Characterised by its ‘knowledge, availabilty and professionalism’, Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez, S.C. is undoubtedly a key player in the Mexican market. Its ‘pro-business’ finance practice is composed of six partners, two counsels and 33 associates, and is adept at handling the range of banking and finance matters, including structured and DIP financings, cross-border and local single bank and syndicated loans, acquisition finance, and both secured and unsecured financings. Its stellar client roster is comprised of high-profile local and international banks, funds, insurance companies and non-bank financial institutions, which it advises both as lenders and borrowers. Senior partner Carlo Aiza, who has a strong track record in finance and asset securitization transactions, heads up the practice. The ‘well-coordinated’ and ‘highly technical’ team of partners is further made up of: Giovanni Ramírez Garrido, whose practice has an emphasis on acquisition and structured finance, as well as asset-backed and real estate financing; and the ‘excellent’ Pedro Velasco, who assists domestic and foreign financial institutions and corporate borrowers (from across a range of industries) with secured and unsecured financings; along with Rodrigo Castelazo (capital markets and structured finance transactions); Alejandro Isaac (commercial, acquisition, real estate financings, infrastructure and project financings); and Emilio Aarún, a partner since January 2022 (banking, finance, bankruptcy and restructuring transactions). Eduardo Flores left the firm in July 2022.
Banking and finance in Mexico
Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez, S.C.
Practice head(s):
Carlos Aiza
Testimonials
‘Creel’s team is distinguished by its dedication, efficiency, proactivity, prompt responses and good customer service.’
‘Pedro Velasco provides extraordinary customer service, is always available, looks for innovative solutions and knows the field in great detail.’
‘It is a competitive team with great analytical capacity.’
‘Excellent lawyers with high ethical standards who are always willing to solve problems.’
‘Creel lawyers stand out for the knowledge, availability and professionalism with which they handle themselves.’
‘Creel is the best law firm in Mexico: they are excellent professionals, meticulous and efficient, and they always find a good strategy.’
‘Pedro Velasco and Alejandro Isaac are excellent. Their availability combined with their knowledge results in an unmatched service.’
‘Pedro Velasco, Emilio Aarún and Alejandro Isaac always look after the interests of their client.’
Key clients
Apollo Global Management
Alpha Latam Management
Grupo Financiero Banorte
Grupo Alójica
FIBRA Macquarie México
Banco Santander México
JPMorgan Chase Bank
CarVal Investors
PGIM
HSBC
Work highlights
- Assisted Apollo Management Holdings with the repayment and capitalisation of its DIP Loan into an equity interest in Grupo Aeromexico.
- Advised Fibra Macquarie Mexico on the closing of its $428m unsecured syndicated credit facility.
- Assisted Klar, as borrower, in relation to a $54m credit facility granted by Architect Capital Asset.
Galicia Abogados S.C.
Local and international lender and borrower clients entrust the ‘leading’ practice at Galicia Abogados S.C. with a host of banking and finance-related matters, including cross-border syndicated transactions, acquisition finance, sub-sovereign financing, real estate financings and regulatory work. The group operates from offices in both Mexico City and Monterrey, and counsels big-name banks and lenders, including Barclays, Bank of America and JP Morgan; in addition, corporations from industries such as food & beverages, energy, transportation and real estate regularly feature on its client roster. Team members are lauded for their ability to ‘adapt to the needs of the client’, and for their ‘outstanding communication and knowledge’ of the sphere. An experienced trio co-lead the practice: Arturo Perdomo combines great experience in traditional transactional and regulatory work with fintech expertise; Guillermo Pérez Santiago (‘business oriented, proactive and up to date’), specialises in finance and capital markets; and insurance practice head Humberto Pérez Rocha. In the Monterrey office, Rosemarie McLaren specialises in local and cross-border, bilateral and syndicated loans; while Rodrigo Rivera deals with corporate, real estate and project financing. Senior associate Lili Abascal handles public financing matters.
Practice head(s):
Arturo Perdomo; Guillermo Pérez Santiago; Humberto Perez Rocha
Testimonials
‘The attention we have received from the entire team has been exceptional. They stand out for their communication, monitoring of issues and knowledge.’
‘Arturo Perdomo is always striving for improvement.’
‘Galicia provides an impeccable service, and is strong in not only banking and finance but capital markets, corporate and M&A, antitrust and others, which gives it an edge over a boutique firm.’
‘Guillermo Pérez Santiago is business-oriented, proactive and up to date.’
‘The lawyers adapt perfectly to the client’s requirements on costs and timescales.’
Key clients
Citibanamex/Citigroup
BBVA
HSBC
Bank of America
Credit Suisse
Santander
JP Morgan
UBS
Sabadell
IFC
IDB
Morgan Stanley
Scotiabank
Mizuho
Bancomext
Banobras
SMBC
MUFG (Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi)
Barclays
BNP Paribas
Credit Agricole
Nacional Financiera
Goldman Sachs
Blackrock
Ficade, SOFOM (Promecap)
Coppel
CEMEX
Arca Continental
Grupo Bimbo
Nemak
ALSEA
GRUMA
Bank of Nova Scotia
Bank of America Mexico
Work highlights
- Assisted a consortium of banks with a €500m syndicated loan agreement.
- Assisted a consortium of banks, as lenders, with a $1.54bn senior unsecured revolving credit facility ((granted to the CFE)).
- Assisted Victory Park Capital Advisors, as lenders, with a $100m senior secured loan.
Greenberg Traurig, S.C.
Greenberg Traurig, S.C. continues to operate in the upper tier of the market, offering a ‘top-quality service’ to domestic and international clients in transactions across a diverse range of sectors, notaby finance and construction. The firm advises a significant number of major Mexican banks and infrastructure companies, with a good mix of both lender and borrower representations in the private and public sectors, in addition to municipal governments in Mexico. Several of the department’s lawyers are dual-qualified in Mexico and the United States, making it well placed to advise on international transactions. José Raz Guzmán co-leads the team, working with issuers, underwriters and investors on public and private equity offerings – he is highlighted as having an ‘outstanding knowledge of the market’; at his side, Juan Manuel González specialises in project finance transactions. Completing the leadership trio, Rodrigo Orozco Waters advises on foreign investment transactions in the infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, financial, and commercial sectors. Miguel Moisés represents lenders and borrowers in structured financings, bilateral and syndicated loans, as well as handling the financing of industrial, commercial and residential real estate projects; José Antonio Butrón Quintero and of counsel Gabriela Palomino are additional names to note. Senior associates Ana Acosta and ‘excellent’ David Argueta support on financing transactions and capital markets' matters.
Practice head(s):
Rodrigo Orozco Waters; Miguel Moisés; José Raz-Guzmán
Testimonials
‘Rodrigo Orozco Waters is always available and keen to help.’
‘They are very reliable and have provided quality service at all times.’
‘The team members stand out for their technical skill and outstanding market knowledge, especially José Raz Guzmán and David Argueta. David is an excellent lawyer; he always seeks solutions and avoids conflicts during negotiations.’
‘The team has highly specialized knowledge in the banking and financing area and is well organised.’
‘Rodrigo Orozco is an excellent negotiator and a highly technical lawyer who takes care of the interests of his clients at all times.’
