The ‘established' banking and finance practice at Baker McKenzie, Kyiv Office continues to expand its industry specialisation, advising clients across the agricultural, payment services and financial regulations, financial sector reform and fintech sectors. Drawing on the firm’s global network, the team is called upon by a host of financial institutions, such as banks, payment institutions and asset managers. It excels at advising international companies on operations within Ukraine, including regulatory matters. The firm’s capital markets practice, led by Viacheslav Yakymchuk, is also active, alongside the project finance team, which excels in the energy and aviation sectors. Head of the banking and finance practice Serhiy Chorny is a go-to for finance and debt restructuring matters, operating on an international level. Bohdan Diakovych focuses his practice on banking regulatory issues, from financial monitoring matters to local currency and capital controls. Hanna Smyrnova is another key member of the team, along with Stepanyda Badovska.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Key strengths include an exceptional ability to manage cross-border matters and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks. This practice distinguishes itself by its client-centric approach, emphasising tailored advice and personal engagement from senior lawyers.’
‘Senior Associate Bogdan Dyakovych stands out for his deep expertise, exceptional client service and proactive approach. Bogdan makes a significant impact through his diligence, responsiveness and attention to detail.’
‘One of the longest established general banking & finance, FSR and capital markets practices on this market with particular focus on XB lending and international securities issuances.’
‘Serhiy Chorny is one of the leading general banking and finance and capital markets lawyers on this market.’
‘A well-known worldwide company.’
‘Partner Sergiy Chornyi has good experience and devoted colleagues. They are in contact any time when it’s necessary.’
Key clients
- International Finance Corporation (IFC)
- Black Sea Trade and Development Bank
- European Investment Bank
- Citibank N.A., London Branch
- Citibank Ukraine
- Raiffeisen Bank
- Credit Agricole Indosuez
- Cargill Financial Services International
- Mastercard
- Western Union
Work highlights
Advised International Finance Corporation (IFC) on channelling €25m of EU funds in grants across Ukrainian cities to help renovate municipal buildings for internally displaced people (IDP), creating jobs and driving economic recovery.
Advised International Finance Corporation (IFC) on channelling €25m in EU funds to help homeowners' associations restore war-damaged residential buildings.
Representing a consortium of German banks led by Bayerische Landesbank, as Original Lender, Facility Agent and Security Agent, in connection with a €180m loan facility purporting to finance the construction of the 2nd stage of a 200 MW wind power plant.
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 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
Serhiy Chorny
Other key lawyers
Viacheslav Yakymchuk; Bohdan Diakovych; Hanna Smyrnova; Stepanyda Badovska