Rising Stars

Manu Ferro – Pestalozzi

Firms To Watch: Banking and finance: Zurich

burckhardt Ltd‘s Zurich office has seen steady expansion since the recruitment of team lead Janusz Marty in 2016. The team handles a range of financing transactions with particular knowledge of cross-border work.

Firms in the Spotlight Banking and finance: Zurich

VISCHER

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VISCHER is a leading Swiss law firm with over 120 fee earners. The firm provides solution-oriented support in all aspects of commercial, tax, and regulatory law. Their experts are organized in more than 20 practice teams, each led by experienced partners.

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Banking and finance: Zurich in Switzerland

Bär & Karrer Ltd.

Bär & Karrer Ltd. advises high-profile domestic and international clients, including banks, asset managers, and other financial institutions. The team is active across regulatory issues and a range of financing matters, including debt financings, acquisition financings, securitisation issues and restructuring transactions. Core names within the team include Eric Stupp, who handles regulatory matters and enforcement proceedings, Ralph Malacrida, whose practice includes structured and acquisition finance work, and internal investigations practice group head Andreas Länzlinger. Capital markets expert Lukas Roesler is another key contact, as are Peter Hsu, who has expertise in insurance and financing work, and Daniel Flühmann, who focuses on fintech matters.

Other key lawyers:

Joel Fischer


Testimonials

‘Bär & Karrer’s team is always ready to help, and they are very approachable. They are key partners of our firm, and we owe a debt of gratitude to them for the excellent service they provide. They are all amazing attorneys who practice nothing but the best client care methods.’

‘They are all extremely knowledgeable and competent attorneys who always have my firm’s best interests in mind. They are very dedicated and through at their work. We appreciate their pragmatism, quick thinking, and great analytical skills. They are all exceptional people, both professionally and personally.’

‘Bär & Karrer Ltd. is a law firm that provides highly professional legal services. The needs of the client are clarified holistically and the facts of the case are analysed precisely. The following legal advice is professional, comprehensible, and implementable in practice.’

‘Peter Hsu is a long-term partner at Bär & Karrer Ltd. who has deep knowledge of the financial services industry. Thanks to his expertise, the legal advice he provides focuses on the important topics, which makes the implementation of the advice easy.’

Key clients

Quaestor Coach


UBS AG


Axpo Holding AG


Bitcoin Suisse AG


Credit Suisse


Goldman Sachs


Rothschild Bank AG


Cembra Money Bank AG


Morgan Stanley International, London, Zurich Branch


Work highlights


  • Advising UBS on the sale of UBS Swiss Financial Advisers to Vontobel.
  • Advised Axpo Holding AG on a €2.5bn sustainability linked credit facilities agreement with a broad international consortium of banks, led by ING as sole coordinator.
  • Advising Quaestor Coach on the acquisition of Swiss Asset Manager Diem Client Partner

Homburger

Homburger has expertise across the full spectrum of banking and finance matters, and caters to a client list which includes numerous large banks and blue-chip companies. The team has a particular focus on structured products, and advises clients such as Credit Suisse, J.P. Morgan and Goldman Sachs on domestic and pan-European issuances. Team head Benedikt Maurenbrecher, who has over 25 years’ experience in the practice area, handles regulatory matters and financing transactions. Other core team members include Jürg Frick, whose focus is on syndicated debt and structured financing work, and financing expert Benjamin Leisinger. Also key are René Bösch, Stefan Kramer and Daniel Haeberli.

Practice head(s):

Benedikt Maurenbrecher


Key clients

UBS


Credit Suisse


Roche


SIX (Switzerland’s principal stock exchange)


Goldman Sachs


Morgan Stanley


J.P. Morgan


State Street Bank and Trust Company


Bank Julius Bär


AMAG Leasing


Pictet


Bank J. Safra Sarasin


ADC Therapeutics


Citigroup


Amber


Hashdex


Luzerner Kantonalbank


Union Bancaire Privée


Swiss Prime Site


Zurich Insurance Company


Aris Gold


21Shares


Kering


The co-ordinating-committee of ED&F Man’s senior creditors


Work highlights


  • Advised Roche Holding on financing of its $20.7bn repurchase of Novartis’ stake
  • Advising international banks as thought leader on the world’s largest market for structured products, with an annual investment volume of more than $330bn.
  • Advised Kering on the financing and refinancing of its sale of the iconic Swiss watch manufacturers Girard-Perregaux and Ulysse Nardin.

