Firm Profile > Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP > Almaty, Kazakhstan

Banking, finance and capital markets Tier 1

The team at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP is 'very talented and cooperative', and often advises international banks alongside the London office in financing, capital markets deals and restructuring. The firm lost skilled banking associate Konstantin Lukhnov, but also made two new hires at associate level, namely Olga Klimova and Karina Ilyussizova. The firm represents the AIX, a division of the newly formed Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), in connection with policy drafting and stock exchange procedures; Kazakh partners Bakhytzhan Kadyrov and Aset Shyngyssov worked with with the London office on this matter. Shyngyssov advised a client in the natural resources sector on EBRD financing for the $295m construction of an enrichment factory in Kazakhstan; Asem Bakenova and associates Karina Ilyussizova and Daniyar Zhumakhanov were also involved in this matter.

Energy and natural resources Tier 1

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP  advises on joint ventures, project finance, procurement and regulatory approval. Clients are 'impressed by the attitude and behaviour of the team', which has 'good expertise and deep knowledge on these matters'. Aset Shyngyssov divides his time between the Nur-Sultan and Almaty offices, and recently acted for a mining client in the $295m construction of an enrichment factory financed by the EBRD. Marat Mukhamediyev, who was recently promoted to senior associate, assisted Shyngyssov in advising Italian state-controlled energy corporation Eni SpA on a new wind-power project in Kazakhstan. The team was boosted by four new hires, including associate Karina Ilyussizova, who supported on the aforementioned wind-power project.

Corporate, commercial and M&A Tier 1

Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 2

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP provides 'good general practical legal advice' and is 'able to draw on the expertise of colleagues in other international offices'. The firm is regarded as a 'safe pair of hands' for work, of which M&A is a particular strength. Managing partner Aset Shyngyssov is 'key' to the firm's success, has 'good commercial sense and is able to give direct advice'. He recently represented ALSTOM Transport Holdings in its acquisition of a 25% share in an electric locomotives plant. Bakhytzhan Kadyrov is noted for the 'quality of his advice, which is pragmatic and commercial'. Associate Aida Akhmetova is praised for her 'proactive attitude'; she supports Shyngyssov in assisting Aldar Properties.

Dispute resolution Tier 2

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP represents clients in international arbitration and cross-border disputes from its two Kazakh offices in Almaty and Nur-Sultan. Aset Shyngyssov heads the practice, and Klara Nurgaziyeva is also highly recommended.

Real estate and construction (including projects) Tier 2

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP advises real estate clients on corporate and contractual matters. Aset Shyngyssov represents Aldar Properties in lease agreements for retail, office and residential premises in Abu Dhabi Plaza, a major mixed-use development in Nur-Sultan.