Clifford Chance targets Latin America corporate and M&A work, primarily through its New York and Sao Paulo offices. In addition, the launch of a Houston office in 2023 has enabled the firm to bolster its standing in energy transactions in Latin America, particularly in Mexico; Spanish speaking counsel Joshua Bernard joined the Houston team in January 2024 from Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, bringing Latin America-specific expertise in M&A, joint-ventures and private equity transactions. Over recent years, the firm’s efforts have centred on South America, particularly energy and infrastructure transactions, and financial sponsor-led deals. It frequently advises consortiums on their bids for brownfield and greenfield projects. In Sao Paulo, the large team has developed a fine record in financial institutions M&A and fintech transactions, along with energy and infrastructure. The Sao Paulo office is also working with private capital investors in the distressed asset space. The firm’s connections in Asia and the Middle East have also brought it a number of M&A and investment engagements relating to Latin America. Sao Paulo managing partner Anthony Oldfield is a leading name in Brazil M&A and is a growing force in venture capital and fintech transactions in the jurisdiction. Splitting her time between Sao Paulo and New York, Thais Garcia (‘highly visible in LatAm and a stand-out M&A partner’) has become a pivotal figure in the team, particularly in representing private equity and financial sponsors in their investments in energy and infrastructure assets. New York’s David Brinton remains a prominent figure in energy and infrastructure transactions, including financial sponsor-driven deals in Latin America. New York-based Carla Ruggero (dual-qualified in Argentina and New York) was promoted to the partnership in May 2024 and continues to advise a range of financial sponsors and Latin American corporates. Madrid based Javier Amantegui and Samir Azzouzi are also active in Latin America private equity transactions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Strength in regional market knowledge and can draw from within the firm globally on required industry expertise. Top team, no question about it.’

  • ‘Thais Garcia is highly visible in LatAm and a stand-out M&A partner.’

  • ‘I particularly highlight the deep understanding of the legal and commercial complexities surrounding the transactions. It is a firm that is distinguished by a commitment to excellence in its work and outstanding results and its speed in response at each stage of the process. The firm not only provides first-class legal advice, but also acts as a strategic advisor, working closely with clients to identify and capitalise on opportunities, mitigate risks and ensure the success of each transaction within the client's required timelines.'

Key clients

  • Actis
  • Iberdrola
  • Eurofarma
  • Cubico
  • Zuma Energía and its shareholder China Power International Holding
  • JCHX Mining Management Co
  • Cinven

Work highlights

Advised ISA Chile on its joint venture with Transelec and China Southern Power Grid International, through the Yallique Consortium, regarding their joint bid for the construction and operation of Chile's Kimal-Lo Aguirre line, a 1,400km electricity transmission line with a planned capacity of 3,000MW; estimated value of $1.3bn.
Advised Iberdrola on the sale of 50% of the shares in Neoenergia Transmissora to the GIC Group.
Advised State Grid International Development on its over $1bn sale of an aggregate stake of approximately 26% in the Singapore holding company of its Brazilian subsidiary, State Grid Brazil Holding.

Lawyers

Leading partners

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

Anthony Oldfield

Next generation partners

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

Thais Garcia
Carla Ruggero

Practice head

Anthony Oldfied