Hall Of Fame

Fintech in Switzerland

Bär & Karrer Ltd.

With a client roster that includes start-ups and large technology companies, Bär & Karrer Ltd. possess demonstrable strengths across a spectrum of legal and regulatory matters. Key undertakings for the firm encompass crypto currencies, crowdfunding and technology licensing and procurement, to name a few, and the team regularly operates in the banking, insurance and finance remit. Daniel Flühmann  and Eric Stupp jointly lead the practice, with the former holding a wealth of experience in corporate and commercial matters as well as advising on the legal framework relating to blockchain technology. The latter’s capabilities include regulatory issues, enforcement proceedings and M&A. Peter Hsu is routinely engaged by foreign banks, securities dealers and insurers, while Christian Kunz strengthens the practice with his expertise in data, data protection, cybersecurity and technology law. Cyrill Diefenbacher and Gadi Winter are also recommended.


Practice head(s):

Daniel Flühmann; Eric Stupp


Other key lawyers:

Peter Hsu; Christian Kunz; Cyrill Diefenbacher; Gadi Winter


Key clients

Bitcoin Suisse AG


FRUSS


Work highlights


Kellerhals Carrard

Noted for operating in a ‘proactive and client-oriented manner’, Kellerhals Carrard enjoys a strong reputation in a diverse array of areas, from payment systems and tokenisation to credit and digital asset management. Practice head and ‘absolute pro’ Luca Bianchi advises clients on complex capital market transactions, the regulation of financial services and securitisation transactions. ‘Well connected’ Cornelia Stengel primarily focuses on financial services regulation and data protection. Transactional expert Emanuel Dettwiler and data protection expert Luca Stäuble are other key members of the practice.

Practice head(s):

Luca Bianchi


Other key lawyers:

Cornelia Stengel; Emanuel Dettwiler; Luca Stäuble


Testimonials

‘The FinTech team of Kellerhals Carrard has an excellent and comprehensive understanding of FinTech related matters. As a result, the team renders swift, precise and goal-oriented legal advice in a pro-active and client-oriented manner. The team truly makes a difference when it comes down to FinTech related matters!’

‘Luca Bianchi is an absolute pro when it comes to modern legal financial topics, in particular FinTech matters. Due to his extensive experience in this field, Luca is key person when interactions with relevant stakeholders take place, in particular financial market authorities.’

‘Luca Bianchi is always very responsive and very kind making it a true pleasure to work with him. ’

‘Cornelia Stengel and her team invest as well in their knowledge outside legal e.g. technology or what is happening outside Switzerland.’

‘Cornelia Stengel and her team work in a collaborative, transparent way. You are always up to date and most importantly the delivery is on agreed time with high quality.’

‘They are very competent and strongly committed to this topic. The collaboration is very efficient and the billing is in line with the market.’

‘Although diversity does not play a major role with regard to technological aspects, the firm also seems to be very open-minded in this area.’

‘Our main point of contact on the topic of FinTech is Cornelia Stengel. She is very well connected in the Swiss financial centre up to the highest circles, which makes the interaction with her even more valuable.’

Key clients

Block Green AG


Dukascopy SA


Ephelia Group SA


Kasparund AG


Major Swiss Bank


MNC SA


Sygnum Bank AG


Bricksave


Quid CH AG, Quid Global ltd


Rulematch AG


Santiment Gmbh


Sppyns


SwissBanking Association


Swiss FinTech Innovations


trustwise.io ag


TWINT AG


UB Partner


Undo Studio SA


Vaudoiseinvestplus


Work highlights


  • Advising the Swiss Bankers Association (SBA) on “project deposit token”. If issued by regulated banks, a deposit token could make an important contribution to Switzerland’s future competitiveness and innovative power, as well as bolster its sovereignty. The SBA has published a white paper on a digital Swiss franc, in which it outlines various designs of “tokenised” deposits on the blockchain.
  • Supporting Rulematch in developing an exchange for digital assets and in applying for one of the first licences for a DLT trading facility. This type of license having been recently introduced, the requirements and the legal uncertainty are very high.
  • Advising Bricksave on real estate crowdfunding and other innovative financial products.