Key clients
Banco Azteca
Banco Nacional del Comercio Exterior (Bancomext)
Banco Santander
Banobras
BBVA
Betterware México
Black Diamond Capital Management
Concesionaria de Autopistas del Sureste (CAS)
Fibra EXI
Grupo Financiero Banorte
Grupo Financiero Scotiabank Inverlat
HSBC México
Mexico Infrastructure Partners
Municipality of Hermosillo, Sonora
Planigrupo Latam
Union Investment Real Estate
Walton Street Capital
Work highlights
- Represented Banco Inbursa in the refininacing of a loan granted in connection to two prisons owned by the client.
- Advised Betterware, as borrower, on a $240m credit facility granted by a consortium of banks.
- Advised a consortium of banks on the amendment and restatement of an existing syndicated credit facility granted to Grupo Traxión.
Mijares, Angoitia, Cortés y Fuentes S.C.
The practice at Mijares, Angoitia, Cortés y Fuentes S.C. is a prominent player in the Mexican banking and finance sphere, and ‘solves complex problems quickly and simply’, according to clients. It offers counsel on the full range of domestic and international financial transactions, with particular emphasis on syndicated loans and project, leveraged, asset and real estate finance. Its expertise also encompasses regulatory advice and fintech matters, and the team of ‘true experts’ regularly represents corporations from the infrastructure and real estate sectors, in addition to banks and non-bank financial entities. A team of nine partners front the group: Ricardo Maldonado handles infrastructure projects and represents issuers in public and private debt and equity offerings; and Patricio Trad and Manuel Echave deal with banking, corporate finance and capital markets' matters. Francisco Ibáñez (banking and finance, M&A, capital markets); Martín Sánchez (M&A, corporate finance, capital markets); Ignacio Armida (infrastructure financing and M&A); Patrick Meshoulam (equity, debt and structured securities offerings, financings); and Carlos Jiménez Cantú (public and private, debt and capital offerings; syndicated loans and project finance); along with founding partner Pablo Mijares, complete the leadership team. Former partner Pilar Mata retired in April 2022.
Practice head(s):
Pablo Mijares; Ricardo Maldonado; Patricio Trad; Manuel Echave; Martín Sánchez; Francisco Ibáñez; Ignacio Armida; Patrick Meshoulam; Carlos Jiménez
Testimonials
‘The pragmatism with which they approach situations is commendable.’
‘They are true experts, and solve complex issues quickly and easily.’
‘They provide excellent customer service, respond quickly and offer deep analysis.’
‘Their work style is simple and accessible.’
Key clients
Mendel
Clara
Banco Mercantil del Norte (Banorte)
SoftBank
Vanrenta
CitiBanamex
HSBC México
BBVA
Banco Santander México
US International Development Finance Corporation
Banco del Bajío
Aleatica
IEnova (Infraestructura Energética Nova
Servicios Corporativos Javer
Work highlights
- Advised tech startup Clara on the negotiation and execution of a $50m credit agreement.
- Advised Vanrenta on the negotiation and execution of a MXN $300m loan agreement.
- Advised SoftBank Latin American Fund on its investment in ‘unicorn’, Nowports.
Nader, Hayaux y Goebel, SC
Nader, Hayaux y Goebel, SC houses a strong banking and finance practice that is counsel of choice for a host of global banks, financial institutions and corporate clients, among them HSBC, BBVA, Barclays, Scotiabank and Prudential. In addition, public bodies Banobras and Pemex seek out the team for its ‘solid technical knowledge’. The group advises on the gamut of banking and finance matters, including structured finance and securitisation deals, corporate lending, real estate finance and project financing. Clients are impressed with the team’s ability to ‘close deals in record time and to an extraordinarily high standard’, as well as its ‘culture and values’. Michell Nader, a market leader in Mexican banking and finance law, steers the practice. Julián Garza has strong background is in banking law and regulatory matters; Hans Goebel’s practice takes in complex structured and secured finance deals, security issuances and real estate finance; Javier Arreola focuses on project finance and asset-based financing matters; Eduardo Villanueva -who specialises in real estate finance- is praised for his negotiating skills; London-office head Yves Hayaux-du-Tilly undertakes with banking and banking regulatory matters as part of his broader insurance practice. Federico Vergara, of counsel since March 2022, supports the partners on cross-border structured financings, asset-based lending and corporate finance work. Since publication, the team has been strengthened with the return of Jenny Ferrón - after three years at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP's New York office - as a partner (effective as of May 2024).
Testimonials
‘We received a quality service. Eduardo Villanueva and the rest of the team are highly trained professionals with whom we have generated a bond of trust. Eduardo is also present at every stage of the operation, something that unfortunately does not always happen with other firms.’
‘They are responsible lawyers with excellent technical knowledge. We have constant communication that allows us to formalize operations quickly and clearly, both for the benefit of our clients and for us.’
‘The team always looks for the best legal solutions, and closes transactions in record time and to an extraordinarily high standard.’
‘Great knowledge of Mexican legal issues.’
Key clients
Mizuho Bank
Banco Sabadell
HSBC México
Credijusto
Banco Ve Por Más, Institución de Banca Múltiple
Credit Suisse
Prudential
Barclays
BBVA México
Bancomext
Scotiabank
Rabobank
Grupo BAL
CIBanco
Work highlights
- Advised Vinci Airports on the acquisition financing of a significant stake of OMA, a Mexican public company that holds 13 airport concessions in Mexico.
- Advised Scotiabank Inverlat, as lender, on a $49.3m senior secured credit facility.
- Advised Banco Ve Por Más and a syndicate of banks on a MXN $770m secured loan agreement for the construction of a skyscraper in Mérida.
Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C.
With a practice group 17-partners strong, Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau, S.C. advises an impressive range of local and international banks and underwriters, issuers, private equity firms and multilaterals on all types of financing and collateral agreements. Clients value its ‘great experience in complex and sophisticated transactions’, and skill in ‘banking, finance and regulatory work in all their expressions’. An experienced pair leads the group with both garnering praise for being highly involved in cases: Jean Paul Farah Chajín, who advises on financings and refinancings; and Pablo Perezalonso Eguía, who works on international banking and securities transactions, and regulatory matters. Luis A Nicolau Gutiérrez and Gabriel del Valle Mendiola assist with banking, finance, capital markets and restructuring work; and Gabriel Robles advises financial institutions, public companies and private equity funds, with a special focus on capital markets. Senior associate Daniela Solis specialises in energy and infrastructure development and project finance, and associate Salvador Torres provides key support.
Practice head(s):
Jean Paul Farah Chajín; Pablo Perezalonso Eguía
Testimonials
‘The firm has an excellent practice in banking, regulatory and financial law in all their expressions. They are well versed in the industry, the products and the needs of their customers, and have extensive experience in complex and sophisticated transactions.’
‘The service and attention of the partners is very good; they are involved in the transactions and keep the costs within the agreed limits. They do good risk analyses and help make transactions happen.’
‘The banking and finance team at Ritch, Mueller y Nicolau is, without a doubt, one of the best in the market. Its partners are actively involved and highly knowledgeable.’
Key clients
Corporación Andina de Fomento
BBVA México
Grupo Salud Auna México ENFOCA
Scotiabank Inverlat
Banco Nacional de México
Banco del Bajío
Banco Mercantil del Norte
Corporación Inmobiliaria Vesta
Citibanamex
Citibank
The Bank of Nova Scotia
Banco Nacional de Obras y Servicios Públicos
SMBC
Banco Sabadell
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
Credit Suisse (Cayman Islands branch)
JP Morgan
Bank of America Mexico
Barclays Bank
Deutsche Bank
Walton Street Capital
Credit Suisse
Work highlights
- Represented a consortium of banks, as lead arrangers and joint bookrunners, in a MXN$20.5bn term loan agreement to América Móvil and Torres Latinoamérica.
