Latham & Watkins LLP houses a renowned financial regulatory practice group, which is a go-to contact for US-headquartered technology corporations, emerging fintech entities, cryptocurrency platforms and international financial institutions. Matthew Rodwell spearheads the practice which is equipped to handle a wide array of matters, including virtual assets license applications, M&A regulatory support, UAE law compliance and online financial product development. Rodwell is noted for his strength in both local and international mandates, demonstrating particular proficiency in Saudi Arabian matters. Ksenia Koroleva is a name of note.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The financial services regulation practice at Latham is second to none in the Middle East. Their lawyers have an extremely solid grip on current regulatory practices in the UAE and across the GCC.'
- ‘Matthew Rodwell is a standout advisor who can be called upon to provide solid regulatory advice in a manner that is commercially savvy and practically implementable. With genuinely deep knowledge of both financial regulatory laws and market practices, numerous times.'
- ‘The team is very knowledgeable and keen to provide practicable solutions.'
- ‘The partner is very responsive and keen to support which makes it easy to reach out.’
Key clients
- Coinbase
- Tabby
- Binance
- ISLA
- J.P. Morgan
Work highlights
Advised Coinbase on the UAE financial regulatory matters in relation to its US$ 2.9 billion acquisition of Deribit, the largest-ever M&A transaction in the digital assets sector.
Advises Tabby, the Middle East’s most valuable Unicorn, on an ongoing basis in relation to various regulatory and commercial matters, including its licensing by the UAE Central Bank and Saudi Central Bank and intragroup service arrangements.
Advised Binance in connection with its licensing by the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) and ongoing compliance obligations, including advising on various regulatory compliance requirements, structuring of intragroup arrangements and engagement with VARA and other regulators.
Lawyers
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
Matthew Rodwell
Other key lawyers
Ksenia Koroleva