MLL Legal

Praised by clients for being ‘practical and plugged in’, MLL Legal is a strong choice for clients pursuing new technologies, such as innovative financing structures and new business models utilising fintech. The team routinely operates for banks and financial institutions, as well as fintech start-ups and securities firms. Steering the practice is Kilian Schärli and Reto Luthiger, with the former being particularly active in the technology, industrial and internet sectors, while the latter is noted for his experience in the remit of financial markets regulatory work and civil law matters. Catrina Luchsinger Gähwiler acts for a diverse client base comprised of banks, asset managers and investment vehicles. Ronald Kogens departed in May 2023.

Practice head(s):

Kilian Schärli; Reto Luthiger


Other key lawyers:

Catrina Luchsinger Gähwiler; Alexander Vogel; Karin Oberlin


Testimonials

‘MLL team is responsive, knowledgeable, and innovative in providing legal advice in matters relating to fintech, blockchain and cryptocurrencies. They have a problem-solving attitude and a hands-on mentality. I’ve been working with several others teams in different countries and MLL is for me among the top teams.’

‘Reto Luthinger is a prominent expert in fintech, blockchain and cryptocurrency. Highly updated in the industry and technological advancement. Reto is leading the regulatory side in Switzerland but also very informed in developments in the EU. His ability to deeply understand the tech side and come up with legal solutions has been very instrumental.’

Karin Oberlin handles the corporate and commercial sides. She has great management skills and responsiveness. Deep familiarity with the business side combined with legal expertise allows her to be always ahead with the legal services needed in a very innovative structure. ’

‘Collaborative approach covering corporate, regulatory and tax. Practical and plugged in.’

‘I am immensely impressed by the exceptional service and outstanding capabilities of MLL. Their legal expertise and commitment to clients are truly remarkable. Throughout my case, they demonstrated unparalleled professionalism, attention to detail, and an unwavering dedication to achieving the best possible outcome. Their track record of success speaks volumes about their competence.’

‘I have the utmost respect and appreciation for the invaluable guidance provided by my legal advisors, Kilian Schärli and Reto Luthiger. Their expertise, professionalism, and unwavering support have been instrumental in resolving my legal concerns.’

‘Their ability to decipher complex legal matters and provide clear, concise advice has been truly commendable. I wholeheartedly endorse their services to anyone in need of expert legal counsel.’

‘Very experienced team that covers a lot of the key players in the Swiss Fintech sector. Broad knowledge and very hands-on and pragmatic advice.’

Key clients

Pyth Data Association


SR Saphirstein AG


Bitcoin Suisse SA


Paradigm Connect Asia Pte + ParaClear Association


ECO Inc and ECO Association


Access Labs and Access Protocol Association


Amrit AG


TWINT AG


Kraken (Payward)


Validation Cloud


Bittrex Global


Elusiv Association


Ammer Group


GreenPark Sports Association


Yahoo


Enso Labs/Enso Association


Adaptive Holdings Ltd (US entity) and CasperLabs (Swiss entity)


Swiss Life Asset Management


Fireblocks


Utxo AG / NFT Maker


EOS Block One


SEBA Bank AG


Yoordi AG


Backed Finance AG / Backed Asset GmbH


Crypto Finance AG


SEBA Bank AG


InCore Bank AG


Solana Foundation


Ripple Labs


Värdex Suisse AG


Work highlights


  • Advised Backed Assets in the structuring, the launch and daily operations of a program of tokenized structured products tracking underlyings such as US treasury based ETFs, S&P500 based ETF, Coinbase share, from Switzerland with a full EU-prospectus through Liechtenstein.
  • Advised Pyth Data Association – one of the largest and most reliable oracle network delivering real-time market data for crypto, equities, FX and commodities to over 13 blockchains – in its launch and daily operations.
  • Accompanied SEBA Bank AG – a full digital asset bank in Switzerland – in the launch and continuous extension of a comprehensive Swiss and European Exchange Traded Products program for cryptocurrency linked Exchanged Traded Products (ETP).