Lenz & Staehelin

Lenz & Staehelin‘s ‘efficient and solution-oriented’ team covers the full range of banking and finance work, with expertise in both transactional and regulatory matters. The department has a strong international focus, with multinational clients such as Citibank, Deutsche Bank and HSBC. Team lead Marcel Tranchet has a broad practice which includes handling syndicated financings, acquisition finance work and project finance issues, in addition to regulatory matters. Patrick Hünerwadel covers structured and lease financings, asset securitisations and derivatives work, while Stefan Breitenstein handles financial regulatory matters. Patrick Schleiffer, who has expertise in capital markets, is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Marcel Tranchet


Testimonials

‘Outstanding expertise and expert knowledge.’

‘Efficient and solution-oriented.’

‘Very pragmatic and very commercial, but supported by first-class legal analyses.’

‘Marcel Tranchet has a sharp legal mind while maintaining an appropriate level of business acumen and pragmatism. I really like to work with him.’

‘Extremely strong finance practice under the lead of Marcel Tranchet.’

‘Marcel Tranchet is a tough negotiator, principled and adamant.’

‘Great experience with legal framework. Experienced in dealing with regulators.’

‘Down to earth people going the extra mile knowing the business in depth.’

Key clients

ABN AMRO


Ares Life Sciences / Waypoint


Arxada


Aviva Investors Global Services


Bain Capital


Banque Lombard Odier & Cie SA


Banque Syz SA


BigPoint Holding AG


BNP Paribas Group


Barclays Bank


Chequers Capital


Cinven


Citibank Group


Clariant


Crédit Agricole


Credit Suisse


Deutsche Bank


Edmond de Rothschild Group


Equistone Partners


Eurofima


FINControl Suisse


Geberit


Goldman Sachs


Hilti


Heubach


HSBC


INEOS


ING Bank


ISDA


Itau Group


J.P. Morgan


LafargeHolcim


Macquarie Group


Mediclinic


Neuberger Berman Europe Limited


New York Digital Investment Group


ODDHO BHF


OROX Asset Management


Pargesa Holding SA


Pensionskasse SBB


Pictet Group


Rabobank


Raiffeisen Bank


REHAU


Reyl & Cie


Rivean Capital (formerly Gilde Buy Out Partners)


Saxobank


Sempione Fashion AG


Sika AG


SIX Swiss Exchange


SK Capital


Société Générale


SoftwareONE


Stadler Rail


Stallergenes Greer


Stratéo


Swissquote Bank SA


UBP


UBS


Unigestion S.A.


Valora


Varo


VTG Aktiengesellschaft


Zehnder


Work highlights


  • Advised Sika AG on the financing of CHF5.5bn acquisition of MBCC Group.
  • Acted as counsel to the lenders of the inaugural €1bn sustainability-linked financing for SGS.
  • Acted as counsel to Bain Capital and Cinven on all matters of Swiss law in connection with the acquisition of Lonza Specialty Ingredients for an enterprise value of CHF4.2bn.

Niederer Kraft Frey AG

Niederer Kraft Frey AG advises leading banks and financial institutions on the full range of matters, with expertise across financing and regulatory matters, in addition to expertise in banking and insolvency litigation. The firm benefits from close relationships with regulatory authorities, and frequently plays an active role in the development of new legislation. Lead partner Sandro Abegglen has a strong reputation as a regulatory lawyer, with further expertise in contentious matters. Bertrand Schott and Adrian Koller are core team members, with Schott bringing experience in financial regulations and contractual work, while Koller specialises in financing transactions, including those with cross-border elements. Marco Häusermann and Philippe Weber are key names, as is Philip Spoerlé, who joined from Baker McKenzie Switzerland AG in January 2022.

Practice head(s):

Sandro Abegglen


Testimonials

‘Commercially minded and always available.’

‘Adrian Koller provides timely and appropriate advice, keeps it simple and does not overcomplicate or take too much time.’

Key clients

UBS Switzerland AG,


Credit Suisse (Switzerland) Ltd.


