The ‘very knowledgeable team’ at Aldertree legal s.r.o. (formerly White & Case s.r.o.) has broad expertise in the banking, finance and capital markets space. Its work spans commercial lending, acquisition financing, project and export financing, asset financing and financial restructuring. The firm is also particularly recommended for its ‘good understanding of commercial matters’ and ‘focus on detail and understanding of complex multinational structures for investing in real estate and related financing issues’. Another stand out feature of the practice is its prominence in acquisition finance transactions in CEE. Juraj Fuska, who leads the team, is ‘a lawyer with multiple areas of specialisation and deep knowledge’.
Banking, finance and capital markets in Slovakia
Aldertree legal s.r.o.
Practice head(s):
Juraj Fuska
Other key lawyers:
Vladimir Ivanco
Testimonials
‘Very knowledgeable team, very good understanding of commercial matters. Focus on detail and understanding of complex multinational structures for investing in real estate and related financing issues.’
‘Juraj Fuska – partner, a “renaissance person”, a lawyer with multiple areas of specialization and deep knowledge. Vladimir Ivanco – local partner, very smart person asking good questions.’
Key clients
PPF Group N.V.
PPF banka a.s.
J&T BANKA, a.s.
UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia, a.s.
Accent Equity Partners AB
Wood & Company a.s.
BNP Paribas
Landesbank Baden-Württemberg
Raiffeisen Bank International AG
Banco de Sabadell, S.A.
Barclays Bank Ireland PLC
Natixis
Tatra banka, a.s.
UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia, a.s.
eustream, a.s.
Barclays Bank
Citigroup Global Markets Limited
Deutsche Bank AG
HSBC
Všeobecná úverová banka, a.s.
Československá obchodná banka, Slovenská sporiteľňa
Debt and Liquidity Management Agency (ARDAL)/Ministry of Finance
Allen & Overy Bratislava, s.r.o.
Recognised as ‘a long-term leader in the Slovak legal market’, Allen & Overy Bratislava, s.r.o. is highly reputed for its strengths in domestic and cross-border banking and finance transactions, including CEE matters. In addition, it has a forte in acting for financial institutions, corporate issuers and arrangers on local and international capital market deals, as well as financial regulatory matters. Practice head Renátus Kollár specialises in advising domestic and foreign financial institutions on bankruptcy and restructuring mandates, and is also a go-to for corporate finance, acquisition finance, project finance and real estate finance transactions. Also active in the banking and finance space are counsels Attila Csongrady, Peter Jedinák, Matúš Kudlák and senior associate Peter Redo.
Practice head(s):
Renátus Kollár
Other key lawyers:
Attila Csongrady; Peter Jedinák; Matúš Kudlák; Peter Redo
Testimonials
‘Allen & Overy Bratislava is a reliable partner for any transactions in the area of banking and finance and long-term leader in the Slovak legal market.’
‘Individuals in banking and finance team offer global and local knowledge on high-quality level.’
‘They have a very good and broad team in terms of senior vs junior split, including English law angle done from Bratislava in addition to Slovak law advice. The lawyer I work with most often is Matus Kudlak who is a counsel and who oversees the loan section of their banking and finance team. He is one of the few lawyers who understands the business as he used to be a banker. I have always been able to fully rely on him.’
Key clients
Syndicate of Czech and international banks
Raiffeisen Bank International AG
Kommunalkredit Austria AG
Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets (Europe) Limited
VTB Bank (Europe) SE
Virgin Group Holdings Limited
Fortuna Entertainment Group N.V.
Citigroup Global Markets Limited
ING Bank
Erste Group Bank AG
Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited
Slovenské elektrárne
J&T BANKA, a.s.
Erste Group Bank AG
Work highlights
- Advised a syndicate of Czech and international banks on €640m senior secured facilities provided to SAZKA Group a.s. and its subsidiaries.
- Advised Raiffeisen Bank International AG on its up to €40m real estate financing for CTP in relation to two new buildings (BUW22 and BUW23) at its CTPark Bucharest West I project.
- Advised Kommunalkredit Austria AG on an acquisition financing for Intertoll.
Dentons
In addition to being known for real estate finance and development work, Dentons also provides expertise in a range of other transactional banking and finance matters, as well as in-court and out-of-court refinancings. Equally strong advising both lenders and borrowers, the practice ‘continuously develops and hence is able to accommodate the market/client dynamics irrespective of the region, country, time of the year’. With Stanislava Valientová departing for J&T Real Estate, the team is now led by Patricia Gossányiová, who was promoted to partner in 2021. Other key names in the area include managing partner Peter Kubina and senior associate Petra Štrbová.
Practice head(s):
Patricia Gossányiová
Other key lawyers:
Petra Štrbová; Stanislava Valientová; Peter Kubina
Testimonials
‘The team continuously develops and hence is able to accommodate the market/client dynamics irrespective of the region/country/time of the year. The team has been approachable and coordinated despite the challenges around and post COVID home office/restriction pressures/new normal.’
‘Client centric and professional approach in everyday interactions, yet human and honest communication style all year long.’
‘Strong experience in real estate financing and acquisition financing.’
Key clients
Tatra banka
Slovenská sporiteľňa
Česká spořitelna
Komerční banka
UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia
Projekt Zelezna Studienka
SPP – distribúcia
Work highlights
- Advised a syndicate of banks led by Tatra banka (a member of the Raiffeisen Group), which teamed up with Slovenská sporitelňa (a member of Erste Bank Group) and UniCredit Bank on one of the largest real estate development financings in Slovakia in years 2020/2021 provided to J&T Real Estate (JTRE), to construct on the Danube riverside in Bratislava a complex of new shopping center and administrative buildings, EUROVEA 2, adjoining on the existing and very successful complex EUROVEA.