MME Legal | Tax | Compliance

Including a diverse array of projects in its arsenal, from technology and tax to banking and corporate, MME Legal | Tax | Compliance’s technical understanding means that it is well positioned to advise notable clients on digital or blockchain-based applications, crowdfunding initiatives and token offerings, to name a few. Co-lead Thomas Linder bolsters the practice with his capabilities in international tax issues, as well as a broad scope of interdisciplinary projects. Fellow co-lead Andreas Glarner is notably well-versed in digitalisation strategies and the regulatory landscape. Ronald Kogens, who joined from MLL Legal in May 2023, is noted for his representation of companies across the full range of development, while Michael Kunz demonstrates prowess in data protection, software license management and cloud computing. Michèle Landtwing Leupi’s strengths lie in complex compliance cases, internal investigations and regulatory matters.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Linder; Andreas Glarner


Other key lawyers:

Ronald Kogens; Michael Kunz; Michèle Landtwing Leupi


Key clients

Sygnum Bank AG


BProtocol Foundation


Liquity AG


MAMA Multichain Asset Managers Association


Metaco AG


BitGo


Openblocks AG


NEAR Foundation


Curve.fi


Safe Ecosystem Foundation


Radicle Foundation


BadgerDAO


1inch Limited


dYdX Foundation


Toucan Protocol Association


VR All Art AG


Polygon Labs Services (Switzerland) AG


Solana Foundation


InCore Bank AG


PEAX AG


Lemonade Crypto Climate Coalition


GenTwo AG


OMA3 (Association)


Caeleste AG


Scrypt AG


Paired World Foundation


Snapshot


Alephium


Aave


Anoma Foundation


Fantium


Work highlights


  • Provided extensive regulatory and contractual advice to Metaco, a Swiss financial technology company with the objective to explore and design institutional-grade digital asset management solutions; this included also an M&A deal to sell the company.
  • Advised the Safe Ecosystem Foundation e.g. with the implementation of a DAO governance structure, the regulatory analysis and support of DeFI functionalities, and negotiations and rulings with tax authorities regarding digital business models, blockchain-based transactions, tokens, and ICOs. Safe is the most trusted decentralized custody protocol and collective asset management platform on Ethereum and the EVM.
  • Advised Solana Foundation on all matters including legal and regulatory advice in connection with the launch of new elements of the layer 1 DLT-network. The Solana protocol is a high-performance DLT- network supporting builders around the world creating smart contracts and decentralized applications.

Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd

Reputed for its work handling the utilisation of blockchain technology, Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd is well-equipped to manage issues surrounding digital assets, legal and regulatory compliance aspects as well as crowdfunding projects. Recommended for its ‘extraordinary level of competence and expertise’, the firm’s stellar client roster includes a variety of funds, banks and financial institutions. Olivier Favre, Tarek Houdrouge and Roland Mathys jointly spearhead the practice. Zurich-based Favre’s reputation for transactional and advisory work is prominent, and Geneva-based Houdrouge covers an array of fintech work, from cross-border M&A to venture capital. Mathys is intimately familiar with outsourcing transactions and major technology projects, while Caroline Clemetson possesses notable experience in the realm of banking and finance law. Grégoire Wuest regularly handles multi-jurisdictional transactions.

Practice head(s):

Olivier Favre; Tarek Houdrouge; Roland Mathys


Other key lawyers:

Caroline Clemetson; Grégoire Wuest; Grégoire Tribolet


Testimonials

‘This practice is unique in its ability to provide full service legal counsel with an extraordinary level of competence and expertise.’

‘Schellenberg has the broadest coverage of services and depth of knowledge compared to the others.’

‘Accurate, timely, and comprehensive legal advice.’

‘The elements of Grégoire Tribolet that elevates him above the rest include: accuracy and comprehensive nature of deliverables, ability to provide a sound recommendation, timeliness in delivering results, responsiveness to requests, flexibility on billing, general demeanor, breadth of advice, willingness to go above and beyond.’

‘Grégoire Tribolet is exceptional and, though expensive, is an invaluable member of the extended team.’