- Advised a consortium of banks, as lenders, on a syndicated senior loan agreement for the modernisation of Mexico City’s Metro Line 1.
- Represented Banamex in a repurchase agreement with Pemex.
González Calvillo
The banking and finance practice at Gonzalez Calvillo excels at commercial lending, acquisition financing, project finance and regulatory banking work, regularly advising fintechs, domestic and international banks, and investment funds. Recent work highlights include advising Grupo Crédito Maestro on a $65m financing granted by Banorte; and assisting Banco Bradesco with the purchase of shares issued by Ictineo Plataforma, a popular financing entity. The team is led by four partners: José Victor Torres Gómez has vast experience as lead counsel in complex cross-border transactions; Bernardo Reyes Retana K specialises in both private and public offerings of securities, advising issuers, investors, underwriters, and credit agencies; José Ignacio Rivero Andere is experienced at working with non-bank financial institutions; and Daniel Guaida advises on fintech and regulatory technology matters. Senior associate Jacinto Avalos provides key support. Former partners Juan Manuel Sancho Rodrigo and Jaime Cortés left the firm in December 2021 and January 2022 respectively. Since publication, both Torres Gómez and Guaida have left the firm (effective April 2024), subsequent to which the firm has announced an agreement to merge into Spain's Pérez-Llorca.
Practice head(s):
José Ignacio Rivero Andere; Bernardo Reyes Retana Krieger; Daniel Guaida
Testimonials
‘Excellent attention and follow-up on matters.’
‘Very close to their customers. José Ignacio Rivero is outstanding.’
‘Partner Jose Igancio Rivero and associate Jacinto Avalos Capin are very knowledgeable about the financial industry in Mexico. They provide prompt and well thought out replies.’
Key clients
Administradora de Activos Financieros
Banca Nazionale del Lavoro
Banco Bradesco
Banco General
Banco Industrial
Citibank and UMB Bank
Fasanara Capital
Grupo Empresarial Maestro (Grupo Crédito Maestro)
KIO Networks
Samsung C&T
Sculptor Capital Management
Tecnologías Rappi
Work highlights
- Advised Rappi Mexico on the funding of the credit operations of Tarjetas del Futuro.
- Advised the shareholders of KIO Network on the sale of its assets to global infrastructure fund I-squared Capital.
- Advised Italian bank Banca Nazionale del Lavoro in a €437m syndicated financing to FILA.
Jones Day
The ‘highly skilled’ team at the Mexico office at multinational US firm Jones Day is praised for offering ‘the same high quality service as other leading firms’ with ‘an excellent professional manner to match’. The practice handles all commercial banking matters, representing both lenders and borrowers, and advises on asset-based lending and cross-border investments; its client list includes notable local and international banks. The team is co-led by Manuel Romano, who is experienced in complex leveraged financing transactions and the financing of infrastructure and real estate projects; and Alberto De La Parra, who handles project finance, syndicated loans, secured financings and refinancing transactions, and is identified as standing out for his ‘extensive knowledge of the sector’. Jose Manuel Carrillo and Diego Noriega are the names to note at associate level.
Practice head(s):
Manuel Romano; Alberto de la Parra
Testimonials
‘Jones Day offers the same high quality service as other leading firms but, unlike other firms, has an excellent professional manner to match.’
‘Arturo de la Parra stands out from the competition for his extensive knowledge of the sector.’
‘Jones Day attorneys are highly trained and eager to help.’
‘Solid preparation, open to hear different points of view.’
Key clients
Banco Nacional de Comercio Exterior
Grupo Gigante
Banco Nacional de Obras y Servicios Públicos
Banco Santander México (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
Nacional Financiera
Vitol Electricidad de Mexico
Beel Infraestructura
Invex Infraestructura 4
Banco Sabadell (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
Wells Fargo
Grupo Financiero Value
Marelli Holdings
Work highlights
- Advised Marelli Holdings on the refinancing of banking debt in a court-led restructuring process.
- Advised Banco Nacional de Comercio Exterior on the structuring, documentation and implementation of a $6.247m loan to be granted to Optimum Turbine Manufacture.
Santamarina y Steta
Santamarina y Steta excels at representing development financing institutions, including local banks, international and multilateral institutions, as both lenders and borrowers; it also has expertise in financial workouts. Its active Monterrey office is regularly instructed by high-profile borrower clients in the northeast of the country and complements the ‘responsive’ team led by Juan Carlos Machorro from Mexico City; he has extensive experience in investment and manufacturing projects. Sergio Chagoya represents lenders, sponsors and borrowers in a range of financial transactions including public offerings, securitisations and privatisations; ‘exceptional lawyer’ Ricardo Orea advises banks and other financiers on energy, transport and asset-backed financing transactions; and Diego Ostos provides counsel on debt issuances and cross-border financial transactions. Of counsel Margarita Casarin - who works on syndicated and structured finance, project finance and infrastructure projects - is an additional name to note.
Practice head(s):
Juan Carlos Machorro
Testimonials
‘The firm has the capacity and the necessary experts to advise its clients on all legal aspects related to large operations, as well as to offer timely and complete solutions to the challenges that arise in their negotiation.’
‘Sergio Chayoga handles top priority transactions with extraordinary competence; he is the person to choose to close difficult negotiations.’
‘They stand out in the market for the speed and quality of service. The team is solid in terms of knowledge and consolidated in terms of work dynamics. Ricardo Orea is an exceptional lawyer, committed to their work and always available to help their clients.’
‘Very responsive, always there for us.’
‘Ricardo Orea takes the initiative by informing us about new developments without our having to ask him to do so.’
Key clients
AT Engine México
Banco Mercantil del Norte (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
Banco Santander (Spain)
Cadari (Cadari)
Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft (DEG)
Grupo Industrial Saltillo
Multibank Panama
Savage Enterprises Intermediate / Savage Enterprises (and subsidiaries)
Sistemas Eléctricos Metropolitanos
Atlantica Yield
Work highlights
- Represented ATEM in the negotiation, drafting and execution of a VAT credit agreement with a consortium of financial institutions.
- Assisted Banorte with obtaining a MXN$1bn facility agreement.
- Advised Banco Santander on the restructuring of a loan originally granted to Trituradora y Procesadora de Materiales Santa Anita (as borrower) and Elementia (as guarantor).
White & Case S.C.
As well as representing leading domestic and global financial institutions and corporations as both lenders and borrowers in loan transactions and infrastructure financings, the practice group at White & Case S.C. provides regulatory banking counsel. The team is highlighted as being ‘a step ahead of their counterparts’ and garners praise for its ‘knowledge, skill, teamwork and communication’. Juan Antonio Martín singlehandedly leads the practice, and specialises in syndicated loans and asset-backed financings. Maria Teresa Fernández-Labardini provides strategic and legal counsel on a broad range of finance matters, including requests for authorisations and loan restructurings; advising primarily on financial regulatory matters, Andrés Mosqueira has a particular focus on asset management, pension funds and securities regulatory matters; Carlos Mainero also handles financial regulatory matters, along with bank and debt finance. The practice was strengthened by the arrival of partners Eduardo Flores Herrera and Narciso Campos in July and August 2023, respectively; the latter garners praise for his ‘skillful handling and closing of deals’. Fernando Vázquez-Chelius and Rebeca García López were promoted to the partnership in January 2023; and former partner Manuel Groenewold left the firm in December 2022.
