Araújo & Policastro Advogados
Araújo & Policastro, founded in 1962, is in São Paulo and is known for its work in the corporate practice area. It is part of Denton’s
NextLaw Referral Network, giving the firm an international presence.
In the corporate law sphere, the firm specializes in M&A transactions and often
represents buyers and sellers. Although it works across a wide variety of industries, it is especially prevalent in agribusiness,
technology and life sciences.
Key publishable clients include Rentokil Initial.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
During the research period the firm was active in M&A and project development, advising clients exclusively on confidential matters.
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
“Very professional, very analytical, very
deep and complete work.”
“The scope of work I performed with Araujo & Policastro comprised international and Brazilian taxation, international and Brazilian estate law, and Brazilian civil law. They provided the client with a five-star service. The client
benefited from their
expertise, care, politeness, and availability to
assist,
discuss and address the client's matters. Working with them is a pleasure since we know the quality of their work and trust them.”
Fernanda
Botinha Nascimento
“Fernanda is an outstanding tax professional, highly interested in
assisting her clients. Her professional skills include her politeness and reliability.”
Sylvio Paes de Barros Jr.
"Sylvio is a highly experienced lawyer. His career success is not only based on his professional expertise but on an overall attribute that includes politeness, availability, and deep caring about his clients.”
BMA - Barbosa Müssnich Aragão
Barbosa
Müssnich Aragão, or BMA, was founded in 1995 and has since become a highly regarded firm in the financial and corporate practice areas. Team members are spread out across three offices: São Paulo, Rio de
Janeiro and Brasília. The firm’s international focus is represented through their China and French desks.
The firm is strong across
all of their financial and corporate practice areas, but it is
perhaps most highly regarded in M&A, where the team advises buyers and sellers alike.
The banking team works with both borrowers and lenders, with an emphasis on the borrower side.
Similarly, the capital markets debt and equity practice areas mostly
advise issuers, but also underwriters.
The project development practice area advises sponsors on infrastructure construction in a range of industries.
Key clients for of the firm span all industries. Some examples include
Brasil Telecom
ComunicacãoMultimídia,
Petrorecôncavo, BHP Billiton
Brasil,Lojas Americanas, Carrefour, Olympique Lyonnais Groupe, Queiroz Galvão Group, XP, Zurich Airport Latin America and LATAM Airlines.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
During the research period the firm was active in banking, capital markets,
investment funds,
M&A and restructuring and insolvency.
The banking team
advised
more lenders than borrowers, including some development banks
on financing in the real estate, energy and banking
industries among others.
The firm’s capital markets work included issuances from a diverse set of industries including healthcare, investment management, hospitality and real estate. On the equity side, the firm was mostly active in investment management and real estate.
Consistent with the other practice areas, the investment funds team
mainly advised
domestic asset managers in the investment management, real
estate and financial services industries.
In M&A, the firm
participated in acquisitions in the fintech and financial services sectors. It also
advised on cross-border joint ventures and mergers.
The restructuring and insolvency team
advised creditors and debtors in high profile restructurings and insolvency proceedings.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Cimento
Tupi restructuring
CSN Resources $500 million bond issuance
Indorama Ventures
$1.3 billion acquisition of
Oxiteno
Pyxus International $100 million refinancing
Sul América/Rede D'Or São Luiz $2.9 billion merger
XPart/IUPAR
$1.9 billion merger
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Bank lending: Lender side
“Very knowledgeable of Brazilian law and business orientated.”
“The partner and the senior team are very responsive and experienced, combining consistent technical skills with solutions to help the adequate negotiation of the agreements.
The documents are carefully drafted, and the key points are raised and addressed
in a timely manner, with consistent comments.”
“Deep knowledge of the subject, agility in the service and presence of the partners in the meetings.”
“BMA provides clear and straightforward opinions; they are also
very familiar with commercial aspects that rule the legal transactions, therefore
providing great advice.”
“Among the many qualities of the team is the ability to respond quickly, their in-depth knowledge of the topics and agility in deliveries.”
“BMA has deep knowledge
regarding capital markets and the energy sector, which were fundamental to the success of the transaction. The team is business-orientated and totally hands-on.”
Capital markets: Structured finance and securitization
“Extremely dynamic with very quick response time as well as being highly knowledgeable about local capital markets regulations.”
“Very smart and creative, responsive, up to date with capital markets innovations, and good negotiators.”
“BMA has an experienced team with good skill in creating efficient and complex legal structure for restructuring assets.”
Financial services regulatory
“Fast and objective answers.”
“Always very professional, everyone we ever had contact with seemed very competent and knowledgeable about their field.”
“BMA's team is very proactive in suggesting the strategy we should adopt in this specific case.”
“Knowledgeable and well-connected, they are always able to provide us with commercially sound advice.”
Investment funds: Private equity funds
“In addition to robust technical knowledge, based on an interdisciplinary approach and excellence, the BMA team is different in every way. They are more than service providers – they are unconditional partners, always available to customers, with intelligent and
feasible solutions and excellence in soft and hard skills. We are especially grateful to partners Roberto Dias Carneiro, Thiago Frazão, Conrado C. Stievani and Mariana
Gofferjé Pereira for all their support.”
“Deep knowledge about the rules and law applicable for investment funds.”
“Extremely solid and diligent. I felt safe throughout the
whole process given I trust their work.”
Investment funds: Real estate funds
“They are
totally accessible, responsible and deliver extremely well-done and technically
accurate work.”
“The team is hands-on and really knowledgeable on the matter.”
Investment funds: Registered funds
“Hermano Barbosa is extremely up to date in tax issues and skilled in extremely complex situations. Always very efficient.”
“Organized,
very knowledgeable in several areas – capital markets, tax, real estate and corporate.”
“The office has a very specialized,
diverse and always available team.”
“They have broad knowledge of the market and are very quick to answer questions and solve problems.”
“Technical quality of the lawyers involved in the operation.”
“They have a deep knowledge of the areas related to the transaction and
provide extremely fast feedback from different demands. Development of
very good ideas of how to structure the deal, and on legal and tax perspectives.”
“Vast knowledge and very available to help.”
“He has a variety of skills that not only enables his high-quality
assistance, but he also has the sensibility to
identify the best course of action to meet the client's needs.”
“Strong knowledge of M&A transactions.”
“Very calm, dedicated and business oriented.”
“Gabriel forms an excellent partnership with the business team and internal counsel. He has very solid
expertise and is keen on
providing solutions to the adequate negotiation of the agreements.”
“Very knowledgeable of Brazilian law and excellent attention to detail.”
“Extremely capable and diligent lawyer, with technical
expertise in various legal aspects, always available and willing to think of creative solutions. He brings what a lawyer should pass on to the client: peace of mind, security and robustness.”
“An excellent professional with a lot of experience, he
is able to support the company in complex matters and find sustainable solutions for the business.”
“Extremely competent and diligent, a creative head to solve problems like
I've never seen. It is a well of legal knowledge, in several areas.”
“Mariana is an extremely diligent, proactive, intelligent,
creative and caring attorney. She has robust technical knowledge and is an amazing professional to work with.”
Camila Goldberg
Cavalcanti
“Very business oriented.”
“Camila takes ownership of the situation and
anticipates client needs.”
“Jane
provides
very clear and straightforward opinions; she is also
very detailed when revising and
providing comments on legal agreements, which is
a great quality for real estate deals. She is also very committed to deadlines and easily accessible.”
“Excellent skills in relationship management and communication. Aggressively meets all deadlines. Provides excellent knowledge in
jurisdiction and industry sector.”
“Always extremely up to date
regarding the regulation of the asset management industry, knows how to advise on a broader range of aspects of the business, including
very good referrals for external advisers when needed (usually for other
jurisdiction matters). Very accessible and quick to respond.”
“Deep knowledge about the fund investment industry and M&A transactions.”
“Extremely solid and diligent. I felt safe throughout the whole process given I trust their work.”
“Jane is a highly trained professional and plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring a well-done transaction in the Brazilian market. Her positive attributes are her strong and solid legal knowledge,
good communication, and she is very ethical.”
“Jane is very committed and knowledgeable.”
“Broad knowledge
of capital markets and
good communication skills.”
“Jane has a deep knowledge of the local funds industry, and M&A transactions too.”
“Pedro is always very available and willing to find the best solution.”
“Technically he has
a very good and excellent attitude during negotiations.”
“Deep knowledge of the venture capital industry.”
“Deep knowledge about the local fund industry.”
“Very proactive,
very good at suggesting the best strategies to be adopted.”
“Very knowledgeable and business oriented.”
Thiago Baptista Ferreira Pinho
“Pinho is always very available and willing to find the best solution.”
“Very responsive,
knowledgeable and extremely committed to deadlines.”
“She has good analytical skills and is very quick to answer every question.”
“Responsive, knowledgeable, and easy to communicate with.”
“One of the best capital markets lawyers in Brazil, in charge for several deals. He is business-oriented, hands-on, and my first choice in any matter related to capital markets.”
“Eduardo has great language skills, being able to lead complex negotiations in different languages. He also has good restructuring and financial knowledge.”
“He understands my business very well. Proactive and supportive.”
Campos Mello Advogados
Founded in 1981, Campos Mello is a full-service law firm recognized for its work in business and financial law. The firm is headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, and has offices in Sao Paolo and Brasilia. In addition, the firm has desks in Miami, New York and London through its cooperation with DLA Piper.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is active in banking, capital markets, M&A, private equity, project finance and project development.
The banking department provides legal assistance in loan agreements, credit facilities, cross-border financings and debt restructuring.
The capital markets team has advised local and international clients in issuing convertible and non-convertible debt. It is also active in equity and assisting clients in IPOs. The team advises both issuers and underwriters.
The corporate and M&A team is experienced in energy and distressed asset sectors. It is active in private equity as well as public and strategic transactions. It often works on the buy-side of transactions.
Key clients
Deutsche Bank, Banco Santander (Brasil), Blizzard Entertainment , Coca-cola, Hyatt Hotels, Nissan, Nestle and BASF.
Demarest Advogados
Established in 1948,
Demarest is one of the largest firms in Latin America and boasts four Brazilian offices in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro,
Brasília and Campinas, as well as an international branch in New York.
The firm’s international reach stretches beyond its New York office as part of several legal networks including Lex Mundi, Interlex and Employment Law Alliance.
The firm works across financial and corporate and project development matters.
The banking team focuses
on syndicated loans and debt restructuring on both the borrower and lender side.
In capital markets the firm
represents both issuers and underwriters in debt and equity matters.
The M&A team has
expertise in a wide variety of industries and client types. It
represents strategic buyers, private equity buyers and sellers in public and private M&A transactions.
The project development team advises bidders, concessionaires and financial sponsors in projects ranging from sanitation to infrastructure to power.
Key clients for the firm include
Vibra Energia, Ford Motor Company
Brasil, Smart RJ, Banco Itaú, Focus Energia, Nike and Consortium
Conecta Campinas.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Over the research period the
firm-maintained activity in the banking, capital markets, investment
funds, M&A, private equity,
projects and restructuring and insolvency
practice areas.
The banking team advised borrowers from various industries including healthcare, automotive, agriculture and aviation on complex financing transactions. The firm also worked with international financial institutions.
On the debt side of capital markets, the firm advised several
investments firms
as lead managers for issuances in the banking,
agriculture and energy
sectors among others. For equity,
the firm assisted on cross-border offerings in the financial sector.
The
investment funds team focused
its work in the banking sector, advising clients on innovative fund structures.
In M&A, the firm advised more buyers than sellers on public and private acquisitions while also participating in some joint ventures. Agriculture was the
most active sector for
the firm.
The private equity team also advised on various private acquisitions with particularly innovative components.
The firm also completed some cross-border financial investment deals.
The firm was engaged in
PPPs and concessions in
the transport, energy,
oil and gas and technology and telecommunications industries.
On the finance side, the firm advised on project securitizations and other complex fundraising transactions for renewable
energy projects.
In restructuring and insolvency, the firm advised on
large-scale restructurings and other proceedings.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
ArcelorMittal
Brasil
$2.2 billion acquisition of Companhia Siderúrgica do
Pecém
Corteva
$1.2 billion acquisition of Stoller Group
Inter Platform Nasdaq IPO
LATAM Airlines Group
$2.75 billion DTE financing
North Block
II Concession project
Open Plaza $500 million acquisition financing
São Martinho $214 million bond issuance
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
“Demarest was one of the main law firms that helped design and structure the transaction, which was extremely complex and involved much regulatory and legal discussion, in Brazil, Cayman and in the
US. The Demarest team was proactive and very responsive to find solutions and innovate in all challenges
encountered. They also led important parts of the deal.”
Restructuring: Restructuring and insolvency
“They are responsive, pro deal and hands-on and produce high-quality work.”
“Availability 24/7, unique
expertise, and deep knowledge of cross-border insolvency procedures.”
“Demarest navigated me through the Brazilian restructuring landscape and provided me with safe advice in an area that I was not familiar with – Demarest's guidance was critical to our internal decision-making process concerning the transaction.”
“Demarest has the most efficient restructuring team. Its partner Guilherme Bechara
provides an excellent service to Latam. He is
very knowledgeable and available 24/7.”
“Responsive. High-quality work. Pro-deal. Very constructive.”
“Guilherme is one of the best restructuring and insolvency lawyers in Brazil. He is
very knowledgeable and handles the most complex transactions smoothly.”
“Excellent attorney. Extremely responsive and available.
Good communication skills. Guilherme provided us with good advice that kept us confident during the process. He
demonstrated deep knowledge not only of the law, but also of the market and industry.”
“Efficient, knowledgeable, 24/7 availability despite its many clients.”
“José is extremely strategic, hands-on, works with excellence and has an excellent sense of timing.”
“Thiago has an excellent knowledge of corporate legal matters, is always looking for the best solution and is a problem solver.”
Dias Carneiro Advogados
Located in São Paulo,
Dias Carneiro
is a full-service firm founded in 2002.
The banking team
represents both borrowers and lenders in many types of transactions, most notably export prepayments and credit facilities.
The M&A team specializes in financial services,
energy and technology sector transactions for both strategic buyers and sellers.
The projects team
represents borrowers, lenders,
developers and sponsors on projects in the energy, sanitation, pulp and paper, mining and oil and gas industries.
Key clients for the firm include IDB, Digital House Group,
Kinea
Investmentos and International Finance Corporation.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
The firm was active in banking, capital markets, insolvency, M&A and
projects.
The banking team
advised international lenders in significant
cross-border financing transactions including project financing.
The capital markets team was active on the debt side,
advising
issuers in the energy and financial services sectors.
