ACI Partners is a bright, modern firm that is making waves in a very static market. Taking into account market opinion and deal flow it is definitely a firm that will be looking to the higher tiers in the next few years....
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ACI Partners is a bright, modern firm that is making waves in a very static market. Taking into account market opinion and deal flow it is definitely a firm that will be looking to the higher tiers in the next few years.
"ACI Partners is much more active than some firms above them. They have a modern, western approach too, which is good for clients," admits one competitor.
These clients too are pleased with the service they are receiving: "They are a young and energetic team of professionals, who have a good knowledge of the local environment and legislation," comments one, while another is more understated: "In most cases they were able to provide good solutions to our problems."
The firm's strongest mandates came in 2010, including a notable M&A deal. In this a team led by partner Igor Odobescu, an ever-present on the firm's top work this year, rendered their services to Alliance Venture Capital Holding, a Canadian investment house, with regard to the acquisition of a wine plant. This deal also entailed a certain amount of debt reshaping as well as creating some innovative shareholding structures too. This international investment closed in August of 2010 for a figure that remains under confidentiality.
As expected, ACI has also become active on more distressed work too. This includes advising a confidential client that is about to enter insolvency proceedings. The deal is made notable as the European Bank for Reconstruction & Development (EBRD) might potentially be looking to be involved here, depending on the circumstances. This work is still currently ongoing, as the firm looks at the legislative framework in Moldova to find a solution.
Another noteworthy deal the firm acted on was one that brought about the construction of the first maritime port in the republic of Moldova. Specifically, a team advised Danube Logistics, Bemol Retail, Bemol Trading and Easeaur Holding with respect to equity-linked debt financing for the International Free Port of Giurgiulesti and also for a string of petrol stations across the country. Completing successfully in October 2010, the eventual sum for this deal also remains confidential.
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