A&O Shearman has ‘a first-class team with a deep bench that is technically excellent with a keen commercial approach.’ The firm is active in every corner of the derivatives and structured products market, particularly in novel and emerging areas of structured finance and regulatory. The ‘very commercial and pragmatic’ Guy Antrobus leads the practice and focuses his practice on risk transfer transactions and synthetic securitisations. Parya Badie has a stellar track record that includes innovative transactions, a prime example being the first synthetic securitisation based exclusively on UK ESG assets. Up-and-coming partners Paul Allan, who focuses on credit derivatives and equity derivatives, and structured credit and repack specialist Tanya O’Hagan are key members of the practice. Sara Couling frequently advises borrowers and lenders on fixed income and FX derivatives in connection with leveraged, acquisition, infrastructure and project financing transactions. Ross Stewart in equity financing through margin loans and derivatives. Patrick Clancy is recommended for bespoke structured finance products. Former practice head Emma Dwyer and Daniel Shurman departed the firm in early 2024. Andrew Sulston retired in November 2023.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The team has a breadth and depth of knowledge on derivatives and structured products compared with some of its peers. They are user-friendly, especially on complex legal topics.’
‘Guy Antrobus - very good technical lawyer but also very commercial and pragmatic and lead solutions on difficult transactions to a high completion rate.’
‘A&O first and foremost has a team of excellent technical lawyers across all levels of seniority. Compared to other Magic Circle firms they have excellent bench strength and, although partner availability is still good, their associates are more than capable of working independently.’
‘Guy Antrobus continues to be one of the leading partners in this market, combining excellent technical skill with a wealth of experience that makes him a go-to partner for anything connected with derivatives.’
‘First-class team with a deep bench that is technically excellent with a keen commercial approach.’
‘Tanya O'Hagan is a star. Always on hand to discuss matters and share insights. Close knowledge of the market and commercial approach.’
‘In my experience, the team at A&O Shearman is highly technical. We engage A&O on bespoke and complex transactions, usually with a tight deadline. A&O is able to deliver the outcomes that we and our clients require.’
‘We work closely with Tanya O'Hagan on our TRS Financing Business. In particular, I appreciate that Tanya is very hands-on and is able to provide commercial solutions in response to the requirements of our clients.’
Key clients
- FIA Technology Services
- The International Swaps and Derivatives Association
Work highlights
Acted as counsel for a global financial institution, helping to structure and document a hybrid financing that allowed institutional capital investors to invest alongside syndicate lenders as part of a EUR 1.25 billion financing package for a sovereign borrower.
Advised FIA Technology Services (FIA Tech) on its implementation of the 2023 FIA Tech Regulatory Protocol (the Regulatory Protocol). The Regulatory Protocol provides a legal framework for adopting parties to amend their Give-Up Agreements (GUAs) at scale to include any standard form clauses required by a particular regulatory initiative.
Advising on Abu Dhabi Global Market legal opinions to ISDA and various global financial institutions.
Lawyers
Hall of fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Guy Antrobus
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Paul Allan
Sara Couling
Tanya O’Hagan
Practice head
Guy Antrobus
Other key lawyers
Sara Couling; Parya Badie; Paul Allan; Tanya O'Hagan; Ross Stewart