In insolvency, the firm
advised creditors
in judicial reorganizations across multiple industries including real estate,
agriculture and financial services.
The M&A team advised
more acquirers than sellers,
mainly on
private acquisitions and investments in the technology sector among others.
The project development team
worked mostly on confidential matters.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
CMOC
Brasil
Mineração $600 million refinancing
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
“Responsive team with high technical quality and efficiency.”
“They
provide innovative and
timely solutions to close acquisitions.”
“Dias has been proactive,
responsive and business-forward. Most of their attorneys are multilingual and have training in multiple
jurisdictions. Rather than saying something that
can't be done, they understand our business
objectives well enough to find legal mechanisms to get as close to our target outcome as possible.”
“Very business-orientated, creative and has
very good technical skills.”
“Conservative and well-founded advice. Thorough. Creative and solutions-orientated backed by fundamentals and market experience. I have full confidence in their advice. They collaborate and work well with NY counsel. They
provide
timely responses.”
“He has legal knowledge and business knowledge that enables him to translate complex issues into legal documents.”
“Positive attitude, proactive and solutions oriented.”
“He has
expertise in negotiations. Also, Ricardo gathered a good-quality team that supports him during M&A deals.”
Paula Seabra Carvalho Reis
“Innovative,
timely solutions to close acquisitions. In-depth legal knowledge.”
“Debora is assertive,
focused and responsive.”
“Very business oriented. Always available when needed. Incredible business skills.”
“A Brazilian law expert with international perspective. Speaks several languages. Is culturally aware. Does his best to explain Brazilian law impacts even if the law is not so clear.
Provides attention to client relationships. Organizes his team well. Prioritizes our needs. Collaborates and contributes Brazilian law insights to multi-jurisdictional legal structures.”
Lefosse
Established in 1987,
Lefosse Advogados is a Brazilian full-service firm with offices in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
Equity capital markets is where the firm thrives,
representing both issuers and underwriters in transactions across all industries.
The banking practice area
represents both borrowers and lenders in matters ranging from credit facilities to debt restructurings.
The M&A team works with strategic buyers, private equity buyers and sellers in mergers,
acquisitions and joint ventures. The group has experience with both public and private M&A transactions.
The project development team
represents clients on all sides in energy and infrastructure projects.
Many of
Lefosse’s key clients are international banks and corporations, including Marfrig, Bank of America, BBVA Securities, JPMorgan Chase, MUFG and GIC Special Investments. It also has key Brazilian clients including Petrobras, Eletronorte and Banco do
Brasil.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Over the research period the firm was active
across banking, capital markets, investment funds, M&A, private equity,
projects and restructuring and insolvency.
The banking team had a substantial market impact working on significant cross-border financing transactions linked to agriculture, renewable energy, transport and other sectors. The firm
advised
borrowers and lenders.
On the debt side, the capital markets team was deeply engaged in the real estate sector, advising clients on real estate receivable credits and other issuances.
On the equity side, the firm advised mostly underwriters in cross-border share offers across various industries such as education and energy.
The investment funds team
assisted clients with fund formations and fund raising for private equity investment funds, real estate investment funds and
credit rights investment funds
almost entirely in the investment management industry.
In M&A,
the firm advised on multiple large cross-border acquisitions and mergers in industries such as healthcare and transport.
Energy,
agribusiness and sanitation were some of the sectors the private equity team was engaged in. The firm
assisted with the formation and structuring of several private equity funds for private acquisitions and other investments.
In project transactions, the development
and finance sides both consisted mainly of deals in the energy sector, specifically renewable energy. The project finance team advised lenders and borrowers equally on domestic and cross-border financing deals.
The firm’s restructuring and insolvency work included
judicial reorganizations, debt
restructuring, and bankruptcy matters in the
real
estate,
aviation,
transportation,
banking and
finance,
telecommunications and infrastructure sectors.
In April of 2022, the
projects and
onfrastructure team recruited Miriam Signor from Stocche Forbes.
In October of 2022, the firm recruited
partner Bernardo Carneiro from
Chamon Santana to join the restructuring and insolvency and banking and finance teams.
The firm also recruited Felipe Camara from
E.Munhoz Advogados over the research
period to join the restructuring and insolvency team.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
ArcelorMittal
Brasil
$2.2 billion acquisition of Companhia Siderúrgica do
Pecém
Assaí Atacadista R$2.6 billion follow on offering
Cosan R$22 billion financing
JBS Food
$1.5 billion financing
NotreDame/Hapvida
$10 billion merger
SATS
$1.8 billion acquisition of Worldwide Flight Services
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
“Miriam has a strong background in EPC contracts structuring and
TSAs for generation projects.”
Machado Meyer Sendacz e Opice Advogados
Machado Meyer is one of the largest firms in Brazil. Founded in 1972, the firm has grown from their head office in São Paulo to add three other offices in Brazil in Rio de Janeiro, Belo
Horizonte and Brasília and one international office in New York.
In banking work, the firm
participates in complex transactions involving banks, financial institutions,
fintechs and investment funds, mostly
representing lenders.
The capital markets team
represents both issuers and underwriters and works on debt and equity transactions.
The M&A group
represents strategic buyers, private equity firms and sellers in a variety of transactions.
The project development and finance groups
represent mostly developers.
Across all practice areas the firm has a particular specialization in the telecoms, oil and gas, financial services, energy, retail, education and mining industries.
Because the firm mostly
represents lenders it has strong relationships with banks, especially multinational banks, including Banco BTG Pactual, Banco Citibank, BNP Paribas, BBVA Securities, Bank of America, Barclays Capital and Crédit Agricole. It also
maintains strong relationships with important state-owned Brazilian companies such as Petrobras.
Research period review: 33rd
edition (2022/2023)
During the research period the firm was active across banking, capital markets,
investment funds, M&A, private equity, projects and restructuring and insolvency.
The banking team
advised
more lenders than borrowers on cross-border
loans
for corporate and acquisition financing transactions.
The capital markets team was more active on the debt side,
advising notable banks as underwriters in
numerous debenture issuances and other public offerings.
The investment funds team was especially active in the agribusiness sector, advising on receivables funds
with ESG components.
The firm’s M&A and private equity work consisted of advising on public and private acquisitions
with a slight focus on the energy sector.
It advised more sellers than buyers.
The
projects team was heavily involved in the finance side, advising coordinating banks and other clients on project acquisitions, project issuances and project implementations across different sectors.
Restructuring and insolvency work included judicial restructurings primarily in the banking industry.
Deal highlights:
33rd edition (2022/2023)
ASTM
$3.4 billion bond issuance
Marfig Global Foods $1.1 billion financing
Samarco
Mineração $10.1 billion reorganization
São Paulo subway Line 6 PPP
Client feedback:
33rd edition (2022/2023)
“They have a very good technical knowledge, are fast and know very well the financial sector and its regulations.”
“They are
very good in this area and keep an extremely
good time.”
“Excellent professionals, with high skills and ownership.”
“They treat the client in a personalized way and conduct the work with agility.”
“Gustavo Rugani has an enormous knowledge of the Brazilian capital market. In addition, he and the rest of the team can innovate and have always followed our projects (which have always been the most complex).”
Capital markets:
Structured finance
“Technical knowledge,
availability and quality of deliverables.”
Financial services regulatory
“Responsive and very up to date on regulatory issues.”
Investment funds: Registered funds
“Machado Meyer's positive attributes include its deep understanding of Brazilian law and industry regulation, the great quality of documents, and its leadership in coordination of the deal, contributing to
timely execution and serving as a trusted adviser for a team which included a rigorous international investor.”
“Thales Saito has deep knowledge of the product, acting as constructively as possible to propose solutions and to challenge the status quo.”
Project development: Infrastructure
“Great market insights. Good dialogue with our business development team.”
“Exceptional performance, wide-ranging legal
knowledge and great understanding of the client's needs, always trying to look beyond the obvious. Extremely responsive and accessible.”
" Very
up to date on regulatory matters. He makes himself always available. Very responsive. Easy to discuss with and accepts feedback very well.”
“Outstanding performance, with great teamwork. Very developed legal skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving. Also, very positive attributes in communication and time management.”
“Alberto and teams know exactly what the client needs.”
“He is a very smart guy, shows plenty of knowledge and experience in the financial sector. Is
very creative in terms of structuring deals.”
“He is perfect in capital markets”
Gustavo Rugani
do Couto e Silva
“Customer service and depth in topics.”
“Gustavo Rugani, in my opinion, is the lawyer who best knows the Brazilian capital market.”
“He has deep understanding of laws and industry regulations, a respected lawyer who led efforts aligned with client interests, with a great network with an international investor that
participated actively in the process, and great problem-solving skills.”
“Knowledgeable and available.”
“Thales Saito has deep knowledge of the product, acting as constructively as possible to propose solutions and to challenge the status quo.”
“A young lawyer that shows plenty of understanding and knowledge about investment funds and market discussions. Very attentive and responsive. Very objective and goes straight to the point. Meets deadlines.”
“Very responsive and accepts any feedback very well.”
Mattos Filho Veiga Filho Marrey Jr & Quiroga Advogados
Established firm
Mattos Filho is one of the largest in Brazil with five offices: two in São Paulo, and one each in Campinas, Rio de
Janeiro and Brasília. It also has a physical international presence with offices in London and New York.
The firm is strong across all practice areas covered by the rankings. It is a top-tier transactional practice.
The banking team advises both borrowers and lenders in
numerous industries, but most notably the financial services and fintech industries. The group also works on debt restructuring, credit facility agreements and project finance transactions.
The capital markets team works on debt, equity, and securities regulation transactions on both the issuer and underwriter side.
The investment fund team is notable as it is a dedicated team, regularly advising on novel issues and the uses of complex funds.
The M&A team has a variety of experience working for public and private strategic buyers, private equity buyers and sellers in acquisitions, mergers and joint ventures across all industries.
The
projects team works on energy and infrastructure projects,
representing developers and financial sponsors.
The firm
maintains strong relationships with many of the world’s largest banking groups, including SoftBank, HSBC
Brasil, Barclays Bank, Citigroup, Deutsche Bank, IDB and Goldman Sachs. Other key clients include Petrobras, Klabin, Avon Group, Allianz Group, BP, Equinor and Pátria Investimentos.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Over the research period the firm was active in
banking,
capital markets, M&A,
projects and restructuring and insolvency.
The banking team worked with international development banks and financial institutions on complex financing transactions in the infrastructure sector.
In capital markets, the firm was active on the equity side, advising issuers and underwriters on IPOs and secondary offerings, some of which were linked to sustainability goals.
The M&A team
advised acquirers, sellers and merger parties in
significant private and public acquisitions and joint ventures. Energy, oil and gas, consumer goods and services and industrial and manufacturing are some of the
myriads of sectors the firm was involved in.
The projects team worked
on the development and finance side.
It advised EPC contractors and project companies on various renewable energy projects. The project finance team advised on financing matters with complex ESG components.
In restructuring and insolvency, the team
advised creditors
almost exclusively on debt restructurings and
cross-border bankruptcy proceedings.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Apollo Global Management
$1.5 billion
investment in New Fortress Energy
Atacadão
$1.4 billion acquisition of Walmart
Brasil
Constellation Group $883 million debt restructuring
Embraer/Zanite Acquisition Corp $2.9 billion merger
Mendubim Solar Power Plant project
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
“Knowledgeable and insightful.”
“The senior team has extensive experience, and they are very technical and business-forward.”
“The quality of the work
provided technical level of the team (impeccable)and the promptness of the team to respond to questions and meeting requests.”
“Diligent, competent, best service to the client and negotiation experts.”
“They have project finance deals experience and full availability.”
Project development: Energy
“They offer very refined technical capacity, focused on problem solving. The team focuses on the issue, paying attention to all the details of the case, always seeking the best solution.”
Project development: Infrastructure
“Mattos Filho is involved in all high-profile deals in the infrastructure segment in Brazil. Their partners are hand-on and have a great response time. Since Mattos Filho is the only firm in which the infrastructure practice is segmented into different niches, their experience and coverage is impressive. By far, they are the leading firm in terms of revenue and market coverage.”
“Client-focused and commercially minded. Pragmatic approaches to complex problems. Committed to deal success.”
“Exceptional performance, wide-ranging legal
knowledge and great understanding of the client's needs, always trying to look beyond the obvious. Extremely responsive and accessible.”
“In 2022, Alexandre
Arlota led several negotiations for the implementation of greenfield projects. Among other high-profile contracts, Alexandre was the lead partner in the negotiation of construction contracts for transmission lines. His work is outstanding. He can deal with the most complex commercial and technical issues and is always available. He is our go-to lawyer for everything related to project development.”
“Knowledge,
speed and attention.”
“Hands-on and detail focused. Extremely sharp and able to convey complex issues clearly and effectively.”
“Objectivity, transparency and hands-on.”
“He is an expert in M&A and negotiation.”
Menna.Barreto Advogados
Founded in 2013,
Eduardo Menna Barreto
Socidedade de
Advogadosis a Brazilian firm based in São Paulo.
The firm focuses on strategic transactions in the M&A practice area, advising national and international clients.
The firm’s key clients include
Armazéns Gerais
Murundu, Extreme Digital Consultoria e
Representacões, Ionic Health Technologies and Mania de Churrasco.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
The firm was active in the corporate and M&A practice area this research cycle.
The firm’s corporate and M&A practice mostly advised clients on various confidential matters.
Pinheiro Guimarães
Formed in 1922,
Pinheiro Guimarães is a nationally recognized firm with offices in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
The firm is highly regarded in the corporate and projects areas but is
perhaps best known for its work in banking and capital markets.
In the banking area it works on debt restructurings, loan issuances and credit facilities, advising both borrowers and lenders.
The capital markets team
represents both debt and equity issuers and underwriters on public offerings, tender offers, debenture issuances and bond issuances.
In the M&A practice area the firm
represents strategic buyers, sellers and private equity investment firms in mergers,
acquisitions and joint ventures. The team works on both public and private M&A.
The project development and finance team represent mostly developers and borrowers in energy related projects.
The firm has cultivated strong relationships with banks and investment groups, which include Itaú Unibanco, Banco BTG Pactual, Banco Rabobank, Inter-American Investment Corporation, Banco do
Brasil, International Finance Corporation, Banco Santander, XP Investimentos, Citigroup and the IDB.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Over the research period the firm was active in banking and finance, capital markets, investment funds, M&A, private equity,
project development and restructuring and insolvency.
The banking team
participated in
several cross-border financing transactions, advising lenders and borrowers equally.
The debt capital markets team was heavily engaged in bond issuances and other securitizations primarily in the healthcare, energy and financial services sectors. The firm
advised underwriters,
arrangers and issuers.
