Bates Wells‘ emerging markets practice is primarily dedicated to impact investing work, covering both equity and debt investments. The team is led by Joe Whitfield, who is particularly experienced in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia and Latin America. Sung-Hyui Park is distinguished for her expertise across a wide range of impact investing projects, from green and sustainability-linked loans to renewable energy financings. UK and foreign government-backed development investment funds, private equity funds and international foundations can rely on Nirav Patel for advice on cross-border M&A.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The Bates Well team is experienced and offer expertise in all investment areas.’
‘Their partners understand our business well and are quite committed and invested. Further than reviewing or drafting agreements, Bates Wells has also become a good sounding board when it comes to deal structuring. We value and appreciate all their input, and Joe Whitfield specifically has been a great asset to our company.’
‘The Bates Wells team is unique in its positioning in the impact / emerging market space. Other law firms greenwash their pitches, whereas the Bates Wells team is the go-to team for impact investors who wish to be advised by legal counsel who understand their mindset.’
‘Working with Nirav Patel was productive and efficient, like an extended internal team. Quick understanding of the targeted structure and our needs. ’
‘Enthusiasm from the team to advise, with very little notice, on complex and unusual funding arrangements, including bringing in external support from another firm, to ensure seamless, comprehensive advice.’
‘Highly responsive and very helpful advice, including anticipating what we would need to get a deal across the line, such as charity trustee engagement.’
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Joe Whitfield
Other key lawyers
Sung-Hyui Park; Nirav Patel