Practice head(s):
Juan Antonio Martín
Testimonials
‘Without a doubt, it is our preferred firm for this practice area. The lawyers have a very broad vision of the issues which allows them to understand the business in detail; they offer value for money.’
‘Juan Antonio Martín is undoubtedly one of the best lawyers in this practice, and is widely recognised in the market. His advice is always timely and specific. Rebeca García López and Carlos Mainero are two younger partners who provide exceptional service in terms of quality and delivery times.’
‘Their knowledge, skill, teamwork and communication made working with the firm easy and comfortable.’
‘They are one step ahead of their counterparts. Narciso Campos skillfully handled and closed the deal.’
‘It is a compact but very efficient team.’
‘Carlos Mainero is an efficient lawyer with excellent technical skill.’
‘White and Case has shown that they have an excellent network with the relevant contacts with the regulators.’
‘Juan Antonio Martin is an experienced individual with an excellent network. Carlos Mainero is always available to help and provides excellent support. We built an excellent professional relationship.’
Key clients
Braskem Idesa
Citibanamex – GM Financial
Transcanada
Bank of Nova Scotia
Bineo
Nubank
Morgan Stanley
JP Morgan Mexico
Sempra – IEnova
Nelo
Kavak
Xepelin
7 Bridges
Pay Joy
Architect Capital – Klar
Deutsche Bank
Work highlights
- Advised 7 Bridges Capital Partners on the acquisition and acquisition financing of a portfolio of 40 industrial properties located in northern Mexico.
- Advised TC Energy on a $2.6bn senior term and revolving facility to its Mexican subsidiary TC Energy de México.
- Assisted US-based oil-and-gas company Infraestructura Marina del Golfo (IMG) with obtaining a $1.56bn senior unsecured term loan financing for its natural gas pipeline Sur de Texas-Tuxpan.
Chávez Vargas Minutti Abogados
The compact team at Chávez Vargas Minutti Abogados takes care of the structuring of all types of financing arrangements, including the private securitisation of assets and the refinancing of liabilities. It acts on behalf of credit agencies, private companies and financial institutions as both borrowers and lenders. Practice co-head José Antonio Chávez has notable experience advising states and municipalities on sub-sovereign financings, as well as handling both domestic and cross-border securitisations backed by future assets or cash flows; alongside him, Alejandro Carreño primarily advises financial institutions and specialises in real estate finance and the planning of corporate structures. Senior associate Cynthia Ibarra negotiates financings and the structuring of guarantees. Associate Diego Medina offers key support on syndicated loans and structured credit transactions.
Practice head(s):
José Antonio Chávez; Alejandro Carreño
Key clients
Banco Santander
Conservadora Mexiquense de Caminos del Sur
Secrets Hotel Moxche
Mobiliare Latam
State of Chihuahua
Work highlights
- Advised Conservadora Mexiquense de Caminos del Sur on obtaining up to MXN$4.47bn in financing.
- Advised Mobiliare Latam on the acquisition of a property in Mérida and associated due diligence work.
- Advised the State of Chihuahua on the refinancing of the first part of its debt to a value of $250m.
Garrigues
The 15-strong team at Spanish firm Garrigues’ Mexico office specialises in project financing, structured financing and commercial bank lending, and has additional experience across a diverse range of financing matters; it can also leverage the firm’s international presence to handle complex cross-border transactions. The practice is led by Mario Juárez, who has long-standing experience in project finance and infrastructure projects. Gabriela Pérez Sierra has substantial expertise in M&A and financings for energy and infrastructure projects, while Leopoldo Fragoso works on securities and asset financing transactions; senior associate Carlos Eduardo Gómez supports the partners on key matters. The group was notably strengthened with the March 2023 hire of veteran banking, finance and capital markets’ specialist, Manuel Groenewold – formerly of White & Case S.C.
Practice head(s):
Mario E Juárez
Key clients
Inter-American Investment Corporation
International Finance Corporation
Blue like an Orange Sustainable Capital
Mezzanine México Uno
Beel Infrastructure Partners
Macquarie Bank
Grupo Financiero Inbursa
UniCredit Bank
Banco Santander Hong Kong Branch
Goldman Sachs
Work highlights
- Advised Inter-American Investment Corporation on a MXN$1bn senior secured loan.
- Assisted International Finance Corporation with a MXN$1bn warehousing facility.
- Advised Blue like an Orange Sustainable Capital on a $15m senior secured term loan.
Hogan Lovells
The banking and finance practice group at Hogan Lovells advises clients from offices in Mexico City and Monterrey, and has a track record representing both lender and borrower clients, among them major international banks Banco Santander and BNP Paribas. In addition, its regular clients include fintechs and alternative lenders such as funds and SOFOMs. Close cooperation with the firm’s bankruptcy, restructuring and litigation teams, as well as with its many international offices, facilitates its effective handling of complex cross-border cases. Recent work highlight include advising IDB Invest on a $300m financing for the expansion of Peru’s largest wind farm, and advising Fideicomiso para el Desarrollo Verde y Económico de Monterrey on promoting ESG commitments for the city. The practice is co-led by financial transactions and M&A specialist Federico de Noriega Olea, in Mexico City; and René Arce in Monterrey, who advises on structured and project financing operations. Additional expertise is provided by of counsel Aldonza Sakar, who has particular strength in cross-border and project financing, as well as additional expertise regarding asset-backed loans; and Ana Catalina Decanini, who joined the team as counsel in July 2022.
Practice head(s):
René Arce Lozano; Federico De Noriega Olea; Carlos Ramos Miranda; Miguel Ángel Mateo Simón
Key clients
Inter-American Investment Corporation
Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank
Deutsche Bank (New York branch)
Banco Santander
MGM Innova Capital
Mercado Lending
BNP Paribas
International Finance Corporation
Grupo Valoreo
Fideicomiso de Administración y Fuente de Pago Monterrey Sostenible
Work highlights
- Advised IDB Invest on the granting of a $300m financing for the expansion of Peru’s largest wind farm to ENGIE Energía.
- Advised Crédit Agricole and Atlantic Asset Securitization on the renewal, amendment and restatement of a MXN$1.8bn trade receivables securitisation programme.
- Advised a multi-sector group on the promotion of ESG commitments for the city of Monterrey, Nuevo León.
Holland & Knight
Under the leadership of domestic, cross-border and project financings expert Alejandro Landa, the banking and finance practice at Holland & Knight advises international banks on the negotiation, structuring and restructuring of financing terms, including the design and structuring of collateral packages and source-of-payment structures. A 2021 merger with US firm Thompson and Knight boosted the practice’s strength in cross-border financings, real estate and oil-and-gas; the team demonstrates further growth with the additions of associates Santiago Noriega and Paulina López Velasco in May and September 2022, respectively, along with senior counsel Elena Ibarrola in March 2022. Alejandro F Sánchez Mújica advises on structured, asset-backed, real estate and corporate financing from the Monterrey office; while in Mexico City, Aldo Gonzalez Melo -who was promoted to senior counsel in April 2023- is active on cross-border corporate, structured and project finance transactions.
Practice head(s):
Alejandro Landa
Testimonials
‘The entire team is very professional and provides quality responses; the flexibility and transparency in the way they present their services allows them to be highly competitive in terms of price compared to other similar firms without detriment to quality.’