The equity department was active in significant offerings including cross-border IPOs.
The firm’s investment funds work included advising underwriters and asset managers on fund structuring and public offerings exclusively in the banking sector.
The M&A team was active across multiple industries including energy, technology and healthcare,
mainly advising acquirers and sellers on cross-border and domestic acquisitions
In private equity, the firm was occupied with domestic private acquisitions in the banking and energy sectors. The
projects team represented multiple developers in the renewable energy sector.
For project development, the firm focused on the energy sector, advising developers
on various project acquisitions, supply contracts and other related agreements. On
the finance side, the firm worked with development banks and other international financial institutions as sponsors and lenders for projects. The team also advised borrowers in the energy sector.
The firm’s
restructuring and Insolvency work
mainly included
advising
creditors on judicial reorganizations
in the financial services,
banking
and energy sectors.
In
June of 2022,
Paloma Valéria Martins
Lima came from
Lefosse Advogados to join the banking and finance and projects
teams.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
CSN Cimentos
$1 billion acquisition of
LafargeHolcim
Jallas Machado R$700 million acquisition of Santa Vitória Açúcar e
Álcool
Nova
Transportadora do
Sudeste R$3.5 billion bond issuance
Rede D'Or São Luiz R$2.375 billion bond issuance
São Paulo's Metro Line 6
project
Sendas Distribuidora
$1 billion acquisition of Extra
Hiper
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
“It is the best law firm for capital markets in Brazil.”
Capital markets: High yield
“Pinheiro Guimarães is very technical, proactive and is always on top of the most
recent trends in the area.”
“They are extremely knowledgeable on the Brazilian infrastructure space and have a lot of M&A experience. They are easy to work with and understand our needs fluently. And they are always available when we need them.”
Project development: Infrastructure
“Pinheiro Guimarães' lawyers always act proactively, concerned with the company's best interest but also worried about the legal aspects and with a partnership spirit to comply with short deadlines.”
“Rene is reliable and always available as needed.
He takes the time to listen and also to pull in support as needed.
He's great to work with.”
“Fernanda is a very proactive and intelligent lawyer and an excellent negotiator in complex contracts.”
“Best lawyer for capital markets in Brazil.”
“He is extremely effective at understanding the client's needs and adjusting his approach to match them. He's smart,
reliable and easygoing too.”
“She is very technical and at the same time pragmatic and business oriented.”
“Isabela is very proactive, intelligent, kind and is an excellent negotiator in complex contracts.”
Pinheiro Neto Advogados
Founded in 1942,
Pinheiro Neto is a full-service firm in Brazil. It has grown to three Brazilian locations: São Paulo, Rio de
Janeiro and Brasília, and two international locations: Tokyo and Palo Alto. The firm takes
great pride in its gender diversity initiatives.
The firm is high performing and known for its financial and corporate and
projects practices.
The banking and finance team is a leading practice in financial services, banking and fintech. It
represents lenders and borrowers, often on novel transactions.
Capital markets work for the firm includes debt,
equity and securitization transactions,
representing both issuers and underwriters.
The investment funds department
provides advice on structured funds, real estate investment funds, private equity investment funds,
ETF’s and receivables investment funds.
The M&A team advises buyers and sellers in strategic and public transactions and mergers.
The project finance and development team represent developers and financial sponsors in construction, energy, infrastructure, oil and gas and transport industry projects.
The firm
maintains strong relationships with many international banks and investment groups such as Goldman Sachs do
Brasil Banco
Múltiplo, JP Morgan, Banco Santander, Citibank, Bank of America Merrill
Lynch and XP Investimentos. The
firm’s other key clients include
Neoenergia, CPFL Energia, Boeing and Natura.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Over the research period, the firm was active in banking and finance, capital markets, investment funds, M&A, private equity, projects and restructuring and insolvency.
The banking department worked with more borrowers than lenders on acquisition financing transactions in the technology and financial services
sectors.
In capital markets the firm was active on the equity and debt side,
advising underwriters and issuers on green bond issuances as well as
follow on offerings primarily in the financial services industry.
The investment fund department
advised
financial institutions on credit
rights investment funds and private equity funds.
The firm’s M&A work consisted of public and private acquisitions as well as mergers, most of which was concentrated in the energy sector.
In private equity, the firm was active in various sectors including financial services, energy, agriculture,
technology and real estate, advising buyers and sellers in domestic and cross-border transactions.
The
projects team
participated in the financing and development of projects, especially sanitation projects. The firm was also
well engaged in the mining and transport
sectors among others.
In restructuring and insolvency,
the firm participated in insolvency proceedings and restructurings with high market impacts mostly
in the financial services,
agriculture and mining sectors.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Cielo R$3 billion bond issue
Gerdau $875 million
financing
LATAM Airlines Group
Chapter 11
Localiza/Unidas
$10 billion merger
Mubadala R$8 billion acquisition of
Atvos Group
TIM R$16.5 billion acquisition of Oi
Móvel
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
“In-depth regulatory knowledge of Brazilian banking law.”
“They have a lot of knowledge in different fields. They are referenced in Brazil. The projects with the participation of Guilherme Monteiro were successful.”
“Deep
expertise in contracts, regulation and commercial aspects related to this issuance profile.”
“They show technical
expertise,
consideration and agility.”
“They are knowledgeable, sophisticated and solutions orientated.”
“Diligent and business friendly.”
“They are very quick at
providing feedback and are available for the calls.”
“They have business and legal knowledge and client orientation. They provide the availability of the senior team, with the personal involvement of senior partners, and a founder mentality, acting as if they were owners of the client.”
“Problem-solving ability, good listening, good
expertise in capital markets regulation, including commercial aspects, etc.”
“Bruno is certainly the best lawyer in banking law in Brazil. He has a deep knowledge of banking products and the challenges of financial institutions and always brings safe solutions to the problems presented.”
“Roberta is
dynamic, and solutions oriented. We are always happy to have her on our side of the table during negotiations.”
“She
provides client care, communication and is business friendly.”
“Alexandre is very responsive, hands-on, results-focused and open to discussions and innovative solutions.”
“Deep knowledge of our business and of the law, always focused on finding the best solution for the
company and aligned with our values. He has
a founders' mentality, acting as if he was one of the owners of the company. Without doubt he is a part of our team.”
“Guilherme is a person with a lot of knowledge in addition to concerning the legal sector. He knows a lot about the sector in which my company operates. His team that
assisted us is extremely dedicated and efficient like him. He is always very attentive, and the fees have excellent cost/benefit.”
“Rodolfo is calm, knowledgeable, available and has a great focus on resolution.”
Santos Neto Advogados
Founded in 1992,
Santos Neto has developed into a notable full-service law firm. The firm boasts two offices, one in São Paulo and the other in New York.
The firm is best known for its work in the corporate and capital markets practice areas.
The banking and finance team
represents borrowers and lenders in transactions related to export facilities, syndicated loans, debt restructurings and loan financing.
The capital markets team specializes in debt work, specifically CRA’s, bonds issuances and real estate credit notes, mostly representing the underwriters. The team also works with issuers.
The M&A team advises investment fund buyers and sellers in acquisitions and corporate restructurings.
The firm has developed industry
expertise in agribusiness,
banking and financial services.
The firm has developed strong relationships with banking institutions including Rabobank, Crédit Agricole Corporate Investment Bank, Sumitomo, Amerra Capital Management and Banco Azteca.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Over the past research cycle the firm has been active in banking,
capital markets, investment funds,
M&A and restructuring and insolvency.
In banking, the firm was engaged in sustainability linked cross-border financing transactions in the banking and agriculture sectors. The firm worked almost exclusively with lenders.
The capital markets department delivered experienced advice on multiple agribusiness receivable certificate offerings and also advised on several debt offerings.
The firm’s investment funds department was active in the real estate and agribusiness sectors
and also advised on confidential matters.
In M&A, the firm’s work included a joint venture in the real estate sector. It was also involved in confidential matters.
In restructuring and insolvency, the team
was mostly active in the investment management sector,
advising creditors in relation to chapter 11 proceedings.
In August of 2022, the firm recruited partner Nicolau Nardi from ABN AMRO to join the banking and finance and capital markets teams.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Caramuru $150 million financing
Lavoura Group
restructuring
Moreno Group R$1 billion financing
Sucafina $400 million financing
Usina
Virgolino Oliveira
restructuring
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Bank lending: Lender side
“Business-orientated,
timely and worked in partnership.”
“They
provide excellent knowledge of the agribusiness in Brazil, availability, flexibility and effectiveness and a good cost/benefit ratio.”
“The partners know very well the particularities of the Brazilian agro-industrial environment and, thus, help us to conduct the business more swiftly and accurately.”
“Expertise in the sector, up to date knowledge on legislation, and availability.”
“Great
expertise, notably in agribusiness and real estate.”
“Always available, great technical and local knowledge, objectivity, never over-promises, always very realistic.”
“Helpful and gave attention to details.”
Capital markets: Structured finance and securitization
“Availability and
expertise in financial operations and capital markets.”
“The law firm is extremely diligent, attentive and fulfils all promises.”
“Santos Neto's representatives were supportive, made themselves clear while working with the company's M&A team, wrote all documents as requested. The experience was
very positive.”
“Commitment, proactivity,
agility and assertiveness.”
“Always available, great technical and local knowledge, objectivity, never over-promises, always very realistic.”
Fernando Bilotti Ferreira
“Good teamwork and business oriented.”
“He is always available, has
very good technical knowledge, and is objective and practical.”
“Knowledge, availability,
flexibility and proximity.”
“He has knowledge and a client-oriented approach.”
“Knows everything in Brazil, from a law and business perspective. Very well connected. Always available to help and solve problems. One of the best lawyers.”
“Knowledge, availability, flexibility and proximity.”
“Extremely engaged and intelligent. He understands a lot about the agribusiness market, which makes negotiation a lot easier.”
“They were both
much supportive and attentive while working with the legal M&A team, showed their ability to give feedback on time, prepared very well-written documents and were communicative.”
“Francisco is always available and has been key in an arbitration process. He is very dedicated and has a great depth of knowledge.”
“Accessible,
committed and agile.”
“Extremely engaged and intelligent. He understands a lot about the agribusiness market, which makes negotiation a lot easier.”
“They were both
very supportive and attentive while working with the legal M&A team, showed their ability to give feedback on time, prepared very
well written documents and were communicative.”
“Giuliana is a very proactive and skilled lawyer who I worked with last year on a tough project, and she helped us through it with her sense of urgency and responsibility.”
“Client-oriented,
knowledgeable and available.”
“Knowledge, hands-on
approach and availability.”
“Matheus
Ziliotti has great technical insights and pays a lot of attention to detail.”
“Very grounded.
Great knowledge. Straight and
objective. Good in negotiations.”
“Availability,
expertise and knowledge of the business and risks involved in the operations.”
“Helpful, gives attention to detail and excellent accessibility.”
Stocche Forbes Advogados
Stocche Forbes is highly regarded across most practice areas but is perhaps best known for its work in project finance. It
operates from four locations across Brazil: São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro,
Brasília and Belo Horizonte.
The banking and finance team has
expertise in acquisition finance, cross-border
financing and credit facilities,
representing mostly lenders.
The capital markets team works across debt and equity transactions, for both issuers and underwriters. The team works on debentures issuances, public offerings and bond offerings.
The M&A team advises investment funds, strategic buyers and sellers in funding,
acquisitions and joint ventures. The team works across
numerous industries, including energy, oil and gas, financial
services and technology.
The project development team advises many developers and financial sponsors in the finance aspects of transactions. It is active in the oil and gas, energy and infrastructure industries.
The firm has a plethora of key clients in the banking and energy industries, including Banco Santander, Teekay Offshore Partners, Engie Brasil Energia, Syncreon Group,
Pátria Investimentos, FTV Capital, Banco BTG Pactual and Banco Itaú.
Research period review:
33rd edition (2022/2023)
Over the research period the firm was active in banking and finance, capital markets,
investment funds,
M&A, private
equity and projects.
The banking team
advised lenders and borrowers on international financing transactions with ESG components.
The firm’s debt capital markets work included green bond issuances and other securitizations in various industries such as transport infrastructure, banking, energy, sanitation,
technology and consumer goods.
The equity side was involved in domestic share offerings
mainly in the energy sector.
The investment funds team was immersed in the investment management sector as well as the real estate industry. The firm
assisted fund managers on quota offerings.
In M&A and private equity teams were involved in cross-border acquisitions. The M&A team specifically advised on
mergers and joint ventures with distinctly complex structures
in the energy sector.
The project development team was busy with confidential matters. In project finance, the firm
advised more lenders than borrowers in
the banking, energy and oil and gas industries. Some transactions had cross-border elements.
In April of 2022,
partner Miriam Signor
departed from the firm’s banking practice to join
Lefosse Advogados.
Deal highlights:
33rd edition (2022/2023)
Companhia
Securitizadora de
Créditos
Financeiros
Cartões
Consignados II R$1.2 billion bond issuance
Equatorial Energia R$4 billion green bond issuance
Floating Infrastructure Intermediate
$1.5 billion acquisition financing
Mubadala Investment Company R$1.7 billion acquisition of Instituto de Ensino
em
Saúde
Patria Investments R$1.73 billion acquisition of Contour Global do
Brasil
Client feedback:
33rd edition (2022/2023)
“They are fast, bring innovative ideas and always think of the best for the client and the market in general.”
“Completely hands-on and pragmatic approach based on in-depth knowledge of the applicable legislation.”
“Stocche Forbes honors its name as one of the highest-performing law firms in Brazil. With a very professional and proactive team, its technical
capacity to develop and discuss complex deals is especially outstanding.”
Compromise and knowledge.
“Stocche Forbes' positive attributes are ownership, knowledge of the business, great knowledge of the legislation, and negotiating skills.”
Project development: Energy
“Their legal experts
provided
very good service during the contract negotiation and during claims litigations.”
“They have
great experience and technical knowledge and
are able to offer great advice and
assistance on
very complex matters.”
“Vast experience and responsiveness combined with excellent partner involvement.”
“He is the best Brazil project finance lawyer working in Brazil.”
“Technically competent, proactive, and always available, Bruno is a great professional to be on your side of the table.”
“In-depth knowledge of the applicable legislation and pragmatic approach during negotiations.”
“He offers trust,
knowledge and compromise.”
“He has a relationship with the clients.”
“She
provides innovative solutions, knowledge of legislation and of the business, and great negotiating skills.”
“She is an expert in EPC contracts and litigations and has
a very strong background in the Brazilian energy sector. Always available and easy to
keep in touch with.”
“Deep legal knowledge and relationship.”
“Great knowledge and experience in the sector. Understands clients' needs.”
