Highlighted for its in-depth expertise in regulatory issues surrounding digital assets, Walkers is geared to handle investment and M&A matters for private equity funds and sponsors. The team is led by Natalie Neto, who is experienced in schemes of arrangement, capital markets transactions, and investments. Sarah Demerling is well regarded in the insurance sector and is a key contact for funds matters, while Rachel Nightinghale is an expert in IPOs. Other key members of the team include Marah Smith, who specialises in North American cross-border transactions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The Walkers Bermuda team has in-depth legal and practical knowledge of the Bermuda market.’
- ‘The team is very responsive and commercial, and they worked with us seamlessly to deliver for the overall client.’
- ‘Walkers’ FinTech and digital assets practice is distinguished by its deep regulatory expertise, commercial focus, and strong track record in advising on complex cross-border matters. Clients value their ability to navigate evolving legal frameworks with clarity and precision, particularly in jurisdictions like Bermuda, the BVI, and the Cayman Islands, where they have played a key role in shaping market standards for digital asset businesses.'
- 'They have introduced internal cross-practice collaboration models to align regulatory, corporate, and insolvency expertise, which is especially valuable for clients launching or restructuring digital asset products.'
- ‘Rachel Nightinghale and her team were supportive and persistent throughout.'
- 'We found Rachel Nightinghale easy to work with, responsive, and she always gave us confidence that her team was on top of our issues and that she knew exactly what to convey to the regulator.’
Key clients
- Ares Management Corporation
- Aspen Insurance Holdings Limited
- Assala Energy Investments Ltd
- Axalta
- Coinbase Global Inc
- GIC Private Limited
- GoldenTree Asset Management LP
- Grant Thornton
- Kestra Medical Technologies
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Royal Bank of Canada
- SP Cruises
Work highlights
Representing Grant Thornton as Bermuda legal counsel in relation to a strategic investment by Cinven and other parties to create a global multidisciplinary platform, which will provide audit, advisory, and tax services to an international client base.
Advising Aspen on drafting amended and restated bye-laws of the company to align with those of a Bermuda listed entity.
Acting as Bermuda counsel to Vantage Drilling International (VDI) in relation to a corporate reorganisation, including the re-domiciliation of VCI from the Cayman Islands to Bermuda.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Natalie Neto
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Rachel Nightinghale
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Marah Smith
Practice head
Natalie Neto
Other key lawyers
Sarah Demerling; Rachel Nightinghale; Marah Smith