- Advised a club of banks led by Všeobecná úverová banka (a member of the Intesa Sanpaolo Group), which teamed up with UniCredit Bank on one of the largest-ever residential financings in Slovakia on the €105 million loan provided to J&T Real Estate (JTRE), to construct approximately 500 apartments on the Danube riverside in Bratislava, in Slovakia’s first skyscraper, the Eurovea Tower, and in the waterfront building Eurovea Riverside.
- Advised SPP – Distribúcia, the Slovak leader in natural gas distribution, on its €500 million 1.000 per cent. bond issuance due 2031. The transaction recorded the lowest coupon payable on a corporate bond issued out of Slovakia and one of the lowest coupons payable on a corporate bond offering out of Central Eastern Europe for tenor of 10 years and above.
Kinstellar
Kinstellar specialises in advisory work and complex transactions involving multiple jurisdictions. Specialisms for the firm include acquisition finance, leveraged and non-leveraged, debt and equity capital markets, real estate finance, restructuring, asset finance and financial markets regulation, across a range of sectors. Practice head Tomáš Melišek has ‘very good understanding of banking M&A and delivers many pragmatic solutions based on the client’s needs’. Also active in the area is managing associate Dominika Bajzáthová.
Practice head(s):
Tomáš Melišek
Other key lawyers:
Dominika Bajzáthová
Testimonials
‘Very experienced professionals with client-focused approach and understanding of practical commercial needs of the client.’
‘Tomas Melisek – he has a thorough understanding of our commercial needs combined with creativity and excellent legal knowledge. Dominika Bajzathova – experienced, professional, hard-working and very flexible in terms of timing.’
‘Besides the precise work and high quality standards, the team also delivers proactive and flexible solutions, tailored to the client’s needs.’
‘Tamas Melisek has very good understanding of banking M&A and delivers many pragmatic solutions based on the client’s needs.’
‘Necessary knowledge of the projects, quick delivery, helpful in communication with the counterparts.’
‘Tomáš Melíšek – depth of knowledge, communication skills, reliability.’
Key clients
JP Morgan
Slovenská sporiteľňa (ERSTE)
Tatra banka (Raiffeisen)
PayPal
Česká spořiteľna (ERSTE)
Carmeuse Europe
Lucron
INVESTIKA
YIT
Bloomberg
ProLogis
P3
Redside
ENEL
Slovalco
Vinci Concessions
Business Lease
Work highlights
- Advising Hungary-based regional financial OTP Bank in connection with all aspects of the sale of its 99.44% share in its Slovak operations to the Belgian KBC Group.
- Advising GLP, a major global investment management firm specialising in logistics, technology investments, real estate, and private equity in connection with acquisition financing provided by a syndicate of banks on acquisition of Goodman’s CEE logistics business in the Slovakia, Czech Republic, Poland and Hungary.
- Advising AIP Asset Management, one of the biggest Korean Fund, and The Valesco Group in relation to financing of their acquisition of Twin City Tower office building in Bratislava.
BBH advokátska kancelária, s.r.o.
BBH advokátska kancelária, s.r.o.‘s practice covers bond issues (eurobond/local), syndicated loans, bilateral facility agreements and general legal advice in relation to banking and finance. Miroslav Fašung, who specialises in bond issues, co-leads the team with Matej Blahút, who focuses on the financing of real estate projects.
Practice head(s):
Miroslav Fašung; Matej Blahút
Other key lawyers:
Olga Belanova
Testimonials
‘Miroslav Fasung – very good quality of work, always available, very good knowledge of law. Matej Blahut – partner with great drive and always does extra work for the client’
‘Individual approach, availability of services even in very urgent cases.’
‘Miroslav Fašung is a great example of customer-oriented approach. Even in very urgent cases, he is willing to help, provide an expert opinion, send a proof of the contract, etc.’
‘The team has come recommended for its flexibiliy, business oriented approach. Their litigation and restructuring practice is well regarded.’
‘Olga Belanova and Miroslav Fasung are the key partners and points of contact. Their long standing relationship skills and valued experience have become essential when considering and executing transactions with any nexus to Slovakia.’
Key clients
PPF banka
Summit Motors Slovakia
ARVAL SLOVAKIA, s.r.o.
Waldviertler Sparkasse Bank AG
Euroclear group
Secop Group
Global Payments, s.r.o.
UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia, a.s.
PPF Group
Work highlights
- Advised Secop Group on the Slovak aspects of the issue of senior secured floting rate bonds up to the amount of €85m under Swedish law.
- Advised Summit Motors Slovakia (member of Sumitomo Group) on regulatory structuring of warranty insurance product in relation to used vehicles.
- Advised Arval Slovakia (member of BNP Paribas Group) on the matter of the cooperation with Slovenská sporiteľňa, a.s. (member of Erste Group) by the offer of the operating leasing products of Arval to the clients of the bank.
Cechová & Partners
Cechová & Partners is recommended for its ‘very good commercial understanding, which it uses proactively in balancing business interest against legal requirements’. The firm generates work from a broad client base, including foreign and Slovak banks, facility arrangers, foreign investors, security houses, collective investment companies, e-money and payment services institutions, insurance and re-insurance companies. Particular areas of expertise are loan transactions and other financial product transactions, as well as financial restructurings and reorganisations. Practice head Simona Haláková is well regarded for advising on the regulatory aspects of banking, finance and capital markets.