‘Extensive knowledge of the market; consistently informing clients of important aspects to consider regarding changes in the regulations applicable to banking operations.’
‘The team is passionate and committed. They have gone above and beyond to support our work.’
‘Alejandro Landa and Aldo González Melo are committed, passionate and knowledgeable.’
Key clients
UMB Bank, National Association
Banco Santander México (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
Banco Inbursa (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
BHP Group
Tequilas Premium (Clase Azul)
North American Development Bank – Baja California Green Financing
Bladex – CHG MercadoLibre Cross-Border Factoring
Wells Fargo Capital Finance
Banco Multiva (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
Work highlights
- Advised BHP on its merger with Woodside Petroleum; (the transaction was valued at approximately $43bn.)
- Advised Tequilas Premium and Casa Tradición on a $400m revolving credit agreement.
- Advised UMB Bank on the exit financing facility of Grupo Aeroméxico.
Kuri Breña, Sánchez Ugarte y Aznar
The key strengths of the banking and finance practice at Kuri Breña, Sánchez Ugarte y Aznar lie in structured and asset-backed financing, project finance and real estate financing. The nine partner-strong team has additional expertise in representing Mexico’s development banks. Four partners head up the practice group: Guillermo Garay specialises in public and private biddings, cross-border financings and securitisations; Rodrigo López Márquez contributes expertise in financings, financial regulation and fintech; Alejandro Sobarzo Hadad is skilled at the issuance and placement of equity and debt instruments for companies through the Mexican stock exchange; and Álvaro Sarmiento Lapiedra focuses on structured financing. Bernardo Luna Gutiérrez and founding partner Daniel Kuri Breña, along with key associates Silvia Roldán and Alfonso Alfaro Rincón Gallardo, are additional names to note. Since publication, Sarmiento has left the firm (effective as of January 2024).
Practice head(s):
Guillermo Garay Espinosa; Rodrigo López Márquez; Jorge Alejandro Sobarzo Hadad
Key clients
Arrendamiento y Soluciones en Activos (Arrendamás)
Sistema de Crédito Automotriz
FGI Worldwide
Banco Itaú Uruguay
Banco Mercantil del Norte (Banorte) and Banco Nacional de Obras y Servicios Públicos (Banobras)
Vitro
Tangerine Pomelo Group
Banco Nacional de México, integrante del Grupo Financiero Banamex, División Fiduciaria
Banco Nacional de Comercio Exterior (Bancomext)
Scotiabank Inverlat
BMO Harris Bank
Huf
Work highlights
- Advised FGI on the due diligence, negotiation, and execution of a sale of accounts and security agreement to a value of $15m.
- Advised FGI on the due diligence, negotiation, and execution of a revolving credit, receivable purchase and security agreement.
- Advised Tangerine Pomelo Group on the structuring and negotiation of two credit agreements for the amounts of MXN$3bn and $300m.
Mayer Brown Mexico, S.C.
Lauded for having ‘a deep knowledge of Mexican structured finance law’, the close-knit team at Mayer Brown Mexico, S.C. stands out for across-the-board skill in the representation of lenders, borrowers and private-credit lending funds. Notable clients include international financial institutions Goldman Sachs, Scotiabank and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation. The practice is co-led by three partners: Raúl Fernández-Briseño focuses on structured finance; Ariel Ramos specialises in projects and energy finance; and Francisco García-Naranjo is skilled at obtaining regulatory authorisations for the establishment of financial institutions. Other key names include senior counsel Jan Boker and senior associate Javier Garibay; clients also note ‘very strong expertise even from junior members’ of the team. Of counsel Jorge Escalante joined the practice from Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez, S.C. in October 2022, while associates Pablo Solórzano and Romina Fernández Flores departed in July and November 2022, respectively.
Practice head(s):
Raúl Fernández-Briseño; Ariel Ramos; Francisco García Naranjo; Doug Doetsch; Debora de Hoyos; David K. Duffee; Gabriela Sakamoto
Testimonials
‘Extremely fast, always delivering ahead of client expected timing, with a deep knowledge of Mexican structured finance law.’
‘Very strong expertise even from junior members.’
‘Rapidly identifies key issues and always solicits client feedback if unsure about a point.’
Key clients
Goldman Sachs Bank USA
Alloy Merchant Finance
R2 Capital
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
The Bank of Nova Scotia
PCN Bank
Work highlights
- Assisted Goldman Sachs Bank USA with a senior secured revolving credit facility up to $150m with Clara.
- Advised Alloy Merchant Finance on a $100m loan-and-servicing agreement granted by Victory Park Capital.
- Assisted R2 Capital with a secured multi-draw term loan facility of up to $100m.
Von Wobeser y Sierra, SC
The team at client-focused full-service Von Wobeser y Sierra, SC advises clients on traditional banking matters and sophisticated credit and financing transactions, and additionally demonstrates particular strength in fintech. Recent work highlights include advising Fairplay (a company providing e-commerce startups with early financing), on negotiating a credit facility for up to $100m. Practice co-head Luis Burgueño specialises in complex cross-border transactions - including private and public M&A, and joint-ventures; while fellow co-lead Alberto Córdoba primarily represents borrowers and issuers in loan transactions and debt issuances. Alejandro Orellana, counsels Gloria Martínez and Javier Betancourt, along with senior associate Jaime Ostos are additional names to note. Since publication, Betancourt has been raised to the partnership - effective as of January 2024.
Practice head(s):
Luis Burgueño; Alberto Córdoba
Testimonials
‘Very talented team.’
‘Accessible to the client, available, strong problem solving abilities.’
Key clients
Freedom to Scale (Fairplay)
Weltio Wealth Management
Revlon
Clayton, Dubilier, & Rice (USA)
Enerflex
Banco Internacional de Costa Rica
Servicios RocketPOS México
Cervecería Modelo de México
Banco ITAÚ
Enso Finve
Work highlights
- Advised Fairplay on negotiating and executing a working capital credit facility for an amount up to $100m.
- Advised Revlon on a $575m term loan and debtor-in-possession credit facility as part of the company’s Chapter 11 restructuring proceedings.
- Assisted Enerflex with a financed acquisition of oil-and-gas company Exterran Corporation.
Baker McKenzie Abogados, S.C.
The team at Baker McKenzie Abogados, S.C. advises a cohort of major local and international financial institutions -as lenders, borrowers, arrangers and guarantors- on major cross-border deals. The practice has a strong background in fintech transactions, and counts major payment processors Stripe and Adyen among its clients. With five Mexican offices (CDMX, Ciudad Juárez, Monterrey, Guadalajara and Tijuana), the firm has a strong presence in strategic locations in the north of the country. In addition, close collaboration with its ten offices in the United States furthers its cross-border capabilities. Partners Lorenzo Ruiz de Velasco and Gaspar Gutiérrez Centeno handle banking and finance matters, and co-lead the team; with additional partner-level input from Daniel Sánchez Morales and Alfonso Martínez-Bejarano ‘an expert in the fintech world’. Senior associate Michelle Pfeffer works from the Monterrey office and specialises in lending, project finance, credit transactions and financial regulatory issues; associate Ruth Barbachano left the practice in October 2022.
Practice head(s):
Lorenzo Ruiz de Velasco Beam; Gaspar Gutiérrez Centeno
Testimonials
‘Baker McKenzie has been wonderful to work with. They have strong business sense and provide thoughtful, deep insights and regulatory overviews.’