TozziniFreire Advogados
Opened in 1976,
TozziniFreire is large full-service Brazilian firm with offices in seven locations: two in São Paulo and branches in Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, Porto Alegre,
Campinas and New York.
The firm has been a part of the global law network World Law Group since 1993, and a part of the Pacific Rim Advisory Council for almost 20 years.
The banking team
represents borrowers and lenders in a variety of regulatory and transactional financing types including acquisition finance, credit facilities, refinancing, syndicated loans and cross border financing.
The capital markets team deals with debt and equity matters including debentures, CRA’s, bond issuances and public offerings.
Investment fund work for the firm includes advice in private equity, receivables, venture capital, and real estate.
The M&A team
represents mostly strategic buyers, but also sellers and private equity in acquisitions and joint ventures.
The project development team works mostly in the infrastructure and energy industries, where they
represent concessionaires
Key clients for the firm include Banco Santander, Morgan Stanley, Omni
CréditoFinanciamento e Investimento, Femsa Comercio, China Jinjiang Environment Holding Company and Brazil’s Departamento de Estradas de
Rodagem.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
During the research period, the firm was active in banking, capital markets,
investment funds,
private equity, projects and restructuring and insolvency.
The banking team
advised syndicated banks and other lenders in cross-border corporate and acquisition financing deals across various industries.
In capital markets, the firm was active on the debt side,
advising issuers on unique sustainability linked bond issuances and other agribusiness related securitizations.
The investment fund team advised on
innovative FIAGRO in the agribusiness sector as well as other quota issuances in the real estate &
infrastructure sectors.
The firm’s private equity work involved several international clients and
highly impactful investments in the fintech and financial services industries.
Projects wise the firm
provided regulatory advice on complex matters such as project privatizations primarily in the energy sector.
On the finance side, the firm worked on complex offerings and issuances in the transport and energy sectors.
The restructuring and insolvency team advised creditors and debtors on several judicial reorganizations and debt restructuring proceedings.
In March of 2022, the firm’s project finance department gained Caio Loureiro as a
partner coming from Cascione
Pulino.
In August of 2022, the firm recruited Pedro Eroles
from Mattos Filho to join the banking and finance, capital markets and investment funds team.
Also in 2022, Francisco
Eumene Machado de Oliveira Neto
departed from the firm’s private equity practice.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Coruripe Netherlands $300 million 10% bond issuance
Faro Holding $825 million bond issuance
Itapoá $150 million bond issuance
Kinross Gold
$1 billion financing
Novelis Corporation
$2 billion financing
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
“TozziniFreire stands out at the crossroads of capital markets and impact financial instruments and has
assisted the bank in the creation and implementation of innovative financial arrangements. That said, the TozziniFreire team quickly understands our challenges, and brings solutions with innovation, assertiveness and legal robustness.”
“Responsiveness, business orientation, partnership, deep technical knowledge.”
“Tozzini lawyers are trained as business-orientated, reasonable, attentive and get all technical aspects of a deal but, at the same, are able to abstract and adapt.”
Project development: Energy
“We have worked with several law firms for M&A and have crossed paths with
Tozzini several times. It was in this context that we met partner Silvia Castro Cunha, with whom we developed our relationship. TozziniFreire is one of the largest full-service law firms in Brazil and has great
expertise in M&A transactions. The lawyers working at the firm are highly qualified and the M&A practice is well
consolidated and
organised. They are consistently involved in the main transactions in the Brazilian market.”
“Alexei is always ready to receive the bank's legal demands and has
strong communication, analytical and creative problem-solving skills, with integrity and a strong work ethic.”
“One of the most business-oriented lawyers in the region.”
“Fabiola is a professional outside the curve, always very responsive, kind, practical, always combining business and technical vision.”
“Juliana Maluf is a great lawyer and very responsive.”
Marcus Vinicius Pimentel da Fonseca
“He is available, easy to
comprehend and knowledgeable.”
“Marcus holds strong commercial and technical skills, analytical abilities, work ethic, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving skills. He is an expert on bringing innovative financial solutions to the market, from legal and regulatory perspectives.”
“Beatriz Seixas is a great lawyer and very responsive.”
“Silvia Castro Cunha is our main contact at TozziniFreire. In addition to being an excellent project leader, she has deep technical knowledge in the M&A area; she has already achieved notoriety in the market. She speaks English with
a high level of fluency, she is pragmatic and result-oriented, as well as always being available 24/7 and present in all phases of the transaction, at any time or day, which makes a big difference for us. She is also surrounded by highly qualified professionals. She is a pro-deal lawyer, always focusing on making business feasible, and experienced in
highly complex operations. Finally, she handles people very well (she is a people person) and navigates very well on matters that require operational and commercial knowledge of our business.”
Almeida Advogados
Founded in 2001, Almeida Advogados is an M&A focused firm that has since branched into other practice areas. It operates out of five offices located in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasilia, Belo Horizonte and Recife.
Focusses / specialisms
M&A is an important practice area for the firm. It advises local and international clients
on joint ventures,
buy-and-sale acquisitions and mergers. Sector strengths include telecommunications, technology and construction.
Key
clients
Key clients include Aeroméxico, Getty Images, FIS Group, Grupo Forte and Walmart.
Amaral Lewandowski Advogados
Founded in 2012, Amaral Lewandowski Advogados advises local and international clients in corporate and transactional matters. It is based in Sao Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The corporate and M&A group at the firm advises clients in joint ventures, mergers and cross-border acquisitions.
Key clients
Clients for the firm include, Centrales Hidroelectricas de Centro America, Wireless Comm Services, Brazil Energy, Salberg and Eninsa.
Client feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
Asset finance
"They are very technical, patient, ethical. They have also an excellent lawyers structure to attend to our demand in all aspects."
Bank lending : Lender side
"Diligence. Knowledge. Influence. Transparency. "
M&A
"They are great strategists and executors that provide good counselling. "
"They are very agile, capable and have a lot of knowledge in the areas in which we work with them. But most important, they have very good communication with us and are very helpful regarding all our doubts."
"They integrate legal demands direct with accounting firms and other external consultants, leading all processes until we get the final approval for all documents needed in our corporate structure. "
Project development
"Professional foundation processing and supervision of process."
Restructuring : Corporate
"Very good understanding of the different opportunities to simplify and provide the best taxation for a group of companies. Good vision on short and medium term."
Araúz Advogados
Founded in 2000, Araúz Advogados has grown to eight locations across Brazil in: Curitiba, Toledo, Londrina, Maringá, São Paulo, Sinop, Cruz Alta and Itajaí. The firm is known for its corporate work, but also places an emphasis on its social impact and agribusiness work.
Focusses / specialisms
In transactional work the firm has a focus on corporate deals and in M&A mostly represents strategic buyers. Industries the team specialise include agribusiness, aviation, health and real estate.
Key clients
Key clients include C.Vale, Pluma Agroavícola, Paynow do Brasil, Master Vigilância Especializada, Helisul Táxi Aéreo, Bello Alimentos and Kepler Weber.
Azevedo Sette Advogados
Founded in 1967,
Azevedo Sette
Advogadosis a well-developed firm with offices in
São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasilia, Belo Horizonte and Recife.
The firm is strong in banking and finance, capital markets, M&A and project development work.
In banking and finance, the firm has a great track record advising banks and other financial institutions in industries such as agribusiness, construction, energy, telecommunication,
mining, technology and automotive.
The capital markets team is skilled on the equity and debt side, advising on public and private offerings as well as various complex securitizations.
The firm’s best M&A work consists of significant mergers and acquisitions in which the firm exemplifies versatility by advising buyers and sellers. It
advises domestic and foreign clients
in various transactions including restructuring and joint ventures.
In projects the firm excels on the development and finance side, leveraging its banking expertise as well as its knowledge of the
administrative aspects of projects.
Baptista Luz Advogados
Established in 2004, Baptista Luz Advogados is a growing law firm with a focus in corporate law. The firm has five offices, with locations in Sao Paulo, Florianopolis, Londrina, Porto Alegre, and Miami, Florida.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is known for their work with venture capital and M&A. The team advises on corporate structuring, joint-ventures and operational agreements. The M&A team advises both buyers and sellers in transactions.
Key clients
Key clients include Vencofarma, Grupo Pão de Açúca, Hi Platform, Estee Lauder and Medcom.
Bastos Bari Vilela Zugman
Founded in 2018, Bastos Bari Vilela Zugman Advogados is young and highly regarded Brazilian firm based in Såo Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a reputable M&A team that specializes in the energy sector as well as in private equity.
Key clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include Modularis, Starpay, Swipe, FRAM Capital, Vila Energia, Classy Brands, Ujay Capital and Coupa Software.
Becegato, Nastromagario e Saad Advogados (BNS Law)
Corrêa Meyer a Natromagario Advogados was founded in 2003. The firm is known for its professional work and innovative solutions. The firm has one location in Sao Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The corporate and M&A team at the firm is known for its work advising clients on corporate reorganizations and restructurings. The team also assists clients on establishing businesses, due diligence for mergers, spin offs and wind ups.
Key clients
Key clients include, EA Brazil, GTIS Partners Group, Pátria Investimentos, Hitachi Vantara Administração de Dados do Brasil and WMB COMÉRCIO ELETRÔNICO.
Benetti & Giammarino Advogados
Established in 2020,
BK & Partners
is an upcoming firm led by
talented partners with decades of experience between them.
The firm’s founding partner is Eduardo Benetti.
The firm is particularly experienced in advising on corporate matters and M&A transactions.
It is also adept in banking and finance as well as private equity work. Diverse industries such as automotive, consumer goods, media, technology and telecommunications all fall under the firm’s catalogue of specialties.
Some of the firm’s key clients include Almaviva Group,
Frango Gonzalez Group,
Habitat Capital Partners,
Navve Brand Publishers,
Oazi Sports,
Pieracciani Group and
Red Ventures.
Bichara Advogados
Bichara
Advogados was founded in 2001. The firm has five offices in Brazil, with locations in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasilia, Belo Horizonte and Vitória.
The corporate law department is known for its work in providing day-to-day assistance, structuring investments for foreign clients to invest in Brazilian companies, debt structuring and regulatory advice.
The firm’s capital markets work is known for its work on national and international bond issuances.
M&A work at the firm is active in areas like joint ventures and debt acquisition and restructuring.
The project development team is primarily focused on environmental work. The department is segmented into a variety of different focuses, including energy, telecommunication, oil and gas,
transportation, infrastructure, mining and more.
Clients include, Eldorado
Brasil Celulose,
Âmbar Energia, Salinor,MRSLogística and Usinas Itamarati.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
“Team is very thoughtful, skilled and agile. Partner is one of the best M&A
lawyers in the market.”
“They are fast responsive and extremely available.”
Bocater Camargo Costa & Silva Rodrigues Advogados
Established in 1999,
Bocater Camargo Costa & Silva Rodrigues Advogadosis a Brazilian firm that frequently engages in domestic and international transactions.
The firm specializes in
corporate and M&A practice, advising clients in different sectors such as financial services, energy, oil and gas, mining and technology. It
is especially capable in matters that require the
authorization of
Brazilian public authorities and agencies.
Key clients
Some key clients of the firm are Bombril, Embraer, Impacto Energia, Usiminas, Banco Safra, Neoenergia, Terra Santo Agro,
BTG Pactual and Investimentos e
ParticipacõesemInfraestrutura.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
“The law firm has
notorious expertise on these issues.”
Bronstein Zilberberg Chueiri & Potenza
Bronstein Zilberberg
Chueiri & Potenza
is a
premier and versatileBrazilian firm
located in
Såo Paulo.
The firm consistently advises on complex transactions in M&A, private equity and investment funds. It has earned a reputation for representing investors and sellers in landmark Brazilian transactions.
The firm has amassed an elite list of clients such as Mercado Libre, Qualcomm Ventures,
Kinea,
Inovabra,
Positivo and
Singia. It also has experience working with notable technology unicorns
such as
NuBank,
Creditas, Loft,
MadeiraMadeira and Wildlife.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
“Flexible, easy to work with, hustlers that get it done.”
“They are the best, they fight for us, and they are very sharp in contracts”
BSBC Advogados
Founded in 2018, Borba, Simões Barbosa, Bessone, Cristofaro, or BSBC is a law firm specializing in transactional work and strategic litigation. It is headquartered in Rio de Janeiro.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm specializes in business deals and strategic litigation. The team advises on negotiation of partnerships, establishing joint ventures and other transactions. The team has worked on deals in mining, retail, hotel, education, entertainment and healthcare.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Anglo American Group, Anglo Pacific Group, Mineração Tanagra and Gustavo Simões Barbosa.
Client feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
Project development : Mining
"They helped me to correct some agreement items and reinforced my position."
Candido Martins Advogados
Brazilian boutique
Candido Martins was founded in 2010 and maintains an office in São Paulo.
The firm has a focus on M&A and is active in debt capital markets work.
The banking and capital markets teams work across numerous industries including agribusiness, real estate and energy, mainly representing middle market issuers. It is active in investment funds, advising clients on receivables structuring and acquisitions. Capital markets work is stronger and more focused
in debt than equity.
The M&A team advises strategic and private equity buyers and sellers on deals in industries such as agribusiness, technology, consumer goods and services and logistics.
Key clients for Candido Martins comprise of Eastman Kodak Company, Companhia Nacional de Alcool,
Agro Efficiency
Participações, BIP Holding do
Brasil,Aqua Capital and
Raizen.
Client feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
“Deal oriented, well prepared and total availability”
"DEVELOPING DOCUMENTS AND negotiate the points of interest and legal procedures”
M&A
In addition to the competitive fees, their profound knowledge and great experience are put into practice in a very business-driven manner without leaving any relevant aspects behind. "
"Technical expertise."
Castro Barros Advogados
Founded in 1953,
Castro Barros Sobral Gomes
is a
full-service firm with branches located in Brasília, São Paulo, Lisbon and Rio de Janeiro.
The firm frequently has its hands in complex M&A transactions as well as corporate reorganizations in various sectors such as healthcare, insurance, retail, transportation, agribusiness, fintech and financial services. It specializes in advising domestic and international clients on the buyer side.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
“They are reliable lawyers, that work as a team with the client, with strong background in M&A and finance
restructuring.”
Cescon Barrieu
Cescon
Barrieu is a nationally recognized Brazilian firm with five offices located in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte,
Brasília and Salvador.
The firm’s strengths lie in M&A, debt capital markets and project finance.
The banking and finance and capital markets teams have developed strong relationships with international banks, and so most of the banking and project finance transactions are on the lender side.
The debt and equity capital markets team
is focused on the technology and energy industries, working with both issuers and underwriters.