Zürcher Kantonalbank


Bank Julius Bär


Deutsche Bank


International Capital Market Association (ICMA) and International Securities Lending Association (ISLA)


Morgan Stanley


Goldman Sachs


Blackstone


CoinShares


ED&F Man


Work highlights


  • Advised UBS Switzerland AG and Credit Suisse (Switzerland) Ltd. on the one hand and Zürcher Kantonalbank and further cantonal banks on the other hand, on the landmark refinancing of Swiss Prime Site’s existing bank mortgages.
  • Advised the arrangers on all Swiss law and tax aspects for the financing of Bain and Cinven for the acquisition of Lonza’s Specialty Ingredients (now called Arxada), a division of Lonza AG (a Swiss headquartered listed company), for an enterprise value of CHF4.2bn consisting of a combination of credit and sustainability-linked notes issuances.
  • Advised the bank syndicate, including Zürcher Kantonalbank, acting as arranger and agent, Credit Suisse, acting as arranger and security agent, and UBS, acting as arranger, on the acquisition financing of Aebi Schmidt Group for its acquisition of Monroe Truck Equipment.

Baker McKenzie Switzerland AG

Baker McKenzie Switzerland AG‘s Zurich office covers the full spectrum of banking and finance products, and has particular strength in regulatory matters. The firm’s global network makes it a popular choice for clients acting at the international level, in addition to high-profile domestic clients. Samuel Marbacher co-leads the team alongside Markus Wolf, who was promoted to partner in 2022. Also key are Lukas Glanzmann, who handles credit facilities, restructurings, and capital markets related matters, and Ansgar Schott, who has expertise in regulatory mandates.

Practice head(s):

Samuel Marbacher; Markus Wolf


Other key lawyers:

Lukas Glanzmann; Ansgar Schott


Key clients

UBS AG / UBS Switzerland AG


Credit Suisse AG / Credit Suisse (Schweiz) AG


Canton of Geneva


Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank (CA-CIB)


Ambienta Capital


Rabobank


Deutsche Beteiligungs AG (DBAG)


Ufenau Capital Partners


UniCredit Bank AG


Aareal Bank


Quilvest (Switzerland) AG


IG Bank SA


Arbonia AG


Clariant AG


Argo-Hytos Group


Fundamenta Real Estate AG


Allied World Group


Walter Meier AG


Commerzbank Aktiengesellschaft


LGT Bank AG


RRJ Capital


CSA Energy Infrastructure Switzerland


MET Group


Helvetica Capital


Yorkville Advisors


Zürcher Kantonalbank


Raiffeisen


Cimpress plc


Duagon Holding AG


Société Générale


Deposit Solutions GmbH


ING Bank N.V.


Bank Julius Baer


Edyn Group


CoinShares


Work highlights


  • Advised UBS Switzerland AG as sole Swiss legal counsel on the switch from LIBOR to risk-free rates in its Swiss-law-governed syndicated credit facility agreements with UBS Switzerland AG acting as agent.
  • Acted for BNP Paribas and Deutsche Bank in connection with their approximately CHF19bn bridge facility for Roche Holding Ltd.
  • Assisted Zürcher Kantonalbank and Credit Suisse (Switzerland) Ltd. with a CHF900m refinancing for Viseca group through an innovative bilateral financing structure.

Kellerhals Carrard

Kellerhals Carrard‘s sizeable banking and finance practice group has expertise across a broad spread of areas, including retail and private banking issues, financial products, and asset management work. Lead partner Cornelia Stengel focuses on financial services regulations, and is a notable thought leader in fintech related matters. Dominik Oberholzer is highly active in the asset management industry, and Luca Bianchi specialises in complex debt capital market transactions and financial products. Isabelle Romy is the key name for litigation.

Practice head(s):

Cornelia Stengel


Testimonials

‘The team under the leadership of Cornelia Stengel is reachable and reverts back with a first assessment in a short time. Their broad knowledge in banking and financial services paired with deep technical knowledge makes working with the team interesting and efficient.’

‘Cornelia Stengel clearly stands out given her deep knowledge and expertise in technical as well as financial matters. She is a fast thinker and her work always of high value and quality.’

Key clients

UBS AG


Swiss FinTech Innovations


One Swiss Bank


Franklin Templeton Group


DWS


Man Group plc


TWINT AG


Macquarie Group


Vaudoise Assurances Holding SA


Ypsomed Holding AG


Credit Suisse AG


Work highlights


  • Assisting Man Group plc with the set-up of up to 10 new Irish/Luxembourg sub-funds and registration with Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA.
  • Advising UBS AG with regard to all aspects of Swiss law for the set-up, registration with the Swiss regulator and listing at SIX Swiss Exchange of listed and non-listed funds (in total approx. 150 funds).