‘Alfonso Martinez-Bejarano is an expert in the fintech world and provides world-class guidance with a business-focused approach. He is my go-to lawyer for Mexico expertise!’
‘It is a top firm, aligned with the needs of large corporations.’
‘I recommend Alfonso Martinez-Bejarano for his technical knowledge.’
Key clients
Weatherford International
Brown Jordan
Banco Nacional de Obras y Servicios Públicos (Banobras)
Nacional Financiera (NAFIN)
PayPal
Molded Fiber Glass Companies (MFG)
Banco Mercantil del Norte (Banorte)
Jeeves
CIBC Bank US
WestStar Bank
OCIM Precious Metals
Work highlights
- Assisted Weatherford International, as borrower, with the ratification of Mexican security interests.
- Assisted Brown Jordan with the granting of security interests by its Mexican affiliates Maquilados Tecnicos and Winston Juárez.
- Assisted Banobras with the negotiation of an increase of the syndicated loan granted to Mota-Engil Mexico for the overhaul of existing equipment and infrastructure.
CMS Woodhouse Lorente Ludlow
Recognised for being ‘dedicated to its work and always eager to help’, the team at CMS Woodhouse Lorente Ludlow is known for both its lender and borrower-side capabilities, representing major banks and construction firms (among others), as well as advising on acquisition and leveraged finance and syndicated lending transactions. Practice head Raul Zepeda’s experience encompasses a wide range of transactional and regulatory banking and finance work; Enrique Lorente Ludlow majors on project finance; corporate and project finance specialist Cesar Lechuga Perezanta is ‘committed’ and has an ‘ever-pleasant disposition’; Eduardo Saldaña and Alejandro Perera are the names to note at associate level.
Practice head(s):
Raúl Zepeda
Testimonials
‘The CMS WLL team is very dedicated to the projects assigned to them and they are always willing to support.’
‘Cesar Lechuga is committed and his disposition ever-pleasant.’
Key clients
Operadora de Pagos Móviles (Transfer)
Bankaool (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
Tu Dinero Digital
Scotiabank Inverlat (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
BanCoppel (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
Casa de Bolsa Banorte, Grupo Financiero Banorte and Banco Mercantil del Norte (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
Grupo Indi
Davidson Kempner European Partners
Banco Nacional de Comercio Exterior
Banco Inbursa (Institución De Banca Múltiple)
Work highlights
- Advised Banorte on the negotiation, drafting and execution of a MXN$228m loan agreement.
- Assisted NAFIN with the due diligence, drafting and negotiation of the restructuring of a syndicated loan agreement.
- Assisted Banverde Solar with the negotiation and drafting of a contribution agreement to a security trust constituted as guarantee of a syndicated loan agreement to the value of $30m.
Creel Abogados, SC
Creel Abogados, SC has a strong background in the banking and finance sector and offers deep knowledge of domestic and international financial structures. The firm advises both creditors and borrowers on an array of matters, including secured and unsecured transactions, acquisition and structured finance, and the structuring of securities packages. It counts fintech institutions and numerous non-bank financial entities among its clients. Practice head Carlos Creel has long-standing experience in financing transactions; Gustavo Struck is an authority on private debt funds, and Alfonso Razú’s expertise encompasses bank lending and domestic and international financing transactions.
Practice head(s):
Carlos Creel; Gustavo Struck
Key clients
Jägermeister
Montagu Private Equity, AquaLung
Apollo Capital Management
Nowports
Avenida Vessel
Altum CP
Finvest
A55
Caldic (GMT Holdings)
Work highlights
- Advised AquaLung on the negotiation and execution of a senior facilities agreement to the value of €119.5m.
- Advised Medios Cattri as borrower in the negotiation and execution of a senior credit agreement granted by PGIM Private Capital.
- Advised Nowports on a structured loan agreement granted by HSBC for $40m.
Cuatrecasas
Cuatrecasas advises on the full spectrum of financial transactions, with particular strength with regards to corporate finance, structured transactions, and project and infrastructure finance, and counts major banks and insurance companies among its clients. The firm fortified its position in the Mexican market with its January 2023 integration of the former Rico, Robles, Libenson, S.C firm, which has increased its capacity to deal with domestic transactional and regulatory matters, combining this expertise with its existing strength in cross-border matters. The firm’s recent standout work has included advising Hotel Excellence Riviera Cancún and the Riviera Nayarita One&Only Mandarina Hotel on the refinancing of their debts. Spain-qualified León López has over two decade's experience in banking matters and is well versed in the full range of financing transactions, he leads the team with Gustavo Robles -one of the group that joined the practice in January 2023- an additional name of note. Since research concluded the firm has further built out its capabilities with the hire of former Creel, García-Cuéllar, Aiza y Enríquez, S.C. associate, Gizeh Polo Ballinas, as a partner; tasked with developing the office’s capital markets capability, he arrived in October 2023. Since publication, the practice has been further strengthened with the February 2024 hire of Mariana Campos; with extensive in-house experience including Barclays Bank (Mexico), BIVA and JP Morgan, Campos is a 20-year veteran of the banking and finance sector, also handling capital markets, financial regulatory matters and banking transactions.
Practice head(s):
León López
Key clients
Liberty Mutual Insurance Company
CaixaBank
BBVA Bancomer
Bank Syndicate (BTG Pactual, Banco de Bogotá, Banco de Occidente, Banco Santander)
Work highlights
- Advised Liberty Mutual Insurance Company on the issuance of surety bonds and related indemnity agreements for the construction of the Purple Line light electric train in Maryland, USA, a $2.3bn project.
- Advised BBVA México on debt refinancing through a $75m loan for the One&Only Mandarina Hotel on the Riviera Nayarit.
- Advised CaixaBank on refinancing the debt of the Hotel Excellence Riviera Cancún by granting a $60m loan to Inversiones Palma.
Cuesta Campos y Asociados S.C.
The practice at Cuesta Campos y Asociados S.C. advises international financial institutions and corporations on asset-based lending matters, syndicated loans and secured credit transactions from its offices in Mexico City, Guadalajara and León. Team head Hugo Cuesta counsels multinationals on their legal and financial structures in Mexico and advises on public bidding processes with the Mexican government; alongside him, Azucena Marin advises companies in the automotive, manufacturing, financial, pharmaceutical and real estate sectors on asset-based lending and commercial agreements.
Practice head(s):
Hugo Cuesta; Azucena Marín
Testimonials
‘Cuesta Campos handled a complex trust transaction for us. We were very satisfied with their work and would recommend them to firms and banks from outside Mexico who need assistance on complex transactions.’
Key clients
Centier Bank
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)
Apogem Capital
Holding PPD (PPD Plástico)
Work highlights
- Assisted Barclays Bank with the amendment and maintenance of the security interest structure of a multi-jurisdiction ABL credit agreement.
- Advised Canadian banking and financial services group CIBC on a subordinated credit facility.
- Advised Centier Bank on the collateral structure and granting of a revolving credit facility for up to $10m backed by a group of trust-owned properties in Baja California Sur.