In M&A the team works mostly with strategic buyers and private equity.
The project development team advises developers in all industries, but is particularly active in energy, infrastructure and oil and gas projects.
Key clients of the firm include Oaktree Capital Management, TMF
Brasil, Banco de Investimentos Credit Suisse,
Banoc Modal, Morgan Stanley, Deutsche Bank Securities and
PetroRio.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
During the research period, the firm was active in banking and finance, capital markets, investment funds, M&A,
projects and restructuring and insolvency.
The banking team
maintained its position of counsel to unique
clients in the fintech industry,
advising them in complex regulatory matters. The team also advised clients on
large-scale cross-border financing transactions.
In capital markets debt, the firm advised clients on innovative bond issuances including sustainability linked bonds. The team was highly active in the agribusiness sector. The equity team
advised issuers and bookrunners on cross-border IPOs and share offerings.
Most of the firm’s investment funds transactions were in the financial services industry, with energy and healthcare being some of the only exceptions. The team advised on fund formation and raising transactions that involved development banks and other international clients.
M&A deals for the firm included
acquisitions, joint
ventures and corporate reorganizations primarily in the renewable energy sector.
Most of the acquisitions were private.
The
projects team was active on the development and financing sides, engaging in
innovative projects in the oil and gas,
energy and transport industries.
While financial services were the main industry focus for the restructuring and insolvency team, the department was active in a myriad of sectors. The firm
advised more creditors than debtors in
complex judicial reorganizations.
In October of 2022, both
partners Fábio
Rosas and José Luis de Rosas
departed from the firm’s restructuring
and insolvency department to join
Lefosse
Advogados.
In February of 2023,
partner Andrea Barbosa Campos was recruited from Paul Hastings to join the
corporate and M&A team.
As a part of its strategy to increase its presence abroad, the firm has opened a new office in Toronto.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Aegea Saneamento $500 million bond issuance
Angra 3 nuclear power plant
project
Banco
do
Brasil
$500 million financing
Equatorial
$1.4 billion acquisition of
Echoenergia
LatAm Airlines $3.7 billion
DIP financing
Marfrig Global Foods $400 million bond issuance
OceanPact Serviços
Marítimos B3 IPO
River Tietê Depollution
project
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Bank lending: Lender side
“Expertise, timing and conducting tough
negotiation with third parties.”
“Responsive, pragmatic, technical.”
“All members of the team are available at any time to discuss any matter you might need. The best team you can hire is the one dedicated to debt issues. This specific team is known for the ability to foresee any need the client may have and to
provide a solution before demanded.”
“Very knowledgeable, pragmatic and business-driven approach.”
“Cescon has a high-level group of attorneys in capital markets, they are very skilled and know the regulations and are up to date with capital markets practices, providing an outstanding job and giving the client a comfort zone, especially in IPOs.”
Capital market: Structured finance and
securitization
“Good knowledge about Brazilian regulation on structured finance and fast on delivering on their assignments.”
“I was impressed by the service
capacity, in terms of strategy, experience and volume of work. A
qualified and numerous
team.”
“Cescon
Barrieu has a high standard in what concerns the attention provided to their clients. Partners are
closely involved in the deals.”
“CBFB has
great experience in both energy law and M&A, which was fundamental to the
great success of the operation. Here in Brazil, the electric sector has massive legal regulation, and their deep knowledge in such area was fundamental to the conclusion of the deal.”
“They are a qualified team, with experience in the area and quick in responses.”
“Highly attentive to the short deadlines of the project, business-orientated approach to all matters discussed with the banks, and showed significant experience with the players at hand, which was extremely on point to close the deal.”
“The Cescon team is very
available, and detail orientated. They have an impressive technique and
provide good solutions for our business issues.”
Isabella Ali
Pontual Braga
“Isabella
Pontual Braga is by far the most promising talent in Cescon
Barrieu. Despite being young for her position, she is the focus point for complex debt financing projects and
masters all the documents,
deadlines and procedures better than anyone involved.
She is able to deliver materials to short deadlines. She is the main reason we refer Cescon
Barrieu debt team to any of our partner companies. Without doubt, the smartest girl in the room.”
“Super-responsive to the short deadlines of the project, highly business-oriented approach.”
Manoela Darcy de Oliveira Miranda
“Manoela has a deep knowledge of corporate law and M&A and is a very pleasant attorney to work with – great hard and soft skills.”
“Cinthia is always available and
provides solid solutions for our propositions.”
“Knowledge, experience, communicability and availability.”
“Technical, responsive, pro-deal, solution driven.”
“A quick thinker, responsive, deep knowledge of the law, and a business-driven approach.”
“Knowledge, conduct through negotiation, and timing.”
“Knowledge, conduct through negotiations.”
“Eduardo Lanna has a deep knowledge of M&A. He is an experienced lawyer with several deals in his curriculum. Eduardo is business-oriented and hands-on.”
“He has knowledge of the subject, innovative and technical solutions, and is always accessible and quick with answers.”
“Daniel is a young star lawyer. He has a deep knowledge of capital markets and can
assist not only in debt but in equity discussions. An excellent negotiator for debt renegotiations and very skilled in equity matters.”
“He has a good knowledge of substantive and procedural law and a sharp strategic vision.”
“Fernanda is a great lawyer and is comfortable
providing legal services in any matter related to capital markets.”
Coelho & Dalle
Founded in 2007, Coelho & Dalle
is a well-developed firm with great domestic and abroad experience. The firm has offices in
São Paulo, Recife and Fortaleza.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is skilled in corporate reorganizations as well as M&A transactions on the buyer and seller side. It has done excellent work in the healthcare, insurance, transportation, construction, chemical and energy industries.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include Vinci Partners, Ambipar Group, ProInfusion, Pixxel, Hapvida, Drogafonte, Drumattos, Valutia Capital, Rio Ave Group, LOS Group, Koblitz Energia, Colorado Group and SimCo.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
“I believe that the knowledge of our market associated with the great expertise in contracts and negotiation has been important in helping us to conduct our business”
Coimbra & Chaves Advogados
Coimbra & Chaves Sociedade de Advogados was established in 2011. The firm focuses on corporate clients. The firm has three offices in Brazil located in Belo Horizonte, Sao Paulo and Brasilia. The firm is a founding member of the ALAE alliance of law firms.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A team at the firm advises on a wide variety of matters and services including acquisitions, sales, joint-ventures, strategic partnerships and debt equity transactions.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Zelo Group, Super Nosso Group, and Engeform Engenharia.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Project Development: Mining
"They understand TAKRAF's legal practices and perform comments and recommendations to discuss with customers before signing any contract. My understanding is that they do well in the T&C verifications.”
M&A
“CCBA assisted the M&A process diligently and with high quality.”
Davis Polk & Wardwell
Established in the 1960s, Davis Polk & Wardwell
is a world class firm with a global network. In Brazil, the firm has one office in
São Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a strong M&A team that advises clients domestically and internationally.
Key Clients
The firm has many key clients such as Banco Santander Brasil, Bavaria, Companhia Siderurgica Nacional, Cosan, Fibria Celulose, Gafisa, Odebrecht, Petrobras, Via Varejo and Vivo Participacões.
De Luca Derenusson Schuttoff Advogados
Founded in 2011, De Luca, Derenusson, Schuttoff e Azevedo Advogado is a firm providing a wide variety of services, based in Sao Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A group at the firm is experienced in both buyer side and seller side transactions. It assists both foreign and local clients. Areas of work include joint ventures, private equity and share acquisitions.
Donelli Abreu Sodra e Martins
Founded in 2018 in São Paulo,
Donelli e Abreu Sodré Advogados is a relatively new Brazilian boutique.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is active in M&A transactions on both the buyer and the seller side. Their industry experience is diverse but is especially notable in the real estate and power industries.
Research period review: 31st edition (2020/2021)
The M&A team at the firm advised on sell side transactions over the research period. Health care stood out as an active sector.
During the research period the firm welcomed partner Suzana Camarão Cencin Castelnau from Machado Associados in November 2020.
Partner Vitor Martins left the firm in April 2020.
Client feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
Asset finance
"Even if they were not specialised in investments funds and other related areas, they had a good network of people with an immense sense of organisation and knowledge that fostered the comprehension and resolution of complex points. Additionally, the accuracy of information provided has contributed to our decision-making process in the way all guidelines have been outlined in a clear and outstanding manner."
M&A
"Impartiality. Clarity. Quickness in the process."
Project development
"Very responsive and detailed-oriented."
Restructuring
"Creative solutions for unique situations and challenges. Out of the box approach while maintaining highest level of professionalism and integrity. Prompt and diligent."
"Knowledge, professionalism, teamwork."
Restructuring : Corporate
"The personalised service of the team was essential. The partners really get involved in the day-by-day work, bringing a lot of security to the client."
"Very responsive, accurate legal information, flexible on fees, negotiation."
Restructuring and insolvency
"Pragmatic/commercial approach - clear explanations to clients of a complicated area of law. Efficient and timely."
Donelli e Abreu Sodré Advogados
Founded in 2018 in São Paulo,
Donelli e Abreu Sodré
Advogados is a relatively new Brazilian boutique.
The firm is
most active in the
M&A practice, working with
both the buyer and sellers. Their industry experience is diverse but is especially notable in the real estate and power industries. The firm is also active in project development and restructuring and insolvency.
Key clients of the firm include
Minercacão,NFP Automotive, Renal Vida Group, Texuna Technologies and World Metals & Alloys.
Research period review: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
The firm was active in corporate and M&A, project development and restructuring and insolvency during the research period.
The M&A team and the restructuring and insolvency team worked on transactions in the entertainment, mining and manufacturing sectors.
The project development team advised transactions exclusively in the construction and materials industry. The firm advised concessionaires and developers in domestic projects.
Deal highlights: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Dev
Minercacão $135 million financial restructuring
Maze Group R$20 million restructuring
Micromar Indústria e Comércio R$20 million restructuring
Duarte Garcia Serra Netto & Terra Advogados
Formed in 2017, Duarte Garcia, Serra Neto e Terra Advogados
is a relatively new firm, but has worked on an impressive number of deals. The firm has two locations, with offices in Sao Paulo and Brasilia.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A group at the firm provides full M&A service, with expertise in corporate tax, assistance with foreign investments and crossborder deals. Most of their deals are focused on the real estate and pharmaceutical industries. The team also works with venture capital clients and fintech.
The project development team at the firm specializes in public law, providing consultancy and litigation for clients participating in public bids, negotiations for public contracts, PPPs and more. Much of the work is centered on highways, subways, sanitation, energy and more.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Odebrecht, Camargo Correa, Tecnisa, Prologis and CSHG Renda Urbana.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Project Development: Transport
“Duarte Garcia is very knowledgeable on the issues we deal with them, bringing sound advice and hard work, all of that topped with an easy approach.”
M&A
“The partners at Duarte Garcia Advogados that I work with have a deep knowledge of the legal mechanisms and specificities related to the Brazilian real estate and capital markets.”
Felsberg Advogados
Felsberg Advogados was founded in 1970. It is a full-service firm and has three locations, in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia. The firm is a member of the independent law firm networks Meritas and Legalink.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A group at the firm focuses on a range of services including corporate reorganization, conversion of debt into equity, M&A transactions and joint ventures.
The project development team has worked on many innovative projects, including a bi-national power plant, planning for infrastructure projects and bids for PPPs.
The banking and finance team at the firm advises clients on the creation of facilities, revolving loans, financial restructuring and more.
The firm is well known in the market for its restructuring practice, where it advises sector leading clients in restructuring and insolvency matters.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include BNP Paribas, Grupo Moreno, Rappi, Hubster, WiBOO, Acciona Infraestrutura, BNDES, CCCC, World Bank, Renova Energia and ASAP Telecom.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Insolvency
“They have great expertise in every law area. They work in great synergy with the company. Understand the company business and are always ready to act.”
M&A
“The Felsberg team is very attentive and available to help the client during the work. In addition, they are experienced and fully qualified professionals.”
Fraga Bekierman & Cristiano Advogados
Fraga, Bekierman & Cristiano Advogados was established in 1993. The firm works with local and international clients. It has two offices, with locations in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A group has advised clients in a variety of industry, including energy, mining construction, shipping and tech. The team advises on private equity investments corporate reorganizations, due diligence and more.
Key clients
Clients for the firm include, Technogym, Beldi Group, IHI do Brasil Representações, Swire Oilfield Services and TomTom Brasil.
Franco Leutewiler Henriques Advogados
Established in 2021, Franco Leutewiler Henriques Advogados
is a fresh face in the crowd of Brazilian legal firms. Its main office is in São Paulo. The firm has additional offices in Campo Grande, Recife and New York City.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has noteworthy banking, debt capital markets and M&A practices.
The banking and debt capital markets teams participate in project financing on the among other kinds, typically advising banks on the lender side.
The M&A team is strong in health, agribusiness, real estate and financial services, working especially well with investors in those industries.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include VIVEO, Louis Dreyfus Commodities, ING Bank, Amaggi Group Amerra Captial Management, Sumitomo Corporation, Nutrien, Lennox International, BRF, Clave Capital, Synergy Flavors, Diban, TERRA Group, Banco Santander, Haitong Banco De Investimentos Do Brasil, Natixis, Lifetime Investimentos and Banco Azteca.
Gaia Silva Gaede
Founded in 1990, Gaia Silva Gaede Advogados is a firm that stands out for its business law work. It has five locations, with offices in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasilia, Curitiba and Belo Horizonte.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A group works on a wide array of aspects of corporate restructuring, and has a focus on corporate governance, M&A and planning and implementation of corporate structure.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Odebrecht, Camargo Correa, Tecnisa, Prologis, CSHG Renda Urbana and Unimed-Rio Cooperativa de Trabalho Médico do Rio de Janeiro.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
“Experienced and available team; valuable insights when negotiating critical SPA clauses.”
Banking and finance
"The Gaia team gave us fast and applicable answers. They work with an easy way of communication that makes their answers understandable to the public."
Gentil Monteiro Vicentini Beringhs e Gil
Founded in 2018, Gentil Monteiro Vincentini Beringhs e Gil
is an innovative Brazilian firm based in São Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
While the firm specializes in M&A transactions, it has a presence in a wide range of sectors including insurance, agribusiness, construction and engineering, real estate, technology, telecommunications and sports and entertainment. The firm is experienced in working with investors, joint venture partners and strategic acquirers among other types of clients.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include Amazon, BRZ Investimentos, MDS Group, Banco BTG Pactual, Betsson Brasil, Cordier Investimentos, Green Super Food, Kikkoman, Mubadala Group, Parceiro Ventures and Virgo Securitizadora.