‘Tarek Houdrouge is the most impressive lawyer I have worked with: he combines outstanding technical legal skills with a solution oriented approach.’

‘It is a real pleasure working with Tarek Houdrouge as he facilitates all complex matters and offers innovative advice. He is extremely efficient in all circumstances and is a great ally in urgent situations.’

Key clients

Crypto Fund AG


Crypto Finance AG


Decentralised Autonomous Vehicles (DAV)


E-GTSA Limited


Alpian SA


SEBA Bank AG


iintega


ITOCHU Corporation


Leonteq Securities AG


CAT Financial Products AG


Credit Suisse


L1 Digital AG


Swiss4.0 Ltd


Work highlights


  • Assisting Alpian SA, a Swiss bank, since its incorporation in 2019 as sole legal advisor in connection with all its regulatory and contractual matters. Advised Alpian on multiple regulatory and contractual matters relating to its offering of digital financial services.
  • Advising Leonteq Securities AG on the issuance programmes to be used, inter alia, for the issuance of structured products with crypto assets as underlyings on its platform. Such programs include also issuances by other banks that use the Leonteq platform for issuing structured products.
  • Advising CAT Financial Products AG on the set-up of programmes to be used, inter alia, for the issuance of structured products with crypto assets as underlyings. This advice includes the issuance of exchange-traded products (ETPs), which are backed by crypto assets and security arrangements regarding such crypto assets as collateral assets that are provided to secure the exposures of investors.

Homburger

Appreciated by clients for its ‘unique combination of deep sector knowledge, cutting-edge technological understanding and adaptive solutions’, Homburger represents innovative and blue-chip companies on financial market regulation, financing, capital markets and TMT matters. Daniel Haeberli and Luca Dal Molin jointly steer the practice, with Haeberli’s key client roster composed of financial intermediaries and start-ups. Dal Molin’s extensive experience in technology transactions bolsters the practice, while Stefan Kramer contributes his capabilities in tokenisation, regulatory and contractual issues and digital assets.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Haeberli; Luca Dal Molin


Other key lawyers:

Stefan Kramer


Testimonials

‘The Homburger Fintech practice has consistently showcased a unique combination of deep sector knowledge, cutting-edge technological understanding, and adaptive solutions. Potential clients would certainly appreciate the team’s forward-thinking approach that seamlessly blends traditional legal expertise with the nuances of the evolving Fintech landscape.’

‘Homburger stands out due to its collaborative culture. The practice prioritises communication and works closely with clients to ensure a bespoke service.’

‘Innovatively, Homburger has introduced a transparent billing structure that aligns with the fast-paced, results-oriented demands of the Fintech sector. Their dedication to diversity brings a wealth of perspectives to each project, ensuring comprehensive solutions.’

‘Their utilisation of advanced legal tech tools, as well as their openness to cross-industry collaboration, sets them apart in an increasingly complex field.’

‘Great team: fantastic knowledge with a deep understanding of the market.’

‘Daniel Haeberli is an expert in this field with deep knowledge of the legal system that drives innovation.’

Key clients

UBS


Apex Fintech Solutions


CMTA – The Capital Markets and Technology Association


Hashdex


ISP Group


21Shares


Verified


Targens


Amber


The Singularity Group


Global X Digital Assets Issuer Limited


Pando Asset


Work highlights


  • Advised the Capital Markets and Technology Association (CMTA) on landmark POC for tokenization of investment products as digital structured products.
  • Advised Apex Fintech Solutions on its ETP emission platform.
  • Advised 21Shares on first cash tender offer for crypto-linked Exchange Traded Products.

Lenz & Staehelin

Helmed by Lukas Morscher, Marcel Tranchet and Fedor Poskriakov, the ‘extremely knowledgeable’ team at Lenz & Staehelin is pre-eminent in the use of DLT and blockchain technologies. It fields a considerable offering that encompasses the digitisation of financial assets, compliance with anti-money laundering regulations and public blockchains. Morscher is accomplished in technology, financial services and business sourcing, while Poskriakov is a specialist within banking, securities and finance law. Tranchet advises across a diverse array of issues, including securities transactions, financing matters and derivatives.

