Singled out for its strong capabilities in banking regulatory matters, Demarest Advogados' banking and finance practice also advises borrowers - primarily from the agribusiness, aviation, automotive, and pharmaceutical sectors - and lenders on a wide range of finance transactions, including domestic and cross-border loans, acquisition finance, project finance, and debt restructuring. Practice head Fabio de Almeida Braga is a highly regarded banking regulatory specialist who also focuses on digital platforms and initiatives in fintech and open finance. Fausto Teixeira regularly advises local and international financial institutions, fintechs, crypto companies, payment institutions, financial market infrastructure entities, and other regulated entities on the Brazilian banking regulatory framework. Marcus Fonseca, noted for his expertise in fintech, payment systems, and financial market infrastructure, joined from TozziniFreire in March 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Demarest Advogados offers excellent service, providing in-depth analysis of the issues at hand and promoting legal certainty in its case analysis. In addition, the firm has expertise in several areas and is a full-service firm with renowned professionals in the sector.'
  • 'Fabio Braga and Fausto Teixeira provide high-level opinions and documents. They have a full understanding of the sector and also use a cross-practice perspective.'

Key clients

  • SAAM Towage Brasil S.A.
  • FCA FIAT CHRYSLER AUTOMÓVEIS DO BRASIL

Work highlights

Advised Citibank, Santander, J.P. Morgan, Deutsche Bank, and other creditors, under Brazilian law, in the context of Latam's notes offering worth $1.4bn, with a remuneration of 7.875% and maturing in 2030.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

Fabio de Almeida Braga

Other key lawyers

Fausto Teixeira; Marcus Fonseca