Guimarães & Vieira de Mello Advogados
Guimarães & Vieira de Mello Advogados, GVM, was founded in 2004. It has three offices in Brazil, located in Sao Paulo and Belo Horizonte and Uberlândia. It is a member of the DRT international law firm alliance.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A team advises international and Brazilian clients on transactions. It advises both buyers and sellers in cross-border transactions.
The investment fund practice is active in the structuring, sale and acquisition of investment funds.
Key clients
Key clients include ASM Participações Societárias, Brinks, Codemge and Holt Accelerator Brazil Intralot Group.
Huck Otranto Camargo Advogados
Huck Otranto Camargo was established in 1993. The firm has two offices, with a main office in Sao Paulo and an office in Brasilia.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A group has experience in joint ventures, governance structure, private equity and more. The group is active in a broad array of sectors, including pharmaceutical, insurance, real estate and food and beverage.
Key clients
Key clients include Assupero (Grupo UNIP), Grupo Porto Seguro, Blau Farmacêutica and Brasil Norte Bebidas.
i2a Advogados
Located in São Paulo, i2a Advogados
is a new firm in the Brazilian market.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is strong in debt capital markets, investment funds and M&A practices. Acquisition financing is a specialty of the firm, especially in the real estate sector.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include Kinea Investimentos, Vinci Partners, Barzel Properties, Copa Investimentos, Brookfield Property Group, Alianza Gestora De Recursos, Banco Genial, Tellus Gestora, Panorama Investimentos and Tishman Speyer Gestora de Recursos.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Investment funds: Real estate funds
“i2a always looks for solutions to implement deals, overcoming difficulty. they are resilient and creative and, they have a great knowledge that gives comfort and security for taking decisions during operations”
Capital markets: Structured finance and securitization
“They have a huge knowledge about securitization transactions. They provide us very good documents and respect the timeline.”
IBS Advogados
Founded in 2017, IBS Advogados
is an up-and-coming firm located in São Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
IBS Advogados has a bright debt capital markets practice that focuses on real estate receivable certificates. The firm also participates in real estate investment fund transactions.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include Hectare Capital Gestora de Recursos, Devant Asset Investimentos, R Capital Asset Management Investimentos, Forte Securitizadora, OPEA Securitizadora, RB Capital,
Pátria Cia Securitizadora de Créditos Imobiliários and Saga Capital.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Capital markets: Debt
“IBS service us with spot on legal advice to address and mitigate any risks regarding the issuance of debts, performing with agility and precision. Lea Yassuda is a great asset for the firm.”
Capital markets: Structured finance and securitization
“- High flexibility and pro-business approach
- Highly qualified team in legal matters
- Close contact with senior leadership / partners of the firm”
Kestener & Vieira Advogados
The joining of partners Beatriz Kestener and Fabio Alonso Vieira is how
Kestener & Vieira Advogados was founded. It is based in São Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm sports a renowned Corporate and M&A team. Its team is specialized in the healthcare, automotive, technology and engineering industries. It works with many large companies domestically.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include Glenmark Group, Continental Group, Automotivos, Boehringer Ingelheim Group, Kellogg Brasil, Baxter Hospitalar,
Hefesto Desenvolvimento e Criação de Tecnologia Médica and Dunnhumby Brasil Consultoria.
KLA Advogados
KLA Advogados was founded in 2002 and is a full-service law firm. It has two offices in Brazil, one in Sao Paulo and the other in Brasilia.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A team is experienced in assisting the incorporation of companies, negotiating and structuring joint ventures and acquisitions, as well as full due diligence for clients before their acquisition or sale.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include, General Mills, Mars, Dentsu Aegis Network, Banco Brasil Plural, Royal Bank of Canada, QMC Telecom and Habitaec Securitizadora.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
"Unmatched responsiveness and market insight."
"Very competent, professional and precise"
Lacaz Martins Pereira Neto Gurevich & Schoueri
Lacaz Martins, Pereira Neto, Gurevich e Schoueri Advogados was founded in 1992. It has three locations in Brazil, with offices in Sao Paulo, Ro de Janeiro and Brasilia.
Focuses / specialisms
The firm has a special focus in structured transactions in real estate. Its real estate investment fund work sees the firm performing at a high level.
Key clients
Some clients include Credit Suisse, VBI Real Estate, Rio Bravo, BRL Trust and VBI Real Estate.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Private equity
“Very dedicated, attentive and loyal to all matters.”
Investment funds: Real estate funds
“Lacaz has notorious expertise in real estate market, development, among other subjects. Also, they added good value in their advice when the deal faced tax matters that had impact on the transaction.”
Leite Tosto & Barros
Founded in 1991, Leite Tosto & Barros
is a Brazilian firm with offices in São Paulo and Brasilia.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has expertise in M&A transactions, specializing in energy and infrastructure. The firm also has a noteworthy restructuring and insolvency practice. It advised debtors and creditors domestically and abroad.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include Alupar Investimentos, Arena, Brasil Ventos Energia, Huntington Centro de Medicina Reproductiva, CSRA Consular Services, Simon Hegele Healthcare, Wow Nutrition, Banco Fibra and Banco Rabobank.
Lobo de Rizzo Advogados
Lobo De Rizzo is a full-service law firm that was founded in 2007. The firm has two offices in Brazil, with locations in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The banking team works with local and foreign companies, financial institutions, investment funds and development agencies. The group works on structures transactions, international securities and helps clients guarantee instruments and prepare agreements.
The debt capital markets work for the firm is very active in the infrastructure sector. It assists clients in a variety of industries on the issuance of debentures.
The equity capital markets work from the team has experience assisting IPOs and follow-ons.
The M&A team at the firm assists local and international clients on sale side and buy side transactions. The group is experienced assisting companies engaged in high-profile, industry leading deals.
The projects team advises on a wide variety of sectors including infrastructure, energy and oil and gas. The firm has a public law practice that has worked on modelling of infrastructure projects and looking at regulatory issues in regulated sectors.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Odebracht, BNDES, Banco do Brasil, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Itaú BBA, Afya and BK Brasil Operação e Assessoria a Restaurantes and XP Investimentos.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Capital markets: Debt
" Lobo de Rizzo has a wonderful team. All members are very prepared and available to discuss and solve high complexity issues."
M&A
“LdR's teams involved in our transactions have the appropriate seniority level, gives prompt feedback whenever necessary, is always up-to-date as regards the deals' key issues, is very precise in its drafting.”
Lollato Lopes Rangel Ribeiro Advogados
Lollato Lopes Rangel Ribeiro Advogados
has offices located in São Paulo, Santa Catarina and Paraná. It is a versatile boutique firm with a dynamic list of clients.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm specializes in Restructuring and Insolvency matters in the transportation, banking, real estate, construction and mining industries. The firm is also experienced in advising investment funds.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include Bank of America Merill Lynch, XP Asset, Canvas Capital, BTG Pactual Investment Bank, ARC Investment Fund, Transpmodel, Blackpartners Investment Fund and Brasil Plural Investment Bank and Asset Management.
Loria e Kalansky
Loria e Kalansky is a Brazilian boutique firm that was founded in 2017 and is in
São Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm does exceptionally well in equity capital markets due to one of its founding partners being a former commissioner of the Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission. This largely distinguishes them from other Brazilian firms.
Key Clients
A few of the firm’s key clients include Arien Invest Gestora de Recursos, Banco Santander, BRL Trust Investimentos, Credit Suisse Consultoria de Investimentos, Cyrela Brasil Realty,
Casa dos Ventos Energias Renováveis, Asset Gestão de Recursos and Zagros Capital Gestão de Recursos.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial services regulatory
“Deep technical knowledge, great insights of how the enforcement process works from the perspective of the supervisor and proximity to clients.”
Machado Associados
Machado Associados was established in 1990 and specializes in corporate law services for local and international clients. In 2019, the firm merged with CHBS – Cipullo, Harada, Bezerra e Santos. The firm is also part of two international networks, LATAXNET and WTS Global. The firm has three locations in Brazil, with offices in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A group is segmented into four unique teams: a corporate structuring and restructuring team, non-transactional corporate advice, M&A and contracts. The group can structure entire transactions.
The projects group acts as a strategic consultant for clients, implementing and managing projects, operations and enterprises. The team advises local and international companies, where they assist in public bidding, public private partnerships, authorizations and more. The firm is strong in infrastructure and energy sectors, as well as oil and gas, logistics and technology.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include CCR Group, Capital Realty, Superior Energy Services, OLX, Directweb and Exceda.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Asset finance
“I think they are very competent, and realiable.”
Financial services regulatory
"Te staff is outstanding. High level in legal knowledge, people highly motivate."
Madrona Fialho Advogados
Madrona Advogados was founded in 2015, it assists national and foreign clients in a variety of sectors. The firm is made up of over 110 experienced professionals. The firm has two locations, with offices in Sao Paulo and Brasilia. The firm does not have international locations but is a member of the legal network Interact law.
Focusses / specialisms
The banking and finance team advises on credit facilities, refinancing and other financing transactions.
The capital markets work at the firm assists issuers, underwriters and investors on capital markets transactions at all levels of asset capital structures. The team assists on the issuance of debentures, bonds, promissory notes, commercial papers and incorporations.
The M&A team offers assistance on general corporate and mergers and acquisitions on local and cross border deals. The group also advises on joint ventures, leveraged buyouts and both buyers and sellers in transactions.
The projects team at the firm has a depth of experience in advising government in modelling PPPs. the team also assists clients in bidding process for project development. The team works with clients in a variety sectors including energy, infrastructure and construction.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include, Merck, Vale, Inter-American Development Bank, Cyrela Brazil Realty and Credit Suisse Hedging.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Capital markets
"highly qualified team
Active participation of partner Leonardo Di Cola
Experience in securitization operations"
M&A
"Partners are hands-on; high expertise of the power sector; ability to provide integrated solutions."
Mallard Medeiros
Mallard Medeiros is a contemporary full-service Brazilian law firm.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm specializes in advising on corporate structuring, M&A and projects in the real estate sector.
Key Clients
A few notable clients include Secol Construtora, Explora Ventures, Thoor Mining, Zeoos Mining and Querenca Empresa Rural.
Mange Advogados
Based in São Paulo,
Mange Advogados is an experienced firm with a team that has been working together since 1995.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm focuses on restructuring and insolvency, advising distressed insolvency parties.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients are Gradiente, Grupo Estrela Azul and LBR Group.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Insolvency
"They work accordingly in all conduction and legal structuring within the process. They present constant legal and viable alternatives so that the company's management can evaluate and make the best decision within our possibilities."
Martinelli Advogados
Founded in 1997, Martinelli Advogados
is an experienced firm that has offices scattered throughout Brazil to improve accessibility with clients.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm specializes in banking as well as M&A work. The banking team is distinctly familiar with the Brazilian Securities Commission and the M&A team focuses its work in industries such as metallurgy, food and beverage, agribusiness, retail and consumption, real estate and timber, textile, transport and energy among others.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Banking and finance
"They are very fast, reliable and experts in international business and negotiation "
M&A
“The positive attributes as: Proximity of partner; constant feedback; and Meeting deadlines. They have a great structure and schedule definition, as well as a work methodology.”
Mattos Engelberg Advogados
Mattos Engelberg Echenique Advogados is a multidisciplinary law firm that works with a wide variety of clients. The firm has three offices in Brazil, with offices in Sao Paulo, Ribeirão Preto and Rio Brilhante. The firm also has an international presence with a strategic partnership with Penningtons Manches Cooper.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A group at the firm is most active in mid-market transactions, corporate reorganizations and structuring joint ventures. The firm advises local and international clients in a variety of sectors, including agriculture, technology, life sciences, telecommunications and energy.
Key clients
Key clients include, Bunge Alimentos, BIT4B, On Time Express Logística e Transportes, State Grid Brazil Power Participações and UP Groupe.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial restructuring
"They are very responsive on both transactions and deliver its work before the deadline having applying all the relevant market precedent on the negotiations of the transactions."
M&A
"Mattos Filho is very responsive, robust in terms of advice and manpower and very creative. Our attempted business combination involved a number of novel structures and they were key in finding solutions in every step of the way."
Mazzucco & Mello Advogados
Founded in 2004, Mazzucco & Mello Advogados
is a firm made up of a group of tenured and inventive lawyers.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is skilled in advising domestic and foreign clients on the buyer and seller side in M&A transactions. Many of the firm’s clients are private equity firms. The firm also has a noteworthy restructuring and insolvency team that focuses on work in the plastic and agriculture sectors.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include Wilbert Sanches, Marlon Oliveira, Ebury, Vet Quality, Center Norte, Electro Plastic and Legacy Hill Resources.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
"Extremely responsive. Commercial and pragmatic. Competitive pricing."
“Deep knowledge of the M&A practice, problem solver, interpersonal ability.”
Melcheds Advogados
Melcheds Advogados – Mello e Rached Advogados was founded in 2008. The firm has one office in Sao Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A team at the firm in known for their work in the healthcare sector as well as renewable energy and oil and gas. The team advises buyers and sellers in transactions, assisting on foreign transactions, majority stakes and incorporation of joint ventures.
The project development group is strongest in the energy sector, working on several notable renewable energy deals.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include New Energies Investimentos e Participações, Sungrow Projetos, Steelcons Empreiteira Construção Civil and UBS Bank.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial restructuring
"We have a close contact with the Partners. Every time we need them they always are available."
Mello Torres
Souza Mello e Torres was founded in 2018. The firm is well known for its transactional work. The firm has two offices, with locations in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. It is a member of a world-wide alliance with Allen & Overy and HSF.
Focusses / specialisms
The capital markets team assists clients in private placements, tender offers, and securitization transactions. In addition, it assists clients in debt and equity instruments,advising on financing of local and international markets.
The firm handles investment fund work as well, assisting clients in the structuring and offering of securities. It is most active in real estate receivables.
M&A advice from the firm includes the structuring and negotiation of mergers, acquisitions and joint ventures. The firm is active within private equity and advised both buyers and sellers.
The project development department advises infrastructure projects at all stages, including the drafting of contracts for regulatory requirements and construction and maintenance. The team assists in PPPs and concession bidding.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include, BNP Paribas, GDM Genética do Brasil, Casino Group, Cury Construtora e Incorporadora, Konecta Group, Finnvera and BBM LOGÍSTICA.
Client feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
Capital markets
"The major theme in Souza Mello e Torres is the presence of one of its main partners, Vitor Arantes, in every capital market transaction. Despite being a young partner, Vitor is an extremely dedicated and detailed lawyer, more than able to give the comfort needed in a transaction. Vitor is skilful in various segments of law, which facilitates and helps in a complex deal in the capital market."