Practice head(s):
Simona Haláková
Other key lawyers:
Miroslav Zatko
Testimonials
‘A very good commercial understanding, which it uses proactively in balancing business interest against legal requirements.’
‘Katarina Cechova and Miroslav Zatko are always accessible with a very swift response time, in addition they provide very openminded and to the point legal advice.’
‘Simona Halakova has provided excellent service to us without delay and technically proficient. A pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
Bank of America Merrill Lynch,
BLACKROCK, INC.
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB
Citadel Securities Europe Limited
Bastion Insurance Company
Swiss RE Corporate Solutions Ltd
Simmons & Simmons
Barclays
Coinbase
Leonteq Securities (Europe) GmbH
Work highlights
- Provided comprehensive banking & finance regulatory legal advice to Bank of America Merrill Lynch, in connection with financial instrument trading in Slovakia, including trading in securities, precious metals and commodity derivatives with precious metals as the underlying commodity, as well as the provision of regular updates on legislative developments in the area of trading related to these financial instruments in Slovakia.
- Advising Blackrock Inc. being the world’s largest asset management company and its Luxembourg and Irish investment funds on complex of regulatory aspects of providing collective investments services in Slovakia.
- Provided complex regulatory advice to Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB on the cross-border provision of products/services into Slovakia, mainly on market access, applicable licensing requirements, as well as an advice on the wording of respective contracts and documents.
CMS
In addition to handling the financing of top-end corporate transactions, CMS acts for clients on property finance deals, as well as projects commissioned by international private equity funds and local investors who require loan facilities. Counsel Peter Šimo, who leads the multidisciplinary team, advises clients from sectors such as financial institutions, insurance, real estate, automotive, retail and manufacturing. Another key name in the area is senior associate Zuzana Nikodémová.
Practice head(s):
Peter Šimo
Other key lawyers:
Zuzana Nikodémová; Natalia Janoskova; Sona Hankova
Testimonials
‘CMS RRH Slovakia has provided excellent services in relation to the acquisition and financing of a photovoltaic park in Hungary (headquartered in Slovakia). They provide good value for money and are transparent and open in relation to billing. For a relatively small market this is quite a strong team.’
‘Natalia Janoskova and Sona Hankova certainly stand out; they are always available and find good solutions. I appreciate the hands-on approach.’
‘The team were readily available on short notice, provide succinct, good and practical advice.’
‘Zuzana Nikodemova was a standout. She was extremely responsive and a pleasure to deal with. She was solution driven and highly competent.’
Key clients
Green source
Advent International
HYPO NOE Landesbank für Niederösterreich und Wien AG
Crowdberry/CB Investment Management
Work highlights
- Advised Green Source and its subsidiary Solar Partners on the financing of a power plant construction project in CEE via Slovak holding companies.
- Advising the fund created by Crowdberry, a successful Slovak crowdfunding platform for innovative start-ups (enables private investors to own shares in Slovak and Czech companies), in investing into the company Boataround, provider of biggest online yacht booking platform.
- Advising HYPO NOE Landesbank für Niederösterreich und Wien AG on the process of shareholder’s buy-out financing as a part of the development project in Bratislava. This relates to a prominent mixed-use building in central Bratislava.
HKV Law Firm s.r.o.
Engaged by banks or borrowers in a range of financing transactions, HKV Law Firm s.r.o. provides particular expertise in project finance transactions involving environmental, energy and real estate law aspects. M&A expert Lukáš Michálik leads the team, which was boosted by the arrival of senior associate Martin Koša from Kinstellar in 2021.
Practice head(s):
Lukáš Michálik
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Lukas Michalik’s main advantage, apart from his knowledge of the legal & financials requirements for our company, is his flexible approach to handling urgent matters which we refer to Hamala Kluch Viglasky s.r.o. This has been very useful for us.’
‘The team was very prompt, all agreements were prepared on time and the subsequent comments to the wording were processed promptly. The team was professional not only in legal area but also in the communication with the bank and with the client.’
‘The cooperation with Lukas Michalik was very pleasant, his professional and matter-of-fact approach helped us solve several tough comments from the client’s side.’
Key clients
Slovenská sporiteľňa a.s.(Erste group)
UniCredit Bank Czech Republic and Slovakia
HYPO-BANK BURGENLAND OBERBANK AG,
Austria Cargo Wagon, a.s.
Rolling Stock Lease s. r. o.
BUDAMAR Group
Cresco Group
Sparkasse Ried-Haag
Sparkasse Bregenz
Work highlights
- Advised Rolling Stock Lease s. r. o. on project financing (refinancing and acquisition of locomotives) in the total amount of €105m.
- Advising Slovenská sporiteľňa & Hypp-Bank Burgenland on financing of development of a mixed-use real estate project in Bratislava.
- Providing BUDAMAR Group full-service legal support and management of both external and intra-group financing in the total aggregate amount of tens of millions euros.
Barger Prekop s.r.o.
Focusing on the regulated banking and finance industry, Barger Prekop s.r.o. has experience in insurance, pensions funds management and financing matters related to M&A deals. The firm is known for representing the National Bank of Slovakia in complex transactions, including the deployment of capital on capital markets around the world. Erik Seman specialises in capital markets matters, banking regulation, corporate finance, project finance and public-interest projects. He co-leads the team with Adrian Barger, whose particular strengths are energy and real estate matters, and Roman Prekop.