Pestalozzi

Pestalozzi‘s ‘thoughtful and sophisticated’ team handles the full range of banking and finance matters. The department is highly active across transactions and regulatory issues, with experience in high-profile and cross-border matters. The team is co-led by banking, finance and capital markets specialist Oliver Widmer and Sébastien Roy, who is based in the Geneva office. The ‘outstanding’ Andrea Huber, whose broad practice includes asset management work, regulatory matters and fintech issues, is another key name. Associate Manu Ferro is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Oliver Widmer; Sébastien Roy


Other key lawyers:

Andrea Huber; Manu Ferro; Urs Klöti


Testimonials

‘The team at Pestalozzi is extremely proactive and more like an in-house legal team than an exterior legal service provider. They are utmost customer friendly and open for any difficult questions we had. It has been a true pleasure working with this company.’

‘We worked with Andrea Huber and her team at Pestalozzi who were outstanding in providing very specialised legal work in a regulatory matter. Andrea very quickly understood the way we work and tick and became like a very close co-worker we had been working forever.’

‘The personal touch, attention to detail combined with strong knowledge makes you comfortable that you will be assisted in a swift and efficient way.’

‘Oliver Widmer is the key member in the banking and finance team. He not only has very good technical knowledge, he also offers a pragmatic approach, good communication skills and good connection to the supervisory authorities.’

‘The Pestalozzi team stands out for its ability to take something extremely complicated and translate that into clear guidance which also commercially makes sense. Also, they are thoughtful and sophisticated. The team is just superb and available 24/7. They are all very professional, knowledgeable and engaged.’

‘Andrea Huber is one of the pre-eminent financial services regulatory and investment funds experts and well-placed with the regulator and industry bodies, with a very good sense about the issues that are important to the regulator.’

‘In terms of quality, the team belongs to the best in the market. They have excellent relations to the regulator, give clear guidance and are extremely client focused. I have endless confidence in the Pestalozzi team. They are pragmatic, always very responsive and timely with their advice, even outside office hours.’

‘Andrea Huber‘s breadth of knowledge across funds and the regulatory sector is unique. She is super quick, a problem solver and very well-connected in the community. Andrea is a brilliant lawyer who rolls up her sleeves and stays calm, no matter how strong the pressure is.’

Key clients

Bank of America


Banque Cantonale de Genève


Barclays Capital


Blackstone Credit


Citibank


Clarion Partners


Cott Beverages


Credit Suisse


Deutsche Bank


DNM Swiss AG


European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)


Gazprombank


Goldman Sachs


Glencore


ING


International Finance Corporation


JP Morgan


Kreos Capital VI (UK) Limited


Metinvest International SA


Noble Corporation


River Rock


Saxo Bank (Schweiz) AG


UBS


UniCredit Bank AG


Welltec International ApS


Zürcher Kantonalbank (ZKB)


Work highlights


  • Advised the financing bank Bank of America on the Swiss law aspects on the finance transaction in relation to a public tender offer to acquire all publicly held shares in Vifor.
  • Advised the Swiss company of Tupperware as the main borrower in relation to a financing in excess of $1bn.
  • Advising Glencore on Swiss law aspects in a $5bn revolving syndicated facilities agreement with Barclays as Arranger and Agent and Glencore International AG as Borrower, Glencore PLC, Glencore (Schweiz) AG and Glencore International AG as Guarantors.

Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd

Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd fields a strong regulatory team, with experience advising domestic and international banks, investment businesses, insurance companies, and other financial institutions, across a broad range of matters. The department also handles a diverse set of transactions, including syndicated loan facilities and structured finance transactions. Philippe Borens, who has expertise in regulatory issues, leads the team, which includes ‘elite lawyer’ Anita Schläpfer, and Martin Lanz, whose practice spans syndicated loans, bond issuances, and the establishment of financial intermediaries. Also key are Olivier Favre, who specialises in financing and capital markets transactions, and Caroline Clemetson, who covers investment products and financial regulations.

Practice head(s):

Philippe Borens


Testimonials

‘Very organised, client focused teams.’

‘Business oriented approach, focused on outcomes and on understanding client’s specific needs and goals.’

‘SW is an elite Swiss firm that needs no introduction.’

‘Anita Schläpfer is an elite lawyer with a very approachable attitude, this is a nice combination that is quite rare.’