"Vitor Arantes and his team, especially Marcela Rivellino Lourenzo, are hands-on, committed and up-to-date professionals. They are very active in our sector and know the best choices to conduct capital markets deals in investment fund. For sure, they are my first choice to support our growth during the coming years."
M&A
"Partners are pragmatic and responsive. They have a lot of experience and are not shy to anticipate and focus on the real issues - and push for a speedy and successful signing and closing."
"SMT team is able to act with great agility and precision. Besides, the M&A team has deep market insight regarding venture capital deals. "
"The firm's partner and senior associates are proactive and available. The firm is flexible with regards to extensions in initial workloads and is client-friendly in this sense."
Project development
"Partners are pragmatic and responsive. They have a lot of experience and are not shy to anticipate and focus on the real issues - and push for a speedy and successful signing and closing."
"Practical and agile."
Monteiro Rusu Cameirão e Bercht Advogados
Headquartered in Sao Paulo, Monteiro Rusu Cameirão Bercht Advogados
was founded in 2016. It has a focus on financial transactional and commercial law.
Focusses / specialisms
The banking practice assists banks, financial institutions and other entities in borrowing and lending transactions, as well as regulatory issues.
The capital markets department structures complex transactions, assisting clients in public issuances of debt, agribusiness and real estate receivables. It advises issuers and underwriters in a wide range of transactions.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Banco Itaú BBA, Banco Santander Brasil, BB Banco de Investimento, Cerradinho Açúcar Etanol e Energia and Bradesco BBI.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Banking and finance
" The teams is very diligent, and Roberto Rusu and Marina Frenereich are both references in knowledge when you think about debt capital markets."
Capital markets: Debt
“Law firm with highly trained professionals, available partners and great knowledge of the company's market.”
Moreira Menezes Martins
Founded in 2014, Moreira Menezes Martins
is a boutique firm based in Rio de Janeiro with a brand-new second office in
São Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm focuses on corporate law and capital markets, but also is highly skilled in M&A work as well as restructuring and insolvency. The firm does its best work with clients such as financial institutions, private companies and shareholders and security brokers. The sectors it is most experienced in are energy, education and finance.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s many key clients include Bluefit Academias de Ginástica e Participações, Arconvert-Ritrama do Brasil, Enccamp Residencial, Gafisa, Ritrama Autoadesivos Comércio,
Planner Trustee DTVM, PetroRio, Grupo Leste Investimentos, Mongeral Aegon Seguros e Previdência and Bain Capital Private Equity Europe.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
“Organized and technically impeccable.”
Banking and finance
“The most recent work Moreira Menezes, Martins Advogados provided for me was legal advisory on regulatory and corporate issues regarding investment funds in Brazil, specially matters concerning the regulation issued by the Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM) and by the Brazilian Financial and Capital Markets Association (ANBIMA).”
Moura Tavares Figueiredo Moreira & Campos Advogados
Moura Tavares, Figueiredo, Moreira e Campos Advogados was founded in 1986. The firm has four locations, with offices in Belo Horizonte, Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia. The firm advises clients in sectors like automotive, construction, healthcare, insurance, and pharmaceuticals.
Focusses / specialisms
The banking and finance practice has a strong borrower client base, but also works with lenders. The team advises on consultation, managing liabilities and planning.
The dedicated corporate and M&A practice for the firm is in Sao Paulo. The team advises on transactions and provides advice on a wide range of matters.
Key clients
Clients for the firm include, Paranasa Engenharia e Comercio, Grupo Brasa and Novus Engenharia.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial services regulatory
"The law firm Moura Tavares, Figueiredo, Moreira e Campos Advogados stands out for the personalized service of its clients, which is why REFRAMAX ENGENHARIA LTDA. has been a customer for so many years (09 years)
Thus, the law firm is able to see and understand the company as a whole and present the most appropriate solutions.
The company is served both by the partners of the areas and by the team of lawyers, which shows attention and care to the problems presented, bringing comfort and security to the company.
These qualities distinguish society from others in the legal market."
Novotny Advogados
Novotny Advogados was founded in 2018. The firm has two locations, with offices in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. The corporate and M&A team is led by Partners Paulo Penna and Gabriel Rios Corrêa.
Focusses / specialisms
The corporate and M&A team assists local and international companies on sale-side and buy-side M&A, private equity transactions in a broad range of sectors. The team works best on complex mid-market deals where it provides comprehensive support.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Brookfield Properties, Zee Dog and Linka Invest.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
"Deep knowlwdge of local legislation"
"Alto nível de conhecimento, sempre sendo pro ativos sobre indicações das melhores práticas para nosso negócio. Rápido entendimento sobre nosso modelo de negócio e disponibilidade durante o processo. "
Padis Mattar Advogados
Padis Mattar Advogados,
formerly Padis Advogados until the addition of partner Eduardo Mattar in 2020, was founded in 2018. It is a boutique law firm located in Sao Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
M&A is the primary focus of the firm, where it advises on complex mergers and crossborder acquisitions. It is particularly active in private equity, structured finance and financial services transactions.
Key clients
Notable clients for the firm include Oaktree Capital, Latache Capital, Blackrock and Lone Star Funds.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial restructuring
"Incredibly strong communication skills with clients; commercial strategy skills; negotiation skills"
Peixoto & Cury Advogados
Founded in 1948, Peixoto & Cury Advogados
is distinguished in its maturity and experience. The firm has offices in
São Paulo, Campinas and New York.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A team is the crown of the firm. It is very capable of advising international clients due to its two-decade old office in New York, and it focuses most of its work on the technology, chemicals, healthcare and consumer goods sectors.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include
Owens-Illinois do Brasil Indústria e Comércio, Thyssenkrupp Metalúrgica Campo Limpo,
Saint Gobain, Mccann-Erickson Publicidade, Lojas Americanas, Avon Cosméticos and the Brazilian Association of Advertising Companies
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
"They are highly qualified in negotiation and formation of corporate structure, preparation of documentation and more elaborate social contracts. Tax planning is also an aggregating factor in the provision of services they serve."
"They know very well our market and our business, so that they can provide better services, accordingly"
PGLaw
PGLaw was founded in 2014 and since then has become a multidisciplinary law firm specializing in corporate governance. It has a Brazilian office in São Paulo and an international office in Palo Alto. The corporate M&A practice area is led by Carlos Portugal
Gouvêa.
M&A matters are a focus for the firm, who represent strategic acquirers, sellers and private equity firms. Partners work across a wide variety of industries, including technology, engineering, consumer goods, chemicals and education. The firm also has a dedicated restructuring and insolvency team that
works with clients in a myriad of industries.
Key clients include Suzano Papel e Celulose, Quest Software,
Cardpay Holdings, Orion Engineered Carbons and
Ormuco.
Research period review: 32nd edition (2021/2022)
Over the research period,
PGLaw was active in M&A and restructuring and insolvency.
The M&A team
advised companies on
mergers, private equity and asset acquisitions in
technology sectors.
The firm represented more acquirers than sellers.
The restructuring and insolvency team
mainly advised debtors in restructurings, maintaining a presence across multiple sectors.
Deal highlights: 32nd edition (2021/2022)
ALE
Brasil/Mammoet
BrasilGuindastes merger
Renuka do
Brasil R$3.3 billion restructuring
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2021/2022)
"The firm is informative and accommodative."
"They are very up to date on insolvency matters"
"Excellent work with proposals for restructuring our company leadership and governance. They have the expertise and experience with non-profit organization constitution and regulations according to Brazilian law."
Restructuring: Restructuring and insolvency
"Unlike most law firms in Brazil, it has a structured and truly specialized insolvency area. The firm's insolvency team is very attentive and always available to clear up our doubts and explain every detail of the case they are
working on for us, especially the implications and liabilities involved."
"Expertise and experience in the field."
"She has an interest channel on Instagram."
"As one of the partners leading the firm's specialized insolvency area, she is keen to get personally involved in the daily work of the team. She is highly regarded by the insolvency law market and peers, having been invited as speaker to several lectures, conferences, webinars and other events."
"As one of the partners leading the firm's specialized insolvency area, he is keen to get personally involved in the daily work of the team. He is highly regarded by the insolvency law market and peers, having been invited as speaker to several lectures, conferences, webinars and other events."
"He is an expert in the restructuring and insolvency area, particularly focused on conflict resolution, debt restructuring, negotiation and recovery of assets. He has actively participated in some of the most important insolvency cases in Brazil before joining the firm and as he is the coordinator of the Bankruptcy Law Commissions of the Brazilian Institute of Business Law and of the Lawyers Institute of São Paulo, and has been previously nominated by the Brazilian government to join a commission of jurists responsible for the elaboration of a new insolvency procedures law to micro and small companies, we take his legal opinions very seriously. "
Rayes & Fagundes Advogados
Founded in 1998, Rayes & Fagundes Advogados Associados
advises on a wide range of corporate services. It is based in Sao Paulo, and has offices in Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte, Campinas and Sao Bernardo do Campo.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A team advises on complex cross-border transactions. It advises both buyers and sellers, often assisting foreign investors seeking to invest in Brazil. Sectors the firm is active in include IT, energy, manufacturing and healthcare.
Key clients
Notable clients include IBM Brasil, Nokia, Coca-Cola, DSS, Banco Indusval & Partners, Thomson Reutersand Pacific Hydro.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Asset finance
"Excellence in all areas."
M&A
"The M&A practice area has a team with a lot of experience in cross-border deals, working with multinational companies and local ones that want to go abroad. Their timing is excellent as well quality of work."
RGSH Advogados
Ramos &
Zuanon Advogados, or RZ Advogados, is Brazilian firm located in São Paulo.
The firm is best known for its work in the agribusiness industry.
In practice areas the firm is focused on corporate M&A transactions working in deals in the agribusiness, port, retail, auto and education industries. It has experience representing strategic acquirers, company shareholders and sellers.
Key clients for the firm include Santander, HSBC, Deutsche bank,
Novaprint and Credit
Suisse.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Over the research period,
the firm was active in banking and finance and M&A.
The banking team was engaged in
various types of cross-border
financing transactions including project finance, trade finance and acquisition finance.
In M&A, the firm advised on private acquisitions and financial investments in the agriculture,
technology and consumer goods sectors. It advised
acquirers and target companies.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2022/2023)
Aracaju Waterway Terminal project
Humberg
Agribrasil Comércio e
Exportação de
Grãos R$124 million acquisition of
Nityam Empreendimentos e
Participações
Rolim Goulart Cardoso
Founded in 1993, Rolim Viotti Goulart Cardoso Advogados
is a well-established firm based in São Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has an impressive catalogue of clients across multiple industries such as energy, mining, automotive, metal and steel, telecommunications, banking, insurance, healthcare, construction, education, agribusiness and transportation. The firm’s M&A practice is its crown and glory, advising foreign and domestic clients on complex transactions.
Key Clients
A few of the firm’s notable clients include Airbus, Gerdau, Mosaic Fertilizantes, BMG Group, Coca-Cola FEMSA, Kinross, EDP Energia, Lunding Mining, Brazilian Nickel, ArcelorMittal, Sumitomo, Zurich Seguros, Gerdau and Alianca Energia.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
"Celerity, availability, technical capacity"
"Legal, corporate structure, tax planning"
SABZ Advogados
Established in 2006, SABZ Advogados is a business focused law firm. It is located in Sao Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A team at the firm has expert skills at assisting on distressed deals for companies under judicial recovery process and financial stress. Services the team provides include M&A, corporate due diligence, incorporation and advisory for private and publicly held companies.
The project development team is experienced in deals involving the public and private sectors. The team drafts contracts for infrastructure projects that are complex.
Key clients
Clients for the firm include Construtora Itajaíc, Hemisfério Sul Investimentos, Novo Entreposto São Paulo and Nelson Nogueira Pinheiro.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
PPP/PFI
“SABZ know-how supported us in fit our enterprise offers for government during Notice and bid product.”
Scalzilli Althaus Chimelo Spohr Advogados
Scalzilli Althaus Chimelo Spohr Advogados
is a distinctly specialized Brazilian firm that uniquely incorporates technology in its methods of servicing its clients.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm’s restructuring and insolvency practice is noteworthy due to its experience in representing various creditors in complex proceedings. The firm is also adept in advising debtors.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include Rede Metodista de Ensino, Cargill Agricola, Grupo Phronesis, Top Safe Servicos de Seguranca, Aurora Alimentos, Mosaic Fertilizantes, Sutepa, Sanem Engenharia and Minuano.
Silveiro Advogados
Silveiro Advogados was founded in 1956. The firm has two locations, with offices in Porto Alegre and Sao Paulo. The firm is well recognized for its history in Rio Grande do Sul.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A group at the firm is well known for its work on cross-border M&A and private equity transactions. The department consists of a strong group of partners, with broad experience in commercial, corporate and financial law.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Zion Capital, KWITKO, Recrusul and IESDE Brasil.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
"Excellent tax, real estate and company law teams."
"responsive, professional, loyal"
Sion Advogados
Sion Advogados is an innovative and versatile firm with offices in
São Paulo, Belo Horizonte and Rio de Janeiro.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has accomplished project development and M&A practices, leveraging that collaborative efforts of those departments to provide exceptional service on land acquisitions specifically. The firm also specializes in concession agreements, exploration contracts and project negotiations. Energy, oil and gas, mining, transportation, construction and steel are some of the industries the firm has a well-built presence in.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
“Technically qualified team, service and deliveries above average.”
Project development: Mining
“Partner Bernardo Pessoa is always available and has strong and solid experience on mining transaction, which contributes to unlock complex cases.”
SiqueiraCastro
SiqueiraCastro was established in 1948 as a business law firm. The firm now has over 80 partners in 18 offices spread over Brazil, with offices in Sao Paolo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasilia and more. The firm is a member of ADVOC, a global network of independent law firms.
Focusses / specialisms
The banking and finance group is recognized in the market for its work on complex projects that they solve with innovative solutions. The team has expertise in assisting on drafting loan agreements, analyzing securitization processes, drafting financial agreements and more.
The M&A team at the firm is known for supporting clients in buy side and sale side transactions. The group also assists clients on corporate restructurings. The team has experience developing special purpose vehicles and spin offs and handling complex transactions.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Banco Banif Portugal, Samsung, Esmaltec, Duratex, HSBC and Avianca Brasil.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial services regulatory
"Commitment
Technical Capacity "
Souto Correa Cesa Lummertz & Amaral
Souto Correa Cesa Lummertz & Amaral
is a relatively large Brazilian firm with a well-diversified set of practices.
Focusses / specialisms
This firm is qualified in capital markets, M&A, investment funds and restructuring and insolvency work.
The capital markets team advises investors in IPOs and debt securities.