Practice head(s):

Lukas Morscher; Marcel Tranchet; Fedor Poskriakov


Testimonials

‘A great team, working collaboratively and always available for its clients. In additional to their exceptional legal expertise, very knowledgeable of their clients’ business. This enables an advice focussed on client’s specificities and needs. ’

‘Fedor Poskriakov is not only extremely knowledgeable on fintech, and related matters such as NFT or digital twins, he is also a remarkable negotiator, with the ability to explain complex legal matters in simple terms, balancing risks and finding pragmatic solutions to achieve successful outcome for his clients. Fedor always makes time and go the extra mile to meet his client’s deadline.’

‘The team is really open-minded with the correct comprehension of the needs of the client. The collaboration is really smooth and is very skilled in technology.’

‘Lenz & Staehelin is one of the best actor related to subject of WEB3. The understanding of our needs is fantastic.’

‘Our collaboration experience with Fedor Poskriakov has truly been exceptional. Working alongside Fedor has been nothing short of amazing. He consistently demonstrates his brilliance as a lawyer, showcasing a profound understanding of Blockchain technologies, including within the Web3 ecosystems.’

‘Groundbreaking understanding of the market trends and applicable regulations (including forthcoming regulations).’

‘Fedor Poskriakov is a go-to person in this practice area.’

‘The team is combining a unique set of skills across different topics (e.g., legal tech, capital markets, blockchain) combined with a unique ability to find innovative solutions.’

Key clients

Aura Blockchain Consortium


Capital Markets and Technology Association


Cité Gestion SA


CleanSat Mining SA


Colb Asset SA


Crypto PE investor


Crypto trading company


Global Asset Manager/RobecoSAM


Global Financial Services Provider


Global issuer of digital gold tokens


Global Insurance Group


Initial Coin Offering


International Group of Exchanges


Leading US Financial Institution


Liberty Mutual


MagicTomato SA


Major Insurance group


Mt Pelerin Group SA


Structured Commodity & Corporate Finance (SCCF)


Swissquote Bank SA


WisdomTree


Work highlights


  • Advised Swissquote on the launch of SQX, its crypto-exchange.
  • Advised SCCF on its inaugural issuance of a tokenized short-term note.
  • Advised Aura Blockchain Consortium, an association of which LVMH, Richemont, Mercedes-Benz, OTB and Prada are founding members, on the launch of its NFT platform.

Niederer Kraft Frey AG

Operating across the full spectrum of fintech related matters, Niederer Kraft Frey AG’s provision of advice to strategic partners, venture capitalist houses and private equity houses is particularly notable. Key undertakings for the practice incorporate data protection law, regulatory proceedings and trading platforms, to name a few. Its work in the financial technologies sector is extensive. ‘Outstanding’ practice head Thomas A Frick frequently handles regulatory, contractual and structuring issues. Bertrand Schott strengthens the practice with his demonstrable proficiency in financial market regulations, financial infrastructure and payment system regulations.

Practice head(s):

Thomas A. Frick


Other key lawyers:

Bertrand Schott


Testimonials

‘They’re great.’

‘Bertrand Schott is a pleasure to work with.’

‘I have only dealt with Thomas Frick, who is an outstanding lawyer and has always fulfilled our needs in a very competent manner.’

‘I can highly recommend Thomas Frick as a specialist in all fields of FinTech and Regulation.’

Key clients

AMNIS Treasury Services (FinTech start-up), Zurich


DISEO


BC Capital (Blue Code payment scheme; FinTechs start-up), Zurich/Vienna


Crescent Fintech Ltd.


Move Digital


Finch Capital (FinTech Venture Capital Firm), London/Amsterdam


Finastra (global FinTech player),UK/ USA


Keyman


Leontec


Swiss Impulse Group AG


Work highlights


  • Advised Crescent Fintech Ltd on setting up a Swiss asset manager for foreign crypto investment funds.
  • Advised Hyperion on setting up a crypto asset manager.
  • General legal advice on all matters related to the legal set up of a Swiss FinTech license.