Key clients

Alpian SA


Arsenal Capital Partners


Bank Itau (Suisse) SA


Bank Julius Baer


Banque Thaler


Bank Vontobel


Barclays Bank PLC


BNP Paribas


Bonhôte Immobilier


China Construction Bank


Computershare / Equatex


Credit Suisse


Crypto Fund AG


Deutsche Bank SA


Diamond Capital Management (Switzerland) Ltd


EFG Bank


Emeram


e-GTSA S. A


Futures Industry Association (FIA)


Global Funds SA


Helvetische Bank AG


HSBC Private Bank (Suisse)


International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA)


Leonteq


Landolt Investment SICAV


Lennox International


Mirabaud & Cie SA


Nord Anglia Education


Oxford Finance LLC


Pierer Mobility AG


Primeo Holding


Procimmo SA


Raiffeisen Switzerland


Reichmuth Investment Management AG


Reuss Private Group AG


Schroder & Co Bank


Standard Chartered


Swiss Bankers Association (SBA)


UBP


UBS


Work highlights


  • Acted as co-lead counsel to Arsenal Capital and ATP Group on negotiating and implementing substantial secured syndicated credit facilities with UBS Switzerland as arranger, agent and security agent.
  • Advised Aldo Group International AG on the successful completion of its Swiss composition proceedings and the exit financing.
  • Acted as counsel to the Swiss Bankers Association (SBA) for the preparation of its documentation in view of the transition from LIBOR rates to alternative risk-free rates.

Walder Wyss Ltd.

Walder Wyss Ltd.’s team is particularly strong in lending and structured finance transactions, and is active at the international level for a range of high-profile clients. Co-leading the team is regulatory and fintech expert Thomas Müller, Lukas Wyss, who specialises in domestic and cross-border finance transactions, and Theodor Härtsch, who focuses on leveraged finance, syndicated lending, and structured finance work. Other core team members include Luc Defferrard, Johannes Bürgi, and David Borer, who joined from Homburger in July 2022. Associate Roger Ammann has experience in asset based financings.

Key clients

UBS Switzerland AG


UBS AG


Credit Suisse (Switzerland) Ltd. and Credit Suisse AG


Zürcher Kantonalbank


Cembra Money Bank


Raiffeisen Schweiz Genossenschaft


Valiant Bank AG


Migros Bank AG


Equatex


Deutsche Private Equity


Naxicap


Ufenau Capital Partners


AMAG Leasing AG


Swisscard AECS AG


Work highlights


  • Advised medmix Ltd. (a company listed on the SIX stock exchange and a spin-off of Sulzer) in connection with its inaugural multi-million syndicated credit financing.
  • Advised PostFinance on its cooperation with Swissquote relating to the digital banking app Yuh.
  • Advised UBS Switzerland AG and Credit Suisse (Switzerland) Ltd. as mandated lead arrangers on the €250m financing of Guess Europe.

Advestra

Advestra, founded in 2020, advises clients on complex transactional matters, financing mandates, and regulatory issues. The firm acts on high-profile work for domestic and international clients, including handling a CHF2.6bn refinancing for Swiss Prime Site. Key names within the team include regulatory expert Rashid Bahar, capital markets specialist Sandro Fehlmann, and Alexander von Jeinsen, whose practice includes financing transactions and restructurings. Associate Annina Hammer is a name to watch.

Testimonials

‘I rarely experience a more efficient lawyer delivering such high quality.’

‘Sandro Fehlman is a very business oriented, hard-working and efficient lawyer. My lawyer of choice for executing deals.’

‘Profound knowledge of legal aspects of capital markets from privately placed bonds to public tender offers and bridge financing of such public tender offers.’

Key clients

Swiss Prime Site


Aebi Schmidt


Viseca


Falcon Private AG


XP Inc.


Swiss Re


Swisspearl Group


UBS


Credit Suisse


Patrimonium


Work highlights


  • Advised Swiss Prime Site on a comprehensive refinancing.
  • Advised Swisspearl on the financing of the acquisition of Cembrit.
  • Advised Falcon Private AG on the winding down of its business.

CMS von Erlach Partners Ltd.

CMS von Erlach Partners Ltd.‘s Zurich office advises financial institutions, funds, industrial enterprises and other companies on the full range of banking and finance matters. The team has particular strength in cross-border matters, and benefits from the firm’s international network of offices. Kaspar Landolt leads the team, and has more than 20 years experience in acquisition finance, corporate lending, and asset finance work. Key contacts within the team include André E Lebrecht and Tina Balzli, as well as counsel Dominique Gemperli.