Practice head(s):
Erik Seman; Adrian Barger; Roman Prekop
Testimonials
‘The team is covering all our needs in terms of our business scope – ISDA, GMRA, CSA, SecLending, IBOR transition-related adjustments, etc. The response is in general very quick, they provide assistance through their network if needed.’
‘Erik Seman, a partner, is the main contact when doing business with us. We appreciate his flexibility and promptness in responding to our requests. He is capable of rapidly covering new regulatory or market-related issues. When needed, he utilizes his network to provide the best possible assistance in open cases.’
Key clients
National Bank of Slovakia
Work highlights
- Advising National Bank of Slovakia with solving legal matters and issues arising in connection with termination of EONIA interest rate and the adoption of the Euro Short-Term Rate (€STR)
DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH, organizačná zložka
DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH, o.z. is prominent in transactions involving asset finance, acquisition finance and development finance, and it is also active in restructurings and cross-border reorganisations. In addition, other areas of strength include matters involving structured finance, syndicated loans, bond issues, structured trade and commodity finance. The firm generates mandates from clients such as banks, financial institutions, insurers, borrowers, lenders and private purchasers of debt instruments. The practice is led by Michaela Stessl.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The DLA-Piper team is highly efficient and talented. They have a broad portfolio and the relevant sector expertise, in particular when it comes to real estate projects.’
‘With Michaela Stessl, DLA Piper has a very strong leader of the Bratislava office. She is a skilled negotiator and knows which tactic and strategies lead to successful outcomes.’
‘The team is led by well-known Michaela Stessl, who I appreciate very much in terms of expertise and personal attitude. I can highly recommend her because she is a qualified expert in her field, hand on and very responsive. Based on that she has built a successful platform for DLA Piper in Slovakia consisting of a well qualified team.’
‘DLA Piper is not only a leader on cross-border financing and matters, they also handle large local handles banking, finance and also capital markets matters in the Slovakian matters. They have an extensive international platform, probably one of the best in the region. So when it comes to complex cross-border work they are the go-to firm. The team stands for high quality, always in time and they keep the broader picture in mind. Team leader Michaela Stessl is very well-known but she also has a very talented team.’
‘Michaela Stessl is the go-to-person when it comes to complex finance work in the Slovakian market but also leading on a lot of cross-border mandates. She is very pleasant to work with, highly responsive, profound, and has a large network she can reach out to. She has an impressive track-record in international and local matters alike and is very good in negotiating in favor of her clients.’
‘DLA Piper and Michaela Stessl regularly advise us on a wide range of matters. The firm serves us seamlessly across a number of jurisdictions; we highly value the international network which is one of the best in CEE. Michaela and her team have also very successfully handled many local matters for us. They combine their international strengths very well with their local expertise and that is what we probably value most.’
‘DLA Piper is not only a leader on cross-border financing and matters, they also handle large local handles banking, finance and also capital markets matters in the Slovakian matters. They have an extensive international platform, probably one of the best in the region. So when it comes to complex cross-border work they are the go-to firm. The team stands for high quality, always in time and they keep the broader picture in mind. Team leader Michaela Stessl is very well-known but she also has a very talented team.’
‘Michaela Stessl is the go-to-person when it comes to complex finance work in the Slovakian market but also leading on a lot of cross-border mandates. She is very pleasant to work with, highly responsive, profound, and has a large network she can reach out to. She has an impressive track-record in international and local matters alike and is very good in negotiating in favor of her clients.’
Key clients
Berry Global Group (RPC Group)
WeBuild SpA/ Duha
GMM Pfaudler Limited
United States Steel Corporation
Wipro Limited
UniCredit Bank
Qualcomm Inc.
Unified Post Group
Fortive Corporation
IDEPS GmbH
Constantia Flexibles Holding GmbH
Tate & Lyle plc
Bodycote Slovakia s.r.o.
Tomra Sorting s.r.o.
Yanfeng Luxembourg Automotive
Gebauer & Griller Kabelwerkt GmbH
DS Smith Plc
Brockwell Capital Limited
BMI Group Management UK Ltd.
INC SpA
Bartosek Projektbetreuung Gmbh
UGI Corporation
First Data Corporation
Dover Corporation
Teleflex Incorporated
TSG Interactive Services Ltd
Corneliani SpA
Lampenwelt GmbH
Park County LLC
Rusatom Automated Control Systems
Standard Industries Inc. SHPP B.V.
PRK Partners s.r.o.
PRK Partners s.r.o. is active in bond issues and is regularly retained by banking groups to prepare and update standard derivative documentation. Elsewhere, other key workstreams include asset-based finance transactions and various commercial lending deals, primarily acting for overseas banking groups and their local subsidiaries. Martin Kříž, who leads the team, provides broad corporate, banking, finance and insurance experience. Also noted is attorney Eva Hromádková, who specialises in corporate law, commercial law and banking and finance.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Cintra/Ferrovial Porr Macquire
Commerzbank AG
ING Bank
HYPO NOE GRUPPE
UniCredit Bank
J&T IB & Capital Markets
Work highlights
- Advised the steering committee of the credit financiers of the Benteler Group, consisting of Commerzbank AG, DZ BANK AG, Erste Group Bank AG, Landesbank Baden-Württemberg, and Norddeutsche Landesbank as Slovak local counsel on the refinancing, which is part of a fundamental restructuring of Benteler Group.
