledgeable, extremely well connected in the market, business focused, and super flexible to organise support.’

‘Yulia Makarova in particular had very in-depth regulatory and fintech knowledge that helped shape our corporate strategy.’

‘Not only does Yulia Makarova provide informed, nuanced, and practical advice, but she does so with little notice on tight timelines.’

Key clients

Accel

Dapple

eBay Inc

Elliptic

Freetrade io

General Catalyst and Accel

iProov Limited

Recharge Inc.

QED Investors

Work highlights

  • Advised eBay on a wide range of data protection and ecommerce-related matters related to its payments business globally (EU, UK, US, Australia).
  • Represented General Catalyst and Accel in its investments on the Series H in Monzo.
  • Advised Recharge, Inc. in all aspects of cybersecurity, data protection, privacy and e-commerce.

Mills & Reeve LLP

Mills & Reeve LLP handles technology transactions and data protection issues as well as crypto-exchange, crypto-coin and blockchain matters. Co-heads Jagvinder Singh Kang and Kevin Calder jointly oversee the team, with the latter recommended for providing commercial and IT advice to fintech businesses and organisations.

Practice head(s):

Jagvinder Singh Kang; Kevin Calder

Other key lawyers:

Stephen Hamilton; Thilo Schneider

Key clients

Paypoint plc

Premia Solutions Limited

Brady plc

Receipt Bank

Skillcast Group plc

Bluestone

Validus IVC

Eckoh plc

Randall & Quilter Investment Holdings

Work highlights

  • Advised a private equity backed blockchain crypto-exchange and currency provider on its global fintech arrangements, including UK GDPR requirements.
  • Provided fintech advice relating to European Banking Authority Guidelines, Financial Conduct Authority FG16/5 requirements, and Financial Conduct Authority SYSC 8 requirements to a multi-billion pound financial organisation, on its multi-million pound mission critical arrangements with a NASDAQ listed company.

Reed Smith LLP

Reed Smith LLP supports fintech sector clients on structured finance and corporate transactions, as well as issues relating to regulatory compliance, licensing applications, outsourcings and data privacy work. Claude Brown, Brett Hillis and Howard Womersley-Smith lead the team.

Practice head(s):

Claude Brown; Brett Hillis; Howard Womersley-Smith

Testimonials

‘Reed Smith are highly approachable and grasp the problem rapidly (and then provide adequate and fast solutions). Claude Brown is a very good example of these principles.’

‘Highly connected team with fast and accurate analysis.’

Squire Patton Boggs

Squire Patton Boggs acts for financial service companies, established fintechs and emerging fintech start-ups on corporate transactions and regulatory issues. The practice also acts for global banks on complex transactions. Robert Bray leads the team, advising fintech clients on all aspects of corporate work, including private equity and venture capital issues, M&A and joint ventures.

Practice head(s):

Robert Bray

Other key lawyers:

Julian Ciecierski-Burns; Miriam Lampert

Testimonials

‘Team is very responsive, super professional and knowledgeable and practical and provides advice that makes business sense.’

‘Miriam Lampert is practical, quick to respond and provides good business advice.’

‘The team is extremely cohesive, they know the status of the matter at any point in time and are personable, accommodating and reasonable.’

Key clients

Broadridge Financial Solutions

Currency Cloud

TP ICAP Plc

Contis Group

Neptune Networks

Euronet Worldwide, INC

TransUnion

Trussle

Tide

CPP Group PLC

Laybuy Holdings (UK) Limited

Euronet Worldwide Inc (and YourCash)

Equiniti Group

New Day

Rebel

Work highlights

  • Advised Broadridge which agreed to acquire Itiviti Holding AB, a leading provider of trading and connectivity technology to the capital markets industry, in an all-cash transaction valued at €2.1bn from Nordic Capital.
  • Worked on a merger between Canbras Global Inc. and Geru Holding Limited and subsequent equity funding round.
  • Advised a key fintech client on several mandates including (i) commercial and regulatory advice and (ii) employee incentive/growth share structuring and associated tax advice.

Wiggin LLP

Wiggin LLP advises clients in the fintech space on financings, M&A, joint ventures, the development of new financial services technologies, and IP issues. The practice is also recognised for handling data protection and cybersecurity breaches. Jason Fisher fronts the team, while Calum Smyth is another name to note. David Naylor departed for Squire Patton Boggs in April 2022.

Practice head(s):

Jason Fisher

Other key lawyers:

Calum Smyth

Key clients

Worldpay

Western Union

Tessian

iPipeline

SAGE Group plc

Xplor