Advocat is commended for being ‘uniquely positioned to navigate the complexities of the fintech industry’. However, the banking and finance team’s recent experience extends beyond fintech to encompass regulatory and transactional matters for both lenders and borrowers, with a focus on the private lending sphere. Nicolás Fernández De Soto oversees the department and contributes niche expertise in representing private lenders, including fintechs. A capable team of associates includes intermediate Javier de la Cruz, who specialises in finance, fintech and securities; and junior Maria Antonia Recio, who demonstrates ’deep knowledge of financial regulation’.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Advocat stands out as a legal practice uniquely positioned to navigate the complexities of the fintech industry with precision, agility, and a forward-thinking approach.’
‘Nicolás Fernández de Soto is a highly skilled and strategic legal expert, with a deep understanding of financial regulation, transactional structures, and risk management. His leadership is complemented by a dynamic and multidisciplinary team that thrives on innovation and adaptability.’
- ‘What sets Advocat apart is its ability to embrace complexity with audacity and ingenuity. It does not simply provide legal solutions—it crafts tailored strategies that anticipate regulatory shifts and business challenges, ensuring clients stay ahead in an industry as fast-evolving as fintech.’
‘Advocat’s strength lies in its exceptional individuals. Each professional brings a unique combination of expertise, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the fintech landscape, which sets it apart from competitors, who often take a more traditional, rigid approach to legal advisory.’
- ‘Among the outstanding legal professionals at Advocat, Maria Antonia Recio stands out for her unparalleled professionalism, deep knowledge of financial regulation, and precise, insightful advisory in regulatory and contractual matters related to the payments industry.’
‘The team stands out for its personalised and timely attention. In-depth knowledge and clarity to find options that make businesses viable within the legal framework. It is clear that lawyers know the legislation very well. The team brings a lot of experience and commitment.’
Key clients
- Finesa
- Uni2 Microcrédito
- Suramérica Comercial
- Financiera de Desarrollo Nacional
- Tapi Colombia
- Pomelo Tecnología
- Paygo
- Inverlink Inversiones Alternativas
- Colfinanzas
- Julia-RD
- Genera Sueños
- Tu respaldo Seguro
Work highlights
Advised First Principles Fund on the structuring and closing of a cross-border, asset-based financing for the issuance of consumer and ordinary loans under Colombian law.
Acted for Payjoy Colombia in the amendment and restatement of a structured financing facility.
Advised Somos Networks Colombia on the structuring of a receivable purchase agreement with a foreign lender.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Nicolás Fernández de Soto