RELEVANS Law Firm
Complementing its strength in drafting and negotiating contracts related to loans, mortgages, leasing and financing, RELEVANS Law Firm is strong in providing regulatory and operational advice to local and international banks in the Slovak Republic. The practice also handles the preparation and issuing of securities on capital markets, the admission of securities to trading on public markets and a range of transaction financing. Marián Masarik leads the team.
Practice head(s):
Marián Masarik
Other key lawyers:
Martina Vida; Michal Marhefka; Miroslava Zelenáková
Testimonials
‘Over the years, RELEVANS’ lawyers have shown that they have a very solid understanding of business and the surrounding legal framework. This has been a great asset to us. I can strongly recommend its services. They have an excellent overview of new legislation and trends.’
‘Marian Masarik, Martina Vida and Miroslava Zelenakova are valued partners in any legal matter and excellent lawyers at the same time. Marian Masarik is a clear professional, smart and strategic at the same time. Martina Vida and Miroslava Zelenakova are able to understand what is needed on both sides, their level of personalisation is above average and they can respond to any changeable matter quickly and effectively.’
‘We‘ve been working with Relevans lawyers for many years and have never been disappointed with their services. Their competence and experience have built lasting partnership. They have been continuously advising us in wide range of transactions. Namely, we can appreciate their high work pace and professional standards. Eventually we always receive professional, quick and complex advice.’
‘Relevans Law firm will be our first choice and we will continue to work with them any time in the future as their hard working team provides efficient legal services -they are consistently knowledgeable, very responding and open minded.’
‘The main strength of the team is their perfect capability to cover any transaction from its very beginning until its successful finalisation. They know our company, are aware of its goals and policy and understand it properly. They are very easy to communicate with.’
‘Fast reactions, flexible approach. They always find the right solution, but they are not too pushy. They always let me to think the case through.’
‘What is so special for me is that I can speak directly to the partners of Relevans. They are always reachable and ready to help.’
Key clients
J & T BANKA, a.s., pobočka zahraničnej banky
Poštová banka, a.s.
365. bank
Slovenská záručná a rozvojová banka
J&T REAL ESTATE, a.s.
EUROVEA, a.s.
CITY- ARENA PLUS, a.s.
SWAN a.s.
Sandberg Capital, správ. spol., a.s.
J&T FINANCE GROUP SE
X-BIONIC® SPHERE a.s.
Carlton Property, s. r. o.
RMS Mezzanine, a.s.
Westend Crossing, a.s.
Work highlights
- Comprehensive legal advice to debtor on the syndicated financing of the construction of the second phase of EUROVEA II shopping centre and administrative premises – one of the largest real estate loans in Slovakia in recent years.
- Complex legal advice to debtor on syndicated bank financing of construction of the 1st residential skyscraper in Slovakia.
- Comprehensive legal services to one of the largest banks in the Slovak Republic, in connection with the sale of a shareholding in an insurance company.
Ružička & Partners s.r.o.
Advising across the spectrum of financing and refinancing, Ružička & Partners s.r.o. offers expertise in payment services and payment institutions, as well as the regulatory aspects of banking and finance matters. Real estate and project finance and key strengths for the firm that also handles a range of cross-border issues and disputes in the area. Dana Nemčíková specialises in advising foreign financial institutions and insurance companies on investments, acquisitions and project restructurings. She co-leads the team with Ján Hanko, who was promoted to partner in 2021.
Practice head(s):
Dana Nemčíková; Ján Hanko
Key clients
OTP Bank Hungary
OTP Banka Slovensko a.s.
SVEL Group OOO “Rosenergotrans” (Russian Federation), ELEKTECH, s.r.o. (Slovakia), BEZ Group spol s.r.o. (Slovakia)
ERSTE group members
MOL Nyrt.
National Development Fund II
Vienna Insurance Group members
Volkswagen Financial Service
Raiffeisen Group
UniCredit Bank Group members
ING Bank
MetLife Europe, MetLife Slovakia
Starr Insurance Holdings, Inc.
AIG/Colonnade
KBC Bank NV
MCV CAP Beteiligung AG, Austria
Work highlights
- Legal services to National Development Fund II relating to implementation of special portfolio risk sharing loan tool used to promote financing of social activities. National Development Fund II is a governmental entity, which through the process of public procurement provides loan resources to its partners from financial sector for financing of social activities.
- Advising KBC Bank NV, a major financial player in Central and Eastern Europe, on a mandatory takeover bid and squeeze-out performed on a regulated market in respect of OTP Bank Slovakia, following its acquisition by KBC Bank.
- Advising global IT leader, IBM, on regulation of provision of trade loans, refinancing of receivables and other similar financial products to clients in Slovakia.
Schönherr Rechtstanwälte GmbH, o.z. (Schoenherr Slovakia)
Schönherr Rechtstanwälte GmbH, o.z. (Schoenherr Slovakia) handles restructuring, banking regulatory issues and payment services matters, with particular expertise in automotive and energy sector work. The firm is recommended for its ‘client-oriented approach and work ethic’. Soňa Hekelová, who leads the team, specialises in banking, debt refinancing, restructuring and M&A.
Practice head(s):
Soňa Hekelová
Testimonials
‘Their client-oriented approach and work ethic makes them really exceptional and compatible with our needs. We mostly work with Sona Hekelova – I found her to be an exceptional lawyer but to me personally it matters most that I can fully trust her. It is obvious that she invests a lot (of time and effort) into her clients and it shows in the work she performs.’