DLA Piper Mexico
The Mexico City-based banking and finance practice at global firm DLA Piper Mexico is known for its handling of local and cross-border finance transactions including bilateral and syndicate financings, leveraged buyouts, refinancing and capitalisations, and asset-based loans. Domestic and international banks and SOFOMES feature heavily on its client roster. Practice co-head Diego Martinez, who is experienced in banking and securities financings, is hailed as ‘an expert in his field’; the ‘extraordinary’ Edgar Romo also co-leads, and focuses on transactional finance matters, namely those involving the energy and hospitality sectors. Roberto Ríos adds expertise in project financing and public works, and associates Melissa Martínez and Javier Pichardini provide additional support. Since publication, the practice has been notably strengthened with the January 2024 hire of Álvaro Sarmiento - formerly of Kuri Breña, Sánchez Ugarte y Aznar.
Practice head(s):
Diego Martínez; Edgar Romo
Testimonials
‘Diego Martínez and Roberto Ríos are experts in their fields; they have excellent availability, which allows for a clear line of communication.’
‘DLA Piper’s banking and finance team is extraordinary. They have an outstanding technical level that complements the needs of their clients. There is always a team member available to provide high-level customer care. What makes them stand out is always being deal-oriented, putting the interests of their client before anything else. It is a delight to work with them.’
‘Edgar Romo is an extraordinary lawyer, he is everything one looks for as a client. He masters the subject like few others and always puts the deal first. He is 100% focused on closing transactions and solving problems that arise. His technical level is exceptional.’
Key clients
Alsea
Grupo Bafar
TMF México Business Process
Tuhabi
Banco Mercantil del Norte (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
Scotiabank-Inverlat México (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
Banco Nacional de Comercio Exterior (Institución de Banca de Desarrollo) – Bancomext
Crédito Real
Banco Nacional de Obras y Servicios Públicos (Banobras)
Gentera
Vertex
Santander Consumer Bank
Banco Sabadell (Institución de Banca Múltiple)
Work highlights
- Represented Alsea in its debt restructuring in the United States to a value of over $1bn.
- Assisted Tuhabi with securing MXN $400m in financing from BBVA’s new startup financing division, BBVA Spark.
- Advised Grupo Bafar on the refinancing of loan facilities and a private placement of a $150m bond.
Robles Miaja, SC
Founding partner Rafael Robles, a reputed market player with vast experience in the finance and securities areas, sits at the helm of Mexican boutique Robles Miaja, SC. The firm enjoys a solid track record working with both lenders and borrowers, and can boast considerable cross-border capabilities and expertise handling syndicated loans. Partners María Luisa Petricioli Castellón and Gerardo Pérez-Chow are other key figures at a compact practice that works with a handful of core clients and a number of important financial institutions.
Practice head(s):
Rafael Robles
Basham, Ringe y Correa, S.C.
Basham, Ringe y Correa, S.C. acts on a wide range of banking and finance matters, including the structuring, negotiation, and documenting of local and international loans, and is frequently instructed by banks, automotive and logistics companies, SOFOMES and fintechs. The practice is co-led by Miguel Angel Peralta, who specialises in partnership agreements and public and private tendering, and Pedro Said Nader, who has focused his practice on the structuring and reorganisation of debt, securitisations and fintech.
Practice head(s):
Miguel Ángel Peralta; Pedro Said Nader
Testimonials
‘Pedro Said Nader, the backbone of the team, not only distinguishes himself through his extensive experience and excellent advice, but also adds value to transactions by bringing in new components and initiatives in sustainability issues and adapting to market trends.’
‘In addition to its prestige and good name, Basham stands out for its great team.’
‘They have been gaining ground in the area of Banking and Finance and have a very consolidated and experienced team in the area.’
Key clients
Corporación Andina de Fomento (CAF)
Export-Import Bank of China (CEXIM)
Tribal CR
Vortex Freight Mexico
Gunnebo
Leader Global Solutions
SAF-Holland
StenTech
Landesbank Baden-Württemberg (LBBW)
Kodak Alaris
Julius Baer
Crown Holdings
Crown Cork & Seal
Work highlights
- Assisted CAF with preparing and negotiating a $300m credit agreement.
- Assisted CAF with preparing and negotiating a $100m credit agreement to finance farming and other agricultural activities.
- Represented CEXIM in structuring, negotiating and executing an export finance term loan to Total Play Telecomunicaciones.
Bello, Gallardo, Bonequi y García, S.C.
The banking and finance team at Bello, Gallardo, Bonequi y García, S.C., recognised by clients for its ‘strong technical skill’, advises domestic and international financial institutions and corporations on regulatory matters, primarily acting on the lender side. Founding partner Miguel Gallardo Guerra co-leads the practice and is described as a ‘very important asset’ because of his ‘strong knowledge in financial, banking and insurance matters’ and his diverse professional network; alongside him, Javier Pérez Moreno advises banks and fintechs on regulatory issues; and Juan Carlos Morales completes the leadership trio. Of counsel Alain Gerard Jaubert Luengas and senior associate Luz María Jover joined the practice in August and November 2022, respectively. Since publication, the firm has further strengtehened the practice with the hire of Alejandro Stamoglou (from his own boutique) as a banking, finance and capital markets partner - effective as of November 2023.
Practice head(s):
Miguel Gallardo Guerra; Javier Pérez Moreno; Juan Carlos Morales
Testimonials
‘The BGBG team has very strong technical skills. They have the ability to assemble work teams in a short time to meet the needs of their clients. Their billing is very competitive. They have a very useful network of interdisciplinary alliances to complement the legal advice they provide. People are very friendly and close to their customers.’
‘Miguel Gallardo Guerra has very strong knowledge in financial, banking and insurance matters. He understands the needs of the client from a business perspective. He has a network of contacts in various fields that make him a very important asset.’
‘They not only have knowledge of financial law, particularly banking, but also of litigation, so the practice is carried handled with very innovative strategies. They are focused on solving the client’s situations and very agile in doing so.’
Key clients
AirBnB
Alternativa Financiera Prosesa
Amicorp México
CitiBanamex
Banco Santander
Banco Mercantil del Norte
Bloom Emprendedores
Braskem México Proyectos
Capital Vertical Promotora Empresarial
Crecer Solución Inmediata
Credit Suisse
Credisocial México
Credit Suisse
Crédito Especializado Stándar
Daimler Financial Services
Deutsche Bank México, Institución de Banca Múltiple
Deutsche Securities
Element
Engenium Capital
Finae
Finalux
Fincrece
Grupo Capital Vertical
Impulso Crediticio Empresarial
Mercado Libre
Morgan Stanley México, Casa de Bolsa
Multi-Apoyos de Capital
Mutua Altiplano
Palace Resorts Capital
SABCAPITAL
Servicios Liquick
Structura Capital Management
Vinta Capital
Vision F México
Evo Payments
Banco Multiva
Volkswagen Leasing
Femsa
Nu Bank
Pagsmile
Exka
HDF Energy
Medius Collection
Merceron Capital
Rianta Capital Zurich
World Quest Holdings
Federación Mexicana de Fútbol
Apoyo a tu Economía
Garnet24
Prosa
Banco Azteca
Elektra
Satoshi Portal
Blackrock
Alsea
Oplay
Nelo
DiDi Global
Navistar
Fairplay
Arca Continental
Work highlights
- Assisted Citibanamex with a review and update of internal policies, the preparation of corporate documents of the financial group and charts related to regulatory matters.
- Advised Deutsche Bank on regulatory matters during its sale process in Mexico, including the implementation of anti-money laundering provisions and compliance with Mexican financial authorities.
- Provided day-to-day corporate guidance and banking audit services to Banco Santander.