Pestalozzi

A practice that demonstrates ‘tremendous strength in regulatory, fintech and asset management maters’, Pestalozzi is particularly well-versed in regulatory impact analysis, blockchain and cryptocurrency projects alongside substantive expertise in the implementation of new technologies. The practice is jointly led by Oliver Widmer, who practices across a multitude of transactional and regulatory matters, and Urs Klöti, who principally focuses on regulatory, anti-money laundering, compliance and finance matters.

Practice head(s):

Oliver Widmer; Urs Klöti


Testimonials

‘Pestalozzi is a very reputable law firm with a tremendous strength in regulatory, fintech and asset management matters.’

‘The team is highly constructive and commercial on its advice and always on top of the latest regulatory developments. Also, client service is exceptional.’

‘Even under greatest pressure, Andrea Huber and her team provide clear, solid and workable solutions.’

‘Andrea Huber is a super bright and experienced financial services/fintech partner with truly outstanding regulatory and industry knowledge. Her level of care and dedication is extraordinary and hard to find.’

Andrea Huber does not only show top notch expertise but is also very collaborative, personal and easy to work with. She has a superb judgment what the regulator is looking for and is well established in the market.’

‘Stands out from other law firms because of their absolute professionalism, experience and availability.’

‘Every individual is an expert in his field. Complex cases are covered by several experts for best output and understanding for the client. Client is giving full transparency and expertise. ’

‘Super service.’

Key clients

Amazon Web Services


Axpo


Bolttech/The Pacific Century Group


Clarksons Platou


Custodigit


De Beers


Finastra


FQX


Goldman Sachs


iCapital Network


Imcore


Instimatch


Kraken Crypo Currency Exchange


Leonteq


Libra


Lighthouse


New-X


Nexo


NIUM


Nivaura


Open Swap


PCT Trading Limited


Polkadot


Polygon (MATIC)


Positif.ly


RobecoSAM


Saxo Bank


Swiss Crypto Bank


Synpulse


Tezos Foundation


Token Commons Foundation


UDS Oil


Web 3.0 Technologies Foundation


Work highlights


  • Advises Instimatch on building up its new lending platform with turnover of almost USD 300 bn in 2022.
  • Advises BX Swiss on setting up a new infrastructure in order to trade in tokenised securities. Groundbreaking.
  • Advises 23 Swiss insurers and brokers in connection with the formation of the insur-tech joint-venture EcoHub AG.

VISCHER

Described as ‘dedicated, responsive and professional’, VISCHER’s fintech practice has recently been engaged in crypto-related and cloud-related matters as well as security token offerings. The practice is led by Jana Essebier, who fields a diverse practice that encompasses blockchain-related advice, mobile payments, crowdfunding and complex financial instruments. Stefan Grieder specialises in the law on collective capital investments, while Christian Wyss’s capabilities range from transfer and licensing agreements to contract manufacturing agreements. Rolf Auf Der Maur has established extensive knowledge in the digitisation and online platforms sphere.

Practice head(s):

Jana Essebier


Other key lawyers:

Stefan Grieder; Christian Wyss;Rolf Auf Der Maur


Testimonials

‘The team understands to bring regulatory experts and experts in IT law and data protection to the table, ensuring a holistic and consistent advice, acting as a one stop shop.’

‘A professional and very effective team, they know what they are dealing with and when facing a challenge, they resolve it in the outmost professional manner.’

‘Dedicated, responsive and professional. They do not waste your time and every exchange is effective and straight to the point.’

‘Jana Essebier is very smart and very easy to work with.’

‘The team is notable in being able to provide technical advice on highly complex areas of law while also remaining practical and keeping the client’s interests at heart. ’

‘We have worked with Jana Essebier and found her to be highly experienced and detail oriented, but also able to communicate complex legal issues in a way that can be easily understood.’