Key clients
Kongsberg Automotive ASA
Schur Flexibles Group
KommunalKredit Austria AG
LEONI AG
Erste Bank Group AG
Sberbank
Benteler Group
Bain Capital
Silbitz Group
Permira
Blackstone Group
Enery group
KBC group
Komerční banka (member of Societe Generale group)
Work highlights
- Advised Kongsberg Automotive ASA on the increase of a super senior revolving facility from an international syndicate of banks.
- Advised the Schur Flexibles group on matters related to a non-recourse factoring programme for the Slovak subsidiary.
- Advised KommunalKredit Austria AG as arranger and original lender on acquisition financing provided to Enery Development.
Squire Patton Boggs s.r.o.
Squire Patton Boggs s.r.o.'s team advises on a range of regulatory compliance issues related to finance transactions, such as those involving anti-money laundering, economic sanctions and counter-terrorism finance laws. On the transactional side, core areas of strength include trade receivables and factoring, real estate finance and acquisition finance. Elsewhere, the firm is active in the fintech area, where it generates mandates from high-growth tech-powered companies and fintech businesses. Practice head Danica Šebestová works with Silvia Belovičová.
Practice head(s):
Danica Šebestová
Other key lawyers:
Silvia Belovičová
Key clients
Československá obchodní banka a.s.
Eurofactor GmbH
Hanon Systems
Lordship a.s.
Work highlights
- Advise Banco Santander on Slovak law aspects of its factoring financing.
- Advised Československá obchodní banka, a.s. on its first series of green financings in the Slovak Republic.
Taylor Wessing Slovakia
Taylor Wessing Slovakia’s banking and finance practice has a particular focus on the financial services, insurance, real estate and retail sectors. It has notable experience of advising fintech start-ups on a range of matters. The practice is led by Silvia Hlavačková , whose experience includes the financing aspects of M&A, financial market regulatory issues, financial leasing, project finance and real estate finance transactions.
Practice head(s):
Silvia Hlavačková
Key clients
Tatra Asset Management, správ. spol., a.s.
Bloomreach Inc.
Cronos Invest j.s.a.
CENTRAL NIC GROUP PLC
Slovenská sporiteľňa, a.s. (member of the Erste Group)
Work highlights
- Advised Tatra Asset Management on its joint acquisition of Aupark together with WOOD & Company, the transaction leader from Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, including regulatory and compliance issues of the acquisition from the perspective of investment fund as well as on financing of the deal – Senior Facility to be provided by consortium of banks, and intra-group financing.
- Advised Bloomreach, the world’s leading Customer Data and Experience Platform, on its acquisition of Exponea, a customer data platform and marketing automation provider, through purchasing of all shares in the holding company of Exponea having subsidiaries in the USA, UK, Germany, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Poland and UAE, including the financing of the transaction via US based investment firms.
- Advised the shareholders of Impulse Leasing on the divestment of their shareholdings in Slovak subsidiary to Tatra Leasing, including matters relating to the so-called prior-approval to be granted by the Slovak National Bank in the course of the contemplated transaction.
Wolf Theiss
Wolf Theiss' team is active in sectors such real estate, energy, IT and manufacturing. Its banking work covers a range of transactions, such as those involving project finance, acquisition finance and securitisations. Elsewhere, the firm is instructed in debt capital markets transactions, such as notes issues and private placements. Robert David heads up the practice.
Practice head(s):
Robert David
Testimonials
‘Excellent team, seamless advice across jurisdictions and departments of banking and tax, very knowledgeable with practical advice for client on how to navigate risks and pitfalls. Very approachable and commercially-minded team.’
Key clients
Kommunalkredit Austria AG
Erste Group Bank
Work highlights
- Advising Kommunalkredit Austria on the project financing of 65 MW solar portfolio of five ready-to-build solar PV plants.
- Advising Erste Group Erste Group Bank, Erste Bank Croatia and Ceska Sporitelna and Slovenska Sporitelna on the establishment of a multi-issuer programme for the issuance of notes for MREL and own funds purposes.
Advokátska kancelária MCL, s.r.o.
Prominent in both domestic and cross-border transactions, Advokátska kancelária MCL, s.r.o. is active in matters involving acquisition finance, bilateral and syndicated loans, and real estate finance, among other areas. The practice is jointly led by Martin Jurečko and senior associate Simona Rapavá, who collectively have more than 30 years of experience in this space.
Practice head(s):
Martin Jurečko; Simona Rapavá
Key clients
MiddleCap Group
Reinoo
UniCredit Bank
Metalimex
Railtrans International
GGT
Pavol Jakubec
Work highlights
- Advised Pavol Jakubec on structuring and bankability of the acquisition of 50% stake in IDC Holding, the largest biscuit producer in Slovakia.
- Advised MiddleCap Real Estate Ltd. on all aspects of acquisition, reconstruction, development and lettings of SPILKA office project in Bratislava, including financing and creation of security package.
- Advised MiddleCap on design and construction and financing of new build commercial office scheme at Rushworth Street, Southwark London.
Beatow Partners s.r.o
Beatow Partners s.r.o’s strengths include handling acquisition finance, real estate finance and bond finance transactions, as well as advising foreign financial institutions on Slovakian regulations and compliance. The firm has particular sector expertise in life sciences, food and beverages, retail and manufacturing. Oliver Weber leads the team.
