Debevoise & Plimpton LLP‘s stellar fund finance practice places PE nav financings at its core. The team has a significant focus on private equity and advises on the entire spectrum of fund financing products, including ESG-linked facilities and hybrids. Thomas Smith oversees the team and leads on the team’s most sophisticated matters, including for EQT and Bridgepoint, and is a first port of call for his large blue-chip sponsor and lender clients. Pierre Maugüé is highlighted for his international expertise, regularly advising on cross-border transactions. Rounding out the team are Almas Daud, who was promoted in July 2024, and Felix Paterson.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team is incredibly well regarded in the fund finance space, with Tom Smith and Almas Daud being particularly good to work with. Felix Paterson also deserves a mention as he is central to many of their deals. The team is particularly well known for acting for borrowers on NAV financings.’
'The team is highly creative, a valuable sounding board, and a strong source of market intelligence. They provide clear, transparent legal guidance on what’s achievable and flag potential challenges upfront—especially with our more unconventional asks.'
'Tom Smith, the head of the team, is a trusted counterpart—respected across the market and frequently praised by peers at other law firms. He’s been instrumental in helping us push boundaries and drive market innovation.'
'Highly commercial and at the forefront of market developments.'
'Tom Smith - pragmatic, balancing risk with commercial acumen.'
Key clients
- Bridgepoint
- EQT Partners
- Oaktree Capital Partners
- Coller Capital
- DBAY Advisors
- Glendower Capital
- Bain Capital
- Tikehau Capital
- 17 Capital
- Stone Point Capital
- Park Square Capital Partners
- BPEA EQT
Work highlights
Advised EQT in a single-sleeve subscription line with a syndicate of 6 banks.
Advised Bridgepoint Private Equity in a subscription line refinancing.
Acted as borrower counsel to Bridgepoint Credit on the credit fund NAV facility for its BCO4 credit fund.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Felix Paterson
Practice head
Thomas Smith
Other key lawyers
Pierre Maugüé; Almas Daud; Felix Paterson