Practice head(s):

Kaspar Landolt


Testimonials

‘We were extremely impressed by the reactivity, the ability to understand commercial and strategic stakes, and to advise on innovative solutions in a timely manner.’

‘On top of first-class legal expertise, a strong business acumen and the ability to formulate out-of-the-box and tailor-made solutions for clients. Very reactive and efficient. Very personable team.’

‘The law firm goes an extra mile for the satisfaction of its clients. An “all-around carefree package”.’

‘Kaspar Landolt is an exceptional lawyer with an extremely high legal expertise and very pleasant to work with.’

MLL Legal

MLL Legal‘s 2021 merger combined the teams of Meyerlustenberger Lachenal and Froriep, resulting in a significant new team. Areas of expertise for the department encompass financing structures, securities issues, asset management work and regulatory matters. The ‘knowledgeable, always accessible, and very business minded’ Daniel Schoch co-leads alongside Catrina Luchsinger Gaehwiler, who advises a range of clients on regulatory matters, with additional experience across acquisition and project financings. Other key names within the team include Alexander Vogel, Dunja Koch, Karin Oberlin and Reto Luthiger.

Testimonials

‘MLL’s Banking and Fintech practice has a multidisciplinary team with a deep understanding of the blockchain/crypto space, Swiss regulation, and industry standards.’

‘Reto Luthiger – a top regulation expert with a broad view of the crypto market and a deep understanding of Swiss regulation. Karin Oberlin – highly skilled in all corporate matters, very responsive, and connected.’

‘Thanks to the merger between Meyerlustenberger Lachenal and Floriep we now benefit from a large group of very skilled and specialised partners and associates. As the firm is fully integrated, we are always referred to the best specialist and the partners really work as one team.’

‘Daniel Schoch is a great attorney to work with. He is very knowledgeable, always accessible, and very business minded. He not only provides sound legal advice, but always keeps the business aspects in mind and has a pragmatic and solution-oriented approach to legal issues.’

‘Experienced in cross-border transactions with a view for potential pitfalls and risks.’

‘MLL provide clear and appropriate advice, and are always on hand to help us with Swiss law issues.’

‘The team is very knowledgeable and always views legal issues in the commercial context in which they arise.’

‘Dunja Koch is super knowledgeable and balances well the ever-present challenge of providing detailed legal advice in light of the commercial objectives of the client. She is always responsive and available to assist.’

Key clients

ABC Maritime SA


FTX


Argentem Creek Partners LP


Backed Finance Ltd and Backed Assets Ltd


Bank of America


Bellevue Group


bfw holding ag


Bitcoin (Suisse) AG


Capiton AG


Central Real Estate Holding AG and Central Real Estate Basel AG


Claritis SA


Credit Agricole


Crypto Finance AG


Dogus Group


EuroChem Group AG


European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)


Global Jet Capital


Hayfin Capital Management LLP


INOKS Capital SA


ING Bank


Julius Baer Group Ltd


Oaktree Capital Management


OTP Bank Plc


SEBA Bank AG


Standard Bank


Standard Chartered Bank


Swiss Bridge Capital


TWINT


UniCredit Bank


Verifort Capital Services AG


Zurich Airport


Ares Invest SA


Work highlights


  • Advised FTX Crypto Exchange, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange valued at $32bn, on the establishment and launch of FTX Europe, thereby assisting the FTX in its global expansion.
  • Acted as the legal adviser for TWINT AG, a leading and renowned Swiss online payment scheme/issuer/system, in connection with all financial market regulatory questions.
  • Assisting Oaktree Capital with an asset-based vessel financing transaction of AMA Waterways Group, the river cruise lines, in Switzerland.

VISCHER

VISCHER acts on a high volume of domestic and cross-border matters. The department covers financing and regulatory matters, and is active in banking litigation and arbitration proceedings. Lead partner Adrian Dörig specialises in structured finance transactions, and has notable expertise in aviation finance work. Jana Essebier, who is dual qualified in both Swiss and German law, is a core team member, as is Markus Guggenbühl, who focuses on debt financings, capital market transactions, and financial services regulations.

Practice head(s):

Adrian Dörig


Testimonials

‘VISCHER has a great standing in banking and financing.’

‘Markus Guggenbühl and Adrian Dörig are very responsive, highly skilled and have long-lasting experience.’

‘Law firm with broad experience; closeness to the customer.’

‘The firm is of medium size and covers various areas. The attorneys and partners have established know-how and a broad network of contacts.’