Practice head(s):
Oliver Weber
Testimonials
‘The team is professional and skilled.’
bnt attorneys in CEE
The banking and finance team of bnt attorneys in CEE is part of a wider cross-office network that provides advisory services across ten CEE jurisdictions. The group is recommended for its ‘knowledge of the industry and further willingness to study and research of new regulations directives’. Margareta Sovova leads the practice, which recently acted for clients on licence applications to the National Bank of Slovakia, as well as the financing of land acquisition projects, in addition to advising lenders on risk management issues.
Practice head(s):
Margareta Sovova
Testimonials
‘Bnt attorneys Slovakia partners and associates are very open minded and listen very carefully to your initial requests. They prepare a project plan content timeline, which is checked by all parties on regular basis. They offer the possibility to split the billing so that each project period is completed with a partial billing. Not to forget – we had no problems whatsoever with the COVID restrictions as most of the communications apart from the initial meetings took place via conference calls and the staff were available even within the not pre-arranged times.’
‘The main quality is the attitude and willingness to have the work done in timely manner. We also appreciate the actual process, which was checked on via from both parties – bnt and us an online timeline. The partners’ strengths are the overall management of the project and its partial deadlines. Main strengths of the co-working associates are knowledge of the industry and further willingness to study and research new regulations directives.’
Key clients
Slovak Investment Services s.r.o.
IN-EQUITY Slovakia s.r.o.
Hoffmann & Co. GmbH
SH DEVELOPMENT s. r. o.
Raiffeisenlandesbank NÖ-Wien AG
Raiffeisenbank Region Amstetten eGen
Raiffeisen-Regionalbank Gänserndorf eGen
Work highlights
- Advising IN-EQUITY Slovakia, o.c.p., a.s. on the process of obtaining a licence from the National Bank of Slovakia to provide investment services as a securities trader
- Advising Slovak Investment Services s.r.o. on regulatory and commercial matters and matters concerning obtaining a license by the Slovak National Bank for provision of investment services in Slovakia
- Advising Hoffmann & Co. GmbH, a German underwriting agent, on entering on the Slovak financial market and creating a concept of doing business under Slovak Act on financial intermediation
bpv Braun Partners s.r.o., o.z.
bpv Braun Partners s.r.o., o.z.‘s team has experience of a wide range of financing matters, including asset finance, project finance and lease transactions. It also has a particular specialism in regulatory issues. David Vosol co-heads the practice with Igor Augustinič and Arthur Braun.
Practice head(s):
David Vosol; Igor Augustinič; Arthur Braun
Testimonials
‘Igor Augustinic & his team: exceptionally responsive and efficient; strong focus on the issues; pragmatic and solution-oriented approach; memos provide in-depth analysis and clear results that can be used as a basis to act upon. Absolutely top level advice and service in every respect.’
Key clients
BAWAG Leasing
Hypo-Bank Burgenland
Interchange
Raiffeisen Niederösterreich-Wien
Raiffeisen-Landesbanken
Sun Contracting
Deloitte Legal s. r. o.
Deloitte Legal s. r. o. is known for its work in the banking and finance industry in relation to data protection, particularly the creation of a methodology and interactive tool for a Data Protection Impact Assessment for one of the biggest banks in the market. Another specialism sees it advising insurance companies on the distribution of investment-based insurance products. Dagmar Yoder co-leads the team with Róbert Minachin.
Practice head(s):
Dagmar Yoder; Róbert Minachin
Testimonials
‘Our cooperation was very positive, Deloitte Legal has shown not only the technical knowledge, but also the business and client oriented approach. They have shown flexibility and fast responses to our requests.’
‘Deloitte Legal provided complex legal assistance with respect to the amendment while considering all potential risks arising therefrom and all regulatory aspects considering the involvement of financial institutions. I highly appreciate active approach of the law firm with respect to solving various problems, offering business-oriented solutions and providing technical knowledge – not only in the transaction mentioned above, but generally – in all advisory services provided.’
‘Their flexibility, dedication and professionalism are what I consider as the main added value of our cooperation. I’m very satisfied with the services provided by Deloitte Legal.’
Key clients
Powszechna Kasa Oszczędności Bank Polski S.A.
Prvá stavebná sporiteľňa, a. s.
U. S. Steel Košice, s.r.o.
PKO Leasing
KOOPERATIVA poisťovňa, a.s. Vienna Insurance Group
KOMUNÁLNA poisťovňa, a.s. Vienna Insurance Group
VÚB a.s.
Work highlights
- Advising Powszechna Kasa Oszczędności Bank Polski S.A. on the set-up and opening of a branch of the largest Polish bank in the Slovak Republic.
- Advising U. S. Steel Košice, s.r.o. on collateral matters related to the substantial amendment of a revolving banking loan provided to the client via a syndicated loan agreement with multiple internationals banking institutions.
- Advising Bank Pekao S.A. on the evaluation of rail purchase car agreements related to the financing and preparation of a general overview of the borrower´s rights and obligations under the rail purchase agreement and their impact on financing itself.
Eversheds Sutherland, advokátska kancelária, s.r.o.
The broad practice at Eversheds Sutherland, advokátska kancelária, s.r.o. covers a varied workload, including acquisition finance, syndicated finance, export finance, project finance and real estate finance transactions, as well as licensing matters. Team head Bernhard Hager is experienced in advising industrial sector clients on corporate, energy and infrastructure projects, as well as construction and public procurement law issues.
