Spearheaded by Rabel Akhund, the banking and finance team at Akhund Forbes boasts extensive experience is conducting high-value, cross-border transactions, both domestically and across multiple jurisdictions. The group is regularly engaged in advising on sovereign financing and regulatory innovation. Of recent note, it has been expanding its climate finance offering, advising on ESG-linked sovereign facilities, energy transition projects, and sustainability-related risk allocation. Akhund leads the practice and is noted for his work guiding clients on green and sustainable finance alongside advising banks on major energy sector financing. Bilal Awais is another key member of the team and has been handling refinancing mandates the government of Pakistan.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The firm stands out for its seamless fusion of global reach and local expertise. With deep roots in international law and on-the-ground insights across key jurisdictions, it delivers tailored solutions that balance cross-border complexity with region-specific nuances.' 

  • 'The team’s ability to simplify intricate legal frameworks into actionable strategies builds trust, while senior leaders’ hands-on involvement ensures accountability.'

  • 'Its cross-practice collaboration is admirable, reducing redundancies and accelerating outcomes.' 

  • 'The team uses AI-driven case management tools, allowing us to track real-time progress and predictive risk analysis, enhancing efficiency without sacrificing precision.' 
  • 'This firm’s commitment to excellence, agility, and client-centric innovation makes it a standout partner for complex cross-border matters.’

Key clients

  • Act Polyols (Pvt) Limited
  • Pinsent Masons LLP
  • JS Bank Limited
  • Arif Habib Corporation Ltd
  • Aisha Steel Mills Ltd
  • Arif Habib Group
  • Meta
  • Credit Suisse
  • China Development Bank
  • China Power Hub Generation Company Limited
  • FenXun Partners
  • Asian Development Bank

Work highlights

Advising Shanghai Eletric on its loan facilities in connection with its mine mouth power project in Pakistan.
Advising China Development Bank on a series of LIBOR to SOFR transition matters.
Advising China Development Bank on the security structure and related aspects of its landmark loan to Pakistan’s first ever private Transmission Line Project.

Lawyers

Leading partners

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

Rabel Akhund

Practice head

Rabel Akhund

Other key lawyers

Bilal Awais