DMA Legal (DMA Servicios Legales, S.C.)
The ‘highly specialised’ team at DMA Legal (DMA Servicios Legales, S.C.), formed ten years ago by former Baker Mckenzie partners, advises on a range of transactions including syndicated loans, project finance, and real estate financing. Praised by clients for its professionalism and ‘outstanding experience in the field’, it is regularly instructed by banks, insurers, construction companies and investment funds. The practice is jointly led by the ‘excellent’ Carlos A Sagaon Garza, whose background is in real estate financing transactions, and the ‘highly experienced’ Daniel Méndez Antillon.
Practice head(s):
Daniel Mendez Antillon; Carlos A Sagaon Garza
Testimonials
‘It is a small but highly specialised firm.’
‘Carlos Sagaón is an excellent lawyer, is always available and looking to give good results.’
‘Daniel Méndez and his team are highly experienced in the area. Our virtual interaction with the firm makes negotiations very fluid and therefore reduces response times.’
Key clients
Seguros Monterrey New York Life
Fondo de Fondos
Qualitas Insurance Company
Greystar
New York Life Insurance Company
Citibanamex Afore
Credit Suisse
Scotiabank Inverlat
Bancomext
Accel
Estrategia Urbana
JLL
ICAP Development
Skylights
Automata
Ava Wealth
Work highlights
- Assisted Qualitas with the structuring and closing a loan facility granted to SKU to finance a portfolio of vehicle leases.
- Advised Bancomext on the structuring of a loan taken out by Fibra Upsite.
- Advised Credit Suisse on the structuring and implementation of a credit facility to finance IGS’s acquisition of an industrial real estate portfolio located in Tamaulipas.
Jáuregui y Del Valle, S.C.
The ‘solid and united’ team at Jáuregui y Del Valle, S.C. regularly handles securitisations, secured and project finance, loan transactions, real estate finance and regulatory matters for fintech companies and banks. Alberto Balderas, an expert in complex structured finance transactions and the issuance of high-value securities, is one of three practice heads; project finance specialist Fernando Alonso-de-Florida Rivero and corporate finance-focused Justo Fernandez del Valle also co-lead. The practice was recently strengthened with the arrival of senior associate Luis Rodolfo Flores in September 2022.
Practice head(s):
Alberto Balderas Fernández; Fernando Alonso-de-Florida R.; Justo Fernandez del Valle
Testimonials
‘Solid, united team, with intelligent legal guidance.’
Key clients
PayU Latam
Stenn International
Rappi / RappiPay México
Optal Financial
PagoNxt
Edenred México
Asociación de Sociedades Emisoras de Vales
Sí Vale México
Price Travel
Grupo TMM
Boardriders
Banco Base
Bank of Montreal
PrimeiroPay
Grupo Marhnos
Trafalgar Digital, Institución de Fondos de pago electrónico
Bamboo Payment Systems
Crédito Real
Work highlights
- Assisted non-bank financial institution Crédito Real with its liquidation.
- Provided day-to-day guidance to Stenn International on its factoring transactions in Mexico.
- Advised Rappi and Rappi Pay México regarding the obtaining of CNBV authorisation in order for RappiPay to be organised and operate as an Electronic Funds Payment Institution under Mexico’s new Fintech Law.
Pérez Correa González
Pérez Correa González’s practice assists with financial regulatory matters, venture capital financing and credit facilities, and is regularly instructed by banks, investment funds, development agencies and non-bank financial institutions, as well as companies in the tech, energy and infrastructure sectors. Jorge Labastida co-leads the group and brings experience in asset-backed and structured finance to the table; alongside him, Fernando Eraña specialises in cross-border and venture capital finance. Eduardo Yrigoyen and Omar Sarabia are the names to note at associate level. Since publication, the team has been further strengthened with the May 2024 hire of experienced transactional partner Emilio Carrillo Peñafiel, who has deep experience in both financial and corporate transactions across the real estate, finance, telecoms and energy sectors in Mexico.
Practice head(s):
Jorge Labastida; Fernando Eraña
Testimonials
‘Fernando Eraña is highly knowledgeable in contract law.’
Key clients
Sucro Can Sourcing
United States International Development Finance Corporation
Sportium
SMBC
Grupo Finansiell (Doopla)
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation
BMO Harris Bank
Work highlights
- Advised Sportium on the reorganisation of a credit facility granted by HSBC as part of a larger negotiation to receive a quasi-equity convertible note financing to the value of $12.4m.
- Assisted DFC with a $45m credit facility to Mexarrend for the expansion of its leasing, factoring and lending businesses.
- Advised Sucro Can Sourcing, as borrower, on a $225m revolving borrowing base facility from lenders led by Rabobank.
Sánchez Devanny
Operating from branches in Mexico City, Querétaro and Monterrey, Sánchez Devanny’s banking and finance practice advises banks, borrowers and investors on cross-border loans, financing, commercial banking and credit facilities. Three partners head up the practice: Ernesto Silvas-Medina – in Monterrey – has a background in corporate and project finance; Diego Gómez-Haro Katznelson focuses on real estate financing and leads from Querétaro; and José Berrueta Ochoa, who joined the team in June 2022, brings expertise in finance and capital markets to the Mexico City office. Former Monterrey-based senior associate Jaime Israel Moreno-Treviño left the firm in April 2023.
Practice head(s):
Ernesto Silvas-Medina; Jose Berrueta Ochoa; Diego Gómez-Haro Katznelson
Testimonials
‘Our experience has been excellent with the Sánchez Devanny team. The most important differentiators for us have been: i) high quality of attention to the diverse requirements that we have made, ii) flexibility in detail of the attention as we have requested in each case.’
Key clients
Banco Nacional de Comercio Exterior (Bancomext)
GrainChain
Silver Lake
Barclays Bank
JP Morgan Chase Bank
KeyBank National Bank
Akbank TAS
Banque Pictet
Ikano Industry
Libbey Glass (and its Mexican subsidiaries)
Metal Technologies of Indiana (and its Mexican Subsidiaries)
Work highlights
- Represented Bancomext, as lender, in a $40m credit facility to Cobra Servicios Industriales.
- Represented GrainChain in the preparation of its master factoring agreement for several of its Mexican clients.
SMPS Legal
The expertise of the team at SMPS Legal lies in secured financings, the securitisation of assets and real estate finance. It also assists clients with the incorporation of private capital funds, and counts banks, financial institutions and property developers among its clients. Iván Pérez Correa steers the group and advises on debt, equity, asset-backed and structured securities offerings and tender offers, while Eduardo Pizarro specialises in real estate transactions.
Practice head(s):
Iván Pérez Correa
Testimonials
‘SMPS’s response is always timely; another positive aspect is the highly personalised service they provide.’
‘Iván Pérez Correa always responds to our queries within hours, and on occasions when we needed to produce legal documents in a short time, the response from him and his team was swift.’
Key clients
Citibanamex
CGRE IV (Gerbera Capital)
Bocel Private Equity
Locfund
Capital Índigo
Bocel Private Equity
BIM Microfinance/LOCFUND
Grupo Frondoso
Work highlights
- Advised Citibanamex Afore on the acquisition of trust bond certificates for an amount equivalent to $265m, issued by Banco Monex.
- Advised GCRE IV, an SPV focused on developing real estate projects, on a $42m syndicated loan.
- Advised Bocel Private Equity on two capital calls for over $26m.