Key clients

Eternyze AG


Additiv


Elementum Metals Securities plc


F10 Investment AG


King Esports GmbH


Interchain


QoQa Services SA


Digital PK


Founder of Tensor Technologies


CODE 41 SA


Work highlights


Wenger Vieli Ltd

Counting a host of start-ups and established players in its key client roster, Wenger Vieli Ltd is regularly entrusted by significant clients to manage complex regulatory matters and license procedures, alongside strengths in blockchain, distributed ledger technologies and cryptocurrencies. Martin Peyer helms the practice, excelling in the spheres of cryptocurrency, regulatory aspects of blockchain business models and NFT marketplaces. Martin Berweger is a specialist within the realm of blockchain projects, with Daniel S. Weber also being recommended.

Practice head(s):

Martin Peyer


Other key lawyers:

Martin Berweger; Daniel S. Weber


Key clients

radicant


Inyova


Dialectic


Neon Switzerland


Stableton


Codos Network


DeFactor DAO


Rally


Valory


Chorus One


Selma


Work highlights


  • Advising Swiss impact investing platform Inyova on FinTech matters and licensing process as an asset manager.
  • Assisting asset manager Dialectic in establishing a fund structure for crypto assets.
  • Assisted Neon Switzerland in establishing an application for its users to buy stocks and ETFs via Neon.

Baker McKenzie

Manuel Meyer, Ansgar Schott and Yves Mauchle jointly lead Baker McKenzie Switzerland AG‘s fintech practice, which leverages its expansive global network to effectively advise financial institutions, global digital leaders and start-ups on a variety of legal and regulatory issues in the fintech arena. Meyer counts a diverse array of domestic and international investors in his client roster, while Schott advises clients throughout the lifecycle of regulated businesses. Mauchle is noted for his ability to assist financial intermediaries with regulatory matters and demonstrates prowess in relation to fintech business models.

Practice head(s):

Manuel Meyer; Ansgar Schott; Yves Mauchle


Testimonials

‘Very customer-oriented, hands-on approach.’

‘Consulting is not abstract-academic, but solution-oriented and concrete.’

Key clients

BrickMark AG


Aevolve AG


Secro Inc.


Deposit Solutions GmbH


Wallee AG


Intrum AG


UBS AG


Numbrs Personal Finance AG


BlockFactory AG


Certifaction AG


Helveteq AG


Leonteq Securities


Verve Capital Partners


Raisin GmbH


Yumi Ldt


Bochsler Finance Solutions (BFS) SA


Work highlights


  • Advising UBS AG (“UBS”) on a transnational digital securities issuance using the distributed ledger technology (DLT). The USD 50m fixed rate digital securities were placed in Singapore and Hong Kong and issued and settled on 15 December 2022.
  • Advising Leonteq Securities AG (“Leonteq”) regarding its new cooperation with VP Bank AG (“VP Bank”) for the manufacturing and distribution of structured investment products under a newly-created innovative white-labelling issuance model.
  • Advised Secro regarding the recognition and enforceability of Digital Negotiable Instruments under Swiss law, in particular regarding its use of collateral for Swiss banks.

CMS von Erlach Partners Ltd.

Steered by Tina Balzli, CMS von Erlach Partners Ltd.’s ‘responsive, solution-oriented and creative’ fintech practice advises on matters pertaining to innovative payment services, digital assets brokerage and trading platforms as well as cryptocurrency exchanges. The team is able to utilise its extensive global network to benefit its clients. Well regarded for her ‘experience, personality and skills’, Balzli is knowledgeable across the full gamut of regulatory issues, among others. Matthias Kuert strengthens the practice with his expertise in general contract and corporate law matters.

Practice head(s):

Tina Balzli


Other key lawyers:

Matthias Kuert


Testimonials

‘They are perfectly up to speed and even beyond when it comes to the latest legal and general developments, are well educated and experienced, very responsive, solution oriented and creative.’

‘Tina Balzli leads the team and stands out with her experience, personality and her skills.’

Key clients

Aequitech AG


Bitcoin Association for BSV, Zug


TAAL Distributed Information Technologies Inc.


