Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd‘s banking and finance practice is a strong choice for both transactional and regulatory matters spanning structured finance, acquisitions of bank portfolios and reorganisations in the sector. The team also frequently engages in advisory work, handling ESG and Islamic finance documentation. Co-head Tarek Houdrouge is notable for his experience advising foreign banks and financial institutions on regulatory matters and lending transactions. Grégoire Wuest advises clients on implementing new regulations and developing digital products and services, also guiding them through FINMA approval procedures. Co-head Grégoire Tribolet possesses a strong grasp of fintech solutions, blockchain, regulatory compliance and licensing applications. Edmond Kohler closely supports the team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The Schellenberg Wittmer banking team stands out for its rare combination of technical mastery, strategic foresight and pragmatic client service. Compared to other firms we have worked with or benchmarked, Schellenberg Wittmer delivers exceptional value for money.’
- ‘Tarek Houdrouge is the clear standout partner. He combines unparalleled expertise in banking law with strategic acumen and communication skills that are rare to find in one individual. Unlike many competitors, he is not only a deep technical expert but also an excellent project leader who understands organisational dynamics, cultural sensitivities, and regulator expectations.’
- ‘High accessibility, pragmatic, fact-oriented solutions, deep specialist knowledge.’
- ‘Grégoire Wuest is extremely quick at grasping the essence of complex and specific issues. He is simply brilliant.’
- ‘Schellenberg Wittmer's team excels in regulatory matters, fund structuring and FINMA compliance. The team demonstrates exceptional execution speed and efficiency. Their direct partner involvement ensures rapid decision-making and high-quality deliverables.’
Key clients
- 1875 Finance
- Aldo Group
- Alpian SA
- Arsenal Capital Partners
- ATP adhesive systems AG
- AXA Investment Managers Schweiz AG
- Banco Santander
- Bank Itau (Suisse) SA
- Bank Julius Baer
- Bank Vontobel
- Banque Thaler
- Barclays Bank PLC
Work highlights
Represented Alberto Joseph Safra on the Swiss aspects of the global resolution of all disputes with the Joseph Safra family in the context of a multibillion dollar inheritance dispute.
Advised an undisclosed bidder on the auction process for the sale of Société Générale (Suisse) SA, which was sold to UBP, with SG Kleinwort Ambros, for €900m.
Advised Deutsche Bank New York Branch, as administrative and collateral agent, on all aspects of Swiss law regarding a new super-priority secured revolving credit financing and the amendment of existing secured term credit financing granted to Trinseo Holding S.à r.l. and Trinseo Materials Finance, Inc.
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.
Practice head
Tarek Houdrouge; Grégoire Tribolet
Other key lawyers
Grégoire Wuest; Edmond Kohler