Key clients

PricewaterhouseCoopers AG


Atomyze AG


Bank CIC


Joh. Berenberg, Gossler & Co. KG (Berenberg Bank)


Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited


UBS


IKB Deutsche Industriebank AG


Loomis


RELIEF THERAPEUTICS Holding AG


Dermavant Sciences, Inc.


Invision AG


Bregal Unternehmerkapital GmbH


AFINUM Management AG


Operational Riskdata eXchange Association (ORS)


Paprec Holding


MUFG Bank, Ltd.


Privet Fund Management


Hardinge Inc.


Work highlights


  • Advised Atomyze AG as general legal adviser on the implementation of a Hyperledger based platform in the area of tokenization of assets.
  • Advised various large Swiss banks and insurance companies on moving to the cloud.
  • Advised Dermavant Sciences, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceuticals company dedicated to developing and commercialising innovative therapeutics in immuno-dermatology, in a $200m financing round.

Wenger Vieli Ltd

Wenger Vieli Ltd acts across financing transactions, regulatory matters and the related litigation. The department has additional expertise in the fintech space, with a track record in supporting financial services start-ups. Cross-border financing expert Andreas Hünerwadel co-leads the group alongside Martin Peyer, who has additional experience in asset management work. Recently promoted senior associate Alessa Waibel is a key name.

Practice head(s):

Andreas HünerwadelMartin Peyer


Other key lawyers:

Alessa Waibel


Key clients

Radicant AG


Nextech Invest AG


Serpentine Ventures


Private Bank IHAG, Switzerland


Danske Bank


Privatbank Bellerive


Scandit AG


BBVA (Switzerland)


Interhoerbiger Finance Ltd. (Treasury)


Falcon Bank


Trans Adriatic Pipeline AG


Work highlights


  • Advising MedTech company on complex cross-border project financings with multiple parties.
  • Advising Nextech Invest on regulatory requirements in connection with its Swiss FINMA license and on the launch of three new funds.
  • Assisting Serpentine Ventures with a Swiss FINMA licensing procedure as asset manager for collective investment schemes.

Bratschi Ltd

Bratschi Ltd is highly active in regulatory matters, with a client list which includes banks, insurance companies, and other financial intermediaries. Reto Arpagaus and Ivo Hungerbühler co-lead the department; Arpagaus handles investigations and regulatory matters, while Hungerbühler specialises in banking related litigation. Barbara Jecklin has expertise in finance matters.

Other key lawyers:

Barbara Jecklin


Testimonials

‘The range of services performed by Bratschi extends from providing local law legal opinions to the drafting of transaction documents. We barely instruct other Swiss law firms, as we are very happy with the quality of the services Bratschi provides.’

‘Bratschi’s Banking and Finance team is very service oriented, responsive and solution oriented and on top of market developments.’

‘Partner Barbara Jecklin stands out for her professional, solution oriented advice and benefits from her in-house experience gained in the financial industry. She is an excellent lawyer and manages transactions very efficiently and with the right focus on the topics most relevant to her clients.’

Key clients

UBS Switzerland AG


St. Galler Kantonalbank


Adecco Group AG


Viking Cruises Group


Buis Bürgi AG

‘Well-established and well-known boutique firm’ Buis Bürgi AG covers a broad variety of contentious and non-contentious matters. Eric Buis, who has over 20 years’ experience in banking and finance mandates, leads the team. Other key contacts include Jeremias Widmer, who acts on banking, finance and corporate cases, and senior associate Luca Angstmann, who joined from Homburger in July 2022.

Practice head(s):

Eric Buis


Other key lawyers:

Jeremias Widmer; Luca Angstmann


Testimonials

‘A well established and well known boutique firm led by very prominent and sophisticated Eric Buis, often seen in matters where large firms are conflicted in the area of banking/financial litigation.’

‘Eric Buis is a well known and intelligent partner.’

‘Small but competitive team, very responsive and solution oriented.’

Key clients

Philips


Dufry


Omron


Toyota Material Handling


Lehman Brothers


Abengoa


Gate Group


A.B.S. Factoring


Work highlights


  • Advised a high-level Swiss bank executive pursued by the DOJ.
  • Assisted a listed aerospace and transportation company in the context of the international enforcement of a court decision against numerous Swiss banks.
  • Advised a board member of a company listed at various European stock exchanges on potential insider trading issues.