Work highlights


  • Providing ongoing legal advice to Aequitec on an app-based platform to keep the share registry of Swiss stock corporations and allow them to hold their general meetings digitally.
  • Advising Bitcoin Association for BSV on all Swiss legal topics, such as regulatory questions, or organizational questions. Bitcoin Association for BSV supports the Bitcoin SV base layer protocol.
  • Advising TAAL Distributed Information Technologies Inc. on its Swiss subsidiary and on other Swiss law aspects concerning, inter alia, tax and employment law. TAAL is a vertically integrated Blockchain infrastructure and service provider, enabling customized solutions to enterprise clients. The company is listed at the Canadian securities exchange.

Eversheds Sutherland AG

Eversheds maintains a strong practice in advising innovative start-ups involved in the blockchain and crypto business. Michael Mosimann leads the practice with his vast expertise in financial market regulations related to digital applications. Ludovic Duarte’s wide-ranging experience includes enforcement proceedings and regulatory matters, while Andrea Bätscher possesses considerable cross-border capabilities.

Practice head(s):

Michael Mosimann


Other key lawyers:

Ludovic Duarte; Andrea Bätscher


Work highlights


Gillioz Dorsaz & Associés

Géraldine Badel Poitras and Damien Cand helm the Gillioz Dorsaz & Associés fintech practice, noted for its representation of fintech companies in business model development, requesting financial licenses and in enforcement proceedings with the FINMA. Badel Poitras is reputed within the financial regulation sphere, whereas Cand’s strengths lie in M&A and anti-money laundering. Bernado Marques is another name to note in the practice.

Practice head(s):

Géraldine Badel Poitras; Damien Cand


Other key lawyers:

Bernado Marques


Work highlights


Künzi Hess MacNab

Noted for its ‘successful fact finding’ capabilities, Künzi Hess MacNab’s comprehensive offering includes legal, regulatory and compliance advice. Martin Hess, My Chau Bachelard and Eva Künzi Peditto jointly spearhead the fintech department. Hess is especially knowledgeable in the remit of financial services issues.

Practice head(s):

Martin Hess; My Chau Bachelard; Eva Künzi


Testimonials

‘Very fast and successful fact finding.’

‘My Chau Bachelard works efficiently and is client-oriented.’

‘The practice grew up from banking and finance practice, soo they have strong knowledge and understanding of basis of the fintech regulation.’

‘Martin Hess’s knowledge and experience in fintech area are unique.’

Work highlights


Mangeat Attorneys at Law LLC

While routinely engaged by clients with a focus on crypto business, Mangeat Attorneys at Law LLC’s fintech practice also provides strategic advice surrounding issues of banking, anti-money laundering and corporate law. Practice head Fabien Aepli, who is praised for his ‘business acumen’ and high quality advice’, demonstrates considerable expertise across blockchain-related projects, STOs and the tokenisation of shares and other assets. Laetitia Rienzo is another key name to note.

Practice head(s):

Fabien Aepli


Other key lawyers:

Laetitia Rienzo


Testimonials

‘Great people and know-how.’

‘Trustworthiness, think out of the box, and timeliness are the aspects that I would like to call out that define a great law firm and as a consequence Mangeat.’

‘Fabien Aepli is able to provide high quality advice and suggestions, taking into account very complex regulatory aspects, technical matters, innovation and commercial possibilities and options. This is of extreme value for the client as it delivers good business ROI and it is not seen as a mere legal cost.’

‘Fabien Aepli has high business acumen, anticipates issues and provide better and more pragmatic solutions. He is also extremely fair in the billing and has a non-common availability when there is an issue or a pressing matter, including nights and weekend.’

Key clients

Swiss Crypto Advisors SA


Re-Company SA


Alphemy Capital SA


Tyr Capital Partners LLC


Finarchitects Sàrl


Finch Investments SA


SwissBorg Invest SA


Work highlights


  • Advised Swiss Crypto Advisors SA in the process of obtaining FINMA’s authorization to carry out portfolio management activities.
  • Advised Re-Company SA in relation to the development of its smart-bottle using blockchain technology to encourage and finance the cleaning of oceans from plastic waste, while enabling users to track their own water consumption.
  • Appointed and acted as member of boards of directors for Fintech companies.