Baker McKenzie LLP has continued its fast evolution following the headline hire of leading light Michael Fitzgerald and a large team in 2023. Fitzgerald and his New York-based group have substantially augmented the practice by targeting clients of the firm's offices across Latin America. While Mexico remains its prime market, the capital markets group has seen further growth in Brazil, along with Peru, Chile, Colombia and Argentina. In Mexico, the New York team has dominated the market for decades, most notably in the real estate and logistics sectors, including in the Fibra (real estate investment trust) segment. The team advised on the two Mexico IPOs that were executed in 2024, including Fibra Monterrey's $500m offering, and has made a further mark on deals connected to the nearshoring movement in the jurisdiction. It is also noted for sustainability-linked offerings and de-SPAC transactions. Aside from the outstanding Fitzgerald, Arturo Carrillo is another prominent partner in Latin America capital markets offerings, along with Joy Gallup, who is noted for sustainability-linked and green bond offerings. Steven Sandretto has an impressive record in Brazil transactions, while Pedro Reyes is also having an impact on the market. All named individuals are based in New York.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Baker's capital markets team has extensive experience and industry knowledge. In my opinion, it's one of the most well-prepared legal teams for projects involving the capital markets.’
‘Mike Fitzgerald and Arturo Carrillo have extensive experience and knowledge of capital markets matters. Their expertise in multiple transactions gives them an advantage over their competitors.'
‘Deep and detailed knowledge of the industry and its practices. Precise, efficient, creative, solid.'
‘Friendly, knowledgeable, effective - Michael Fitzgerald, Arturo Carrillo and Joy Gallup.'
Key clients
- BBVA, JP Morgan, Alterna, BofA, Citi, GS, Santander, Scotia
- Gruma
- IDC Overseas
- LatAm Logistic Properties
- Fibra Monterrey
- Citigroup, Morgan Stanley, BofA, Goldman Sachs, and UBS
- Alfa,
- Credivalores - Crediservicios
- Corporacion Pesquera Inca
- Urbix
- Betterware de Mexico
Work highlights
Represented Gruma in an $800m 144A/Reg. S debt offering involving JP Morgan and several other initial purchasers.
Represented BBVA and J.P. Morgan (as global coordinators), and Alterna, BofA, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs, Santander and Scotia (as joint bookrunners), in connection with a sustainability-linked notes offering by Fibra Uno, consisting of $500m of 7.700% senior sustainability-linked notes (due 2032) and $300m of 8.250% senior sustainability-linked notes (due 2037).
Represented IDC Overseas in connection with an international notes offering under a $150m program.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Michael Fitzgerald