LALIVE

LALIVE specialises in acting against banks, and represents family offices, international corporate investors, and high-net-worth individuals in a diverse set of contentious mandates. The department has further expertise in sanctions related matters. Simone Nadelhofer, Daniel Lucien Bühr, Matthias Gstoehl and André Brunschweiler co-lead the department, which includes Dominik Elmiger.

Other key lawyers:

Dominik Elmiger


Testimonials

‘Matthias Gstoehl is a highly skilled litigator with profound knowledge of the banking sector.’

Key clients

Banka Snoras


Work highlights


  • Acting for several major institutional and private ultra-high-net-worth investors in regard to potential major losses incurred in connection with the Greensill collapse.
  • Acting as counsel to the liquidators of Lithuanian Banka Snoras which went into bankruptcy after the main shareholders diverted over €400m in assets owned by the bank.
  • Representing a leading global travel retailer in a dispute with a global Swiss bank acting as custodian to release shares held in escrow as part of a business transaction.

Loyens & Loeff

Loyens & Loeff has seen significant growth since the establishment of the department in 2018. The team covers both regulatory matters and financial transactions, in addition to financial restructurings, capital market deals and structured finance transactions. Judith Raijmakers leads the department, and has expertise in areas including acquisition financing, asset financing, and real estate financing mandates. Counsel Christine Hohl and associate Sandra Zysset are also key names to note.

Practice head(s):

Judith Raijmakers


Other key lawyers:

Christine Hohl; Sandra Zysset


Testimonials

‘They are responsive, very hands-on and legally perfectly placed to advise on any kind of complex cross-border transaction in the banking and finance environment.’

‘Sandra Zysset is a very kind and legally highly skilled team member.’

‘Judith Raijmakers is a powerful partner with a broad range of expertise and highly committed to the transactions she advises. She has a practical approach and always considers the transaction parties’ best solutions to make the transactions happen.’

‘Loyens was phenomenal in connection with a fast-moving, highly complex cross-border acquisition financing. They provided very practical and timely advice, in particular for the client who was not familiar with the nuances re Swiss law.’

‘Judith Raijmakers was tremendous – providing sound guidance and also being available at all hours of the day – which, for a time sensitive matter, was essential.’

‘Extremely friendly and available, diverse team, knowledge of market practice.’

‘Many experts in different fields which helps to get a 360° view on the matters. This helps us to take the best decision for our company.’

‘Judith Raijmakers and Sandra Zysset have been our key contacts. They have deep knowledge of Swiss financial services laws and regulation. They are responsive and efficient, working with us to deliver practical regulatory advice to our clients.’

Key clients

Trinseo Materials Operating S.C.A., Trinseo Materials Finance Inc.


BNP Paribas


Pierre et Vacances S.A.


HPS Investment Partners (UK) LLP


European Investment Bank


Folli Follie


Work highlights


  • Advised HPS Investment Partners LLP and other lenders on all relevant aspects in relation to the  acquisition of Adcubum AG., including tax and corporate aspects.
  • Advised the financiers on the €600m senior facility B and the €100m senior revolving facility pursuant to a senior facilities agreement for the financing of the acquisition of the AMEOS group.
  • Assisted the European Investment bank (EIB) with a quasi-equity financing agreement with Xeltis.

Prager Dreifuss AG

Prager Dreifuss AG focuses on cross-border project and transaction financings, and has expertise in syndicated loans. Daniel Hayek and Andreas Moll co-lead the department; Hayek’s practice includes finance transactions, debt restructurings, and contentious matters, while Moll covers corporate finance and general corporate affairs. Counsel Christian Schönfeld is also a key name.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Hayek; Andreas Moll


Other key lawyers:

Christian Schönfeld


Staiger Attorneys at Law Ltd

Staiger Attorneys at Law Ltd is particularly adept at regulatory matters, and acts for a number of banks and financial institutions. The department also advises clients on internal investigations, and has experience in complex banking and finance litigation. Désirée Wiesendanger leads the team, which includes Marc Bernheim and Philipp Känzig.

Practice head(s):

Désirée Wiesendanger


Other key lawyers:

Marc Bernheim; Philipp Känzig


Key clients

Jefferies International Ltd.


Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA


Falcon Private Bank Ltd.


Work highlights


  • Acting as Jefferies’ outsourced competence centre for combating money laundering issues according to the Swiss Federal Act on Combating Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing.
  • Advising Falcon Private Bank on legal and regulatory matters in the course of the winding down of its business in Switzerland.