The M&A team is specifically experienced in the renewable energy, agribusiness and automotive industries.
In restructuring and insolvency, the firm advises both debtors and creditors in debt restructuring negotiations and other complex proceedings.
Key Clients
Some of the firm’s key clients include Banco Votorantim, Banco BTG Pactual, International Finance Corporation, Sky Chefs, Telefonica Brasil, and Loft Brasil Tecnologia.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Insolvency
“The best attribute is the hard work and technical excellence.”
Financial restructuring
“Souto Correa led the group of creditors in a difficult and complex restructuring with more than USD 2 billion claims to be restructured, including large portion of labor, banking and tax liabilities. They were able to put different interests together and structure a restructuring plan with a recovery 3x higher than what was initially proposed.”
Stocche Forbes Padis Filizzola Clapis Passaro Meyer & Refinetti
Stocche Forbes is highly regarded across most practice areas but is perhaps best known for its work in project finance. It operates from four locations across Brazil: São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília and Belo Horizonte.
The banking and finance team has expertise in acquisition finance,
cross-border financing and credit facilities, representing mostly lenders.
The capital markets team works across debt and equity transactions, for both issuers and underwriters. The team works on debentures issuances, public offerings and bond offerings.
The M&A team advises investment funds, strategic buyers and sellers in funding, acquisitions and joint ventures. The team works across numerous industries, including energy, oil and gas, financial services and technology.
The project development team advises many developers and financial sponsors in the finance aspects of transactions. It is active in the oil and gas, energy and infrastructure industries.
The firm has a plethora of key clients in the banking and energy industries, including Banco
Santander, Teekay Offshore Partners, Engie
Brasil Energia, Syncreon Group,
Pátria Investimentos, FTV Capital, Banco BTG Pactual and Banco Itaú.
Research period review: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Over the research period the
firm was active in banking and finance, capital markets, M&A and project development.
The
banking team worked on numerous
cross-border financings, representing mostly
borrowers.
The team had a strong presence in the energy sector.
The capital markets team
worked in equity and debt,
advising issuers and underwriters on public offerings of shares and debentures in various industries.
In M&A and private equity, the firm worked on private acquisitions, mergers, and share buybacks in the
energy, mining, technology and telecommunications, healthcare, oil
and gas and consumer goods and services
industries. The firm advised acquirers, sellers, joint venture partners and merger parties.
The project development team saw many financings in the oil and gas, energy and infrastructure industries over the research cycle, where they represented many developers and lenders.
In August of 2021
Marco Saliba was recruited from Proton Energia to join the firm as a partner in the projects practice area. In March of 2021 partner
Rana Moraz departed from the firm to join PMK
Advogados.
Deal highlights: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Arezzo Group R$180 million acquisition of
GuaranáBrasilDifusão de Moda
Companhia Estadual de
Distribuicão de Energia
Eléctrica R$1.5 billion debenture issuance
QairBrasilParticipacõoes R$225 million debenture issuance
Rio do Peixe solar project EPC
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Knowledge, efficiency, agility, helpfulness."
"Legal knowledge, negotiation skills and partnership."
"Stocche provides very business-oriented advice and tailored to the specific needs of a foreign private equity fund operating in Brazil. "
"The firm provides the most sophisticated work across different areas."
"Deep technical expertise and unparalleled dedication to client."
"During the entire process, the firm was able to support the company with great zeal in relation to the minutes preparation, and much more. They were able to support the negotiation of complex clauses from an equity point of view and that generated great value to the transaction in this matter."
"Hard negotiation skills that
help to close the deal. Knowledge of international practices.
"
"The firm provides practical and commercially sound advice on matters of Brazilian corporate law. Their team is knowledgeable, experienced and proactive. They have an excellent capacity to focus on what really matters to foreign clients doing business in Brazil. "
"Client and business oriented. High quality from partners to associates. "
"The firm advised us on issues related to capital market (regulatory), M&A and tax, adding value by working with our legal and business teams to structure the deal from scratch. The partners are creative and business-oriented, and their advice was critical for the success of the transaction. As a private equity firm focused on special situations, we seek the best legal advice to map all possible risks, and they were excellent and delivered results above
expectations. "
Project development: Infrastructure
"They have demonstrated solid knowledge of EPC bidding and contract, adding value with their experience on both sides: owner and main contractor. Lawyers are bright to defend their advice, speaking clearly and avoiding unfamiliar terms for the non-lawyer
professional.
"Best firm in Brazil in explaining complex Brazilian legal differences to US and European clients."
"Boutique experience and quality, with big law flexibilities."
"First class and excellent communication skills, especially explaining Brazil complexities to foreign clients."
"They are knowledgeable, focused and client-oriented."
"Well-equipped, fast and problem-solving oriented."
"Solid technical expertise of all professionals, business-oriented, attention to detail and one of the only Brazilian firms that reach international levels of client service. "
"One of the best lawyers I have ever worked with. He is brilliant."
"He is a complete lawyer. Both in terms of depth of knowledge in the technical topics and in the capacity for dialogue to achieve the expected results."
"He is a very bright lawyer. He is aware of the issues faced by foreign clients doing business in Brazil and proposes creative and innovative solutions."
"One of the best lawyers I have worked with. Has a solid knowledge of international practices making a cross-border transaction as easy as possible. Drives clients' decisions based on risk assessment analysis. Has
hard negotiations skills. "
"Knowledgeable, fast, attentive."
"He works around the clock to make sure the client is fully and timely assisted, being very attentive to details."
"Fast responses and precision in meeting deadlines. Pays attention to details and is extremely hard working."
"Hands-on, knowledgeable and a clear communicator. Possibly the best project finance lawyer on Brazil law requirements."
"He is reliable, proactive and a conceptual thinker. He manages conflicts very well and has in-depth legal knowledge of our industry. He is assertive, which helps a lot."
"Always available, creative in finding alternative solutions, solid knowledge of the practice area (financing)."
"She has a solid knowledge of EPC bidding and modelling contracts, with a strong experience on both sides, owner and main contractor. She has clear communication and always keeps her attention
on others. "
"Creative thinking and dedication to client."
"Best client interaction of any partner that has ever provided services to us."
"Puts himself in the shoes of the client in order to provide fast, efficient and
business-oriented legal advice."
"Excellent professional. Very skilled and result oriented."
"Partner involved
in the deals and client solving."
Tauil & Chequer Advogados - Mayer Brown
Tauil & Chequer Advogados - Mayer Brown was founded in 1992. The firm entered into an association agreement with Mayer Brown in 2009. It is a full-service firm that offers advice to national and international clients. The firm operates out of four locations in Brazil, with offices in Brasilia, Rio De Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Vitoria. The firm’s association with Mayer Brown allows the firm to provide a global reach for its clients.
Focusses / specialisms
The capital markets and securitization practice at the firm has experience providing advice to a wide range of sectors, including infrastructure, energy, logistics, retail and food and finance. The firm is known for its capital markets and financial transaction work, including complex securities offerings, IPOs, CRIs, tender offers, follow-ons and debt issuances.
The M&A team at the firm assists local and international client by providing novel solutions and innovative strategies. The firm represents investment banks, private equity and financial institutions in a wide array of industries.
The project development group at the firm is best known for large-scale infrastructure projects including road, rails and ports, as well as power plants and renewable energy. The team is experienced in PPPs, public concessions and contract preparation.
The project finance team works with major financial institutions in the international and Brazilian markets. The team works with clients through the full cycle of major projects. The firm uses its capital markets and debt restructuring services for large infrastructure financing and cross-border financing.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include CCR, Ecorodovias, CPFL Energia, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Dow Chemical, General Electric, Vale, Brookfield and Santander.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
"The fast and effective communication with the staff, their knowledge about our needs and next steps are some of various attributes the firm has."
Capital markets: Equity
“They are very available and contribute with the deal's success. The partners are very competent and real assets in the conduction of any kind of deal. I am very pleased to have them on my side.”
Trench Rossi Watanabe
Trench Rossi Watanabe was established in 1959. The firm has offices in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasilia and Porto Alegre. The firm is also a strategic cooperative partner with Baker McKenzie, allowing it to have a global network.
Focusses / specialisms
Banking and finance work for the firm includes acting for both lenders and borrowers in banking regulatory work. The team works with local and international clients on banking transactions, derivatives work and credit facilities.
The debt capital markets team for the firm advises clients in setting up structured investment funds, as well as real estate funds and private equity funds. The team also supports clients in structuring and implementing securities issuances.
The equity capital markets team supports on IPOs for Brazilian companies, as well as public offerings, private placements and organizing and licensing intermediaries of capital markers with authorities.
The M&A team at the firm is recognized in the market for its work in complex transactions for local and international clients. The team advises buy side and sale side deals and has handled numerous high-profile transactions
The firm’s project development team is known for its experience in power, oil and gas and infrastructure. The team has a wealth of experience in complicated governmental projects including PPPs and public concessions.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Macquarie Bank, Kraton Corporation, Centauro, Weatherford International, Goldman Sachs do Brasil and Estácio Participações.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
"Excellent negotiation skills, very thorough process and analysis. Complete knowledge about the subject."
Project development
"This is a unique contract the first of its kind in country."
Ulhôa Canto Rezende & Guerra Advogados
Ulhôa Canto Advogados is a business law firm founded in 1959. It is present in two locations: Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.
Focusses/specialisms
The firm has expertise in mergers, acquisitions and financing rounds. It represents strategic buyers and sellers across numerous industries including automotive, consumer goods and services, real estate and financial services.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include BRF, Tupy, Vordere and Weel BSD Fomento Mercantil.
Research period review: 30th edition (2019/2020)
Over the research period the firm advised strategic buyers and sellers in acquisitions and mergers. The team also represented start-ups in their financing rounds. These transactions spanned industries including fintech, real estate, auto and technology.
Deal highlights: 30th edition (2019/2020)
BRF R / Marfrig Global Foods merger
MarketUp Series A financing
Tupy €210 million acquisition of Fiat Chrysler cast iron components business
Vaz Buranello Shingaki & Oioli Advogados
VBSO was founded in 2009. The firm specializes in banking and capital markets, corporate and agribusiness law. The firm has an office in Sao Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The banking team is experienced in advising clients on regulatory matters, debt restructuring and loans.
The capital markets team has solid experience in debt transactions and instruments. The team is known for its work for clients in the agribusiness sector. Services include public and private issuances of promissory notes, debentures, securitization operations and agricultural business receivable certificates.
M&A work at the firm is focused on M&A, joint ventures and corporate transactions. The team advises on project organization and contract drafting. The team advises on sale side and buy side transactions.
The project finance team advises on debt restructuring and debt issues for infrastructure, energy and public transit projects.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Banco Itaú, Bank of America Merril Lynch Rabbot Serviços de Tecnologia, Itaú Unibanco and Riopar Participações.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Capital markets: Debt
"Creative structuring process, highly participative and contributive team."
Capital markets : Equity
"Qualidade, agilidade, conhecimento e custo "
VBD Advogados
VBD Advogados was founded in 2017. A key partner in terms of the firm’s corporate and M&A work is Partner Rafael Cury Bicalho. The firm has an office in Sao Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A practice at the firm assists clients in a variety of sectors, including telecommunications, banking, retail, construction and logistics. Services include contract negotiation, due diligence, structuring and incorporating companies and asset transfer.
Key clients
Key clients include Bioenergética Vale do Paracatu, Decolar.com, Concourse Telecomunicações Brasil and Sumerbol Supermercado.
Client feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
M&A
"They provided me with personalised and dedicated partner support during the course of the litigation for over a year."
Veirano Advogados
Veirano Advogados was founded in 1972. The firm has a focus on business law and advises multinational companies in a variety of sectors. The firm has four offices in Brazil, located in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Porto Alegre and Brasilia. The firm is a member of several international legal groups including World Services Group, Lus Laboris, IsFin and GALA.
Focusses / specialisms
The banking and finance team advises on national and cross-border transactions. The firm has experience with secured credit facilities, mezzanine financing, structured receivables arrangements and acquisition finance.
The capital markets team at the firm represents clients in mining, oil and gas, agribusiness, telecommunications and energy sectors. The team represents issuers, fund managers, hedge funds and other investors in transactions.
The M&A practice is recognized for advising on high-profile transactions. The team advises on buy and sell side acquisitions, joint ventures, private equity and other types of deals. Sector wise, the firm has expertise in mining, infrastructure, electricity, agribusiness, telecommunications and more.
The projects group at the firm advises on all phases of project development, including financing, corporate and regulatory assistance. The practice assists industries like oil and gas, roads, logistics and infrastructure.
The restructuring and insolvency practice at the firm is known for representing national and international banks, debenture holders and investors.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Ambev, Bradesco, JPMorgan Chase Bank, Claro, BASF, Lundin Mining Corporation, Itaú BBA, Ternium Brasil, Siemens and Shell.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Capital markets: Structure finance and securitization
"Assertively, Diligence, Tempestive and enormous Technical Knowledge."
M&A
"They are very dedicated, with good thermal quality and services always with excellent service."
Vella Pugliese Buosi Guidoni
Vella Pugliese Buosi e Guidoni Advogados was founded in 2005. It is a full-service firm with two offices in Brazil, in Sao Paulo and Brasilia. The firm is part of a strategic alliance with Dentons, offering the firm a global reach and access to international expertise.
Focusses / specialisms
The banking and finance team at the firm advises local and international clients on financial transaction structuring. Services the firm provides include financial system regulatory advisory, private banking and wealth management and privatizations and infrastructure investments.
The capital markets practice advises on debt issues, promissory note issues and securitizations.
The M&A team at the firm provides its services to buyers and sellers in a variety of sectors, including private equity funds, energy, oil and gas, finance, media and prominent publicly held companies, both national and international.
The projects team focuses on domestic and cross-border financing in airports, highways, railroads, oil and gas, power and more. The team advises on infrastructure PPPs, as well as infrastructure financing and funds.
Key clients
Key clients for the firm include Barclays, Banco Santander, Bain Capital, BTG Pactual, PayPal, Morgan Stanley Toronto Stock Exchange, Terna, Roku, Naturgy and UBS.
Client feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
"Knowledge and quality of service."
"The firm has a great expertise in M&A and a great communication with the clients."
Viseu Advogados
Founded in 1994, Viseu Advogados is a full-service firm located in Sao Paulo.
Focusses / specialisms
The M&A team at the firm advises Brazilian and international clients in mergers, spin-offs and acquisitions. It has strengths in sectors such as insurance, healthcare, manufacturing, defense and technology.
Key clients
Among the clients of the firm are Panasonic Brasil, Wella, Western Union, Awa Minerações and Teak Resources Company.