Practice head(s):
Bernhard Hager
Key clients
Raiffeisenbank Region Waldviertel Mitte eingetr. G m b H
Hillbridges
Hillbridges focuses on providing banking and finance advice to clients in the energy, infrastructure, real estate, food and beverages, aviation and chemicals sectors. Its group specialises in distressed asset finance arrangements in the real estate sector, and also has experience of bilateral loans, syndicated financings and bond issues. Zuzana Bartošovičová co-leads the team with Miroslav Trenčan.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
Austrian Anadi Bank
NOVIS
SmartHead Co.
Noerr
Noerr's practice generates mandates from clients such as local and international credit institutions, investment funds, leasing institutions and corporates. It is particularly strong in advising clients from German-speaking countries, including those operating in the automotive, financial services, telecommunications, manufacturing and real estate industries. Tomáš Záborský heads up the practice, which is active in acquisition finance, project finance and corporate finance transactions, among other matters.
Practice head(s):
Tomáš Záborský
Key clients
Allianz Real Estate GmbH
Volkswagen Slovakia
Manitowoc Crane Group
Aweco Appliances Slovakia
Deutsche Telekom
Deutsche Postbank AG
BNP Paribas
UniCredit Bank Austria AG
Soravia Gruppe
Nordea Bank Danmark A/S
KeyBank National Association
Deutsche Bank AG
Deutsche Schule Bratislava
N26 Mobile Bank
Paul Q Law Firm
Paul Q Law Firm's portfolio of work covers acquisition finance, real estate finance, project finance and syndicated lending transactions. The firm also assists clients with debt restructuring and refinancing, as well as regulatory matters. Jiří Budinský jointly leads the team with Eduard Winkler, who has experience of advising Slovak and international clients.
Practice head(s):
Jiří Budinský; Eduard Winkler
Key clients
Banca IMI
KRUK Czech and Slovak Republic
ZFP Akadémia
PETERKA & PARTNERS
PETERKA & PARTNERS represents banks and other financial institutions in licensing and administrative proceedings before supervisory authorities, in addition to providing regulatory advice on their day-to-day activities. Elsewhere, export finance transactions are another key area of strength. Lubomir Lesko heads up the practice.
Practice head(s):
Lubomir Lesko
Key clients
Anteos
Bibby Financial Services
Icebear NV
RCI Finance SK
Wüstenrot stavebná sporiteľňa
Work highlights
- Advising Bibby Financial Services, a major UK invoice finance company, on a matter related to extension of back-to-back receivables finance facility to Bibby group subsidiaries in Europe provided by HSBC for the purpose of financing the client’s activities in Europe.
- Advising Wüstenrot stavebná sporiteľňa, a building society belonging to the Austrian-based Wüstenrot Group, a provider of financial services and insurance in the area of banking/financial law.
- Legal services to Anteos concerning the Slovak legal regulation of various aspects of cryptocurrencies.
Škubla & Partneri s.r.o.
Project finance is a stand out area for Škubla & Partneri s.r.o., which is also noted for its coverage of a range of capital markets matters, including the issuance and transfer of securities. In addition, the firm advises on banking regulation related to prudential requirements for capital adequacy, as well as the acquisition of banks. Marián Šulík is the main contact.
Practice head(s):
Marián Šulík
Testimonials
‘Very capable local counsel and my go to choice for all projects in Slovakia. Not pretentious, hard working and responsive. They understand both law and service business.’
‘Marian Sulik is great to work with, very engaged and insightful.’
Key clients
Penta Investments
Penta Real Estate
SKY PARK OFFICES
SKY PARK RESIDENCES
Privatbanka
Bory Mall, a.s.
eMeM, spol. s r.o.
Prima banka Slovensko
Grupo Antolin
ECE Investment
Dubravka Development
Bory Home
Work highlights
- Acted as legal counsels of Bory Home III and Bory Home II, the borrower, in connection with real estate development cumulative €60m development loans for new residential city district in western part of Bratislava.
- Providing legal advice to SKY PARK OFFICES, the borrower, in connection with office development financing for real estate development project (major office building in city centre in Bratislava).
- Acted as legal counsels of Grupo Antolin, Spanish car parts manufacturing company, in connection with bond issuance covering Slovak jurisdiction.
Stentors
Stentors' team has experience of syndicated loans, leveraged finance transactions and loan restructurings, among other matters. Clients include Slovak banking houses, leasing companies and financial institutions, as well as creditors and VC funds, real estate developers and construction companies. Michal Hulena is the head of the team.
Practice head(s):
Michal Hulena
Other key lawyers:
Erik Schvab; Andrea Obuchová
Testimonials
‘What makes Stentors unique is their excellent knowledge of the practice area of banking, finance and capital markets in combination with their inexhaustible experience in the real world. The accuracy of providing the legal information required makes us choose them again and again because they are people we can count on.’
‘In my view one of the best law firms in Slovakia.’
‘Michal Hulena – such a knowledgeable partner with hands-on approach. Erik Schvab – very talented associate!! Andrea Obuchová – very talented associate!!’
Key clients
ADVENA MANAGEMENT
UNICREDIT BANK
UNICREDIT LEASING
CORD BLOOD CENTER
Work highlights
- Advising ADVENA MANAGEMENT (a hedge fund manager) on establishing an alternative investment fund (SICAV) in Slovakia and a hedge fund in the British Virgin Islands.
- Representing UniCredit Bank as one of the secured lenders in bankruptcy proceedings against its borrower (a producer of electricity from biomass) in respect of the enforcement of provided loan facilities in the amount of more than €4m.