Capital Markets: Debt - Australia
What the team is known for
Herbert Smith Freehills is recognised for its highly respected team handling an array of DCM, ECM and securitisation work. The equity capital markets team maintains a strong reputation for acting for issuers on highly complex and innovative matters, including high-profile IPOs, dual listings and hybrid issuances. The firm boasts significant experience in the Eurobond and US private placement spheres. Herbert Smith Freehills is also noted for its depth of experience interacting with key regulators in the market. Its key clients include Goldman Sachs, UBS and Commonwealth Bank of Australia.
Work highlights
Herbert Smith Freehills acted as Australian counsel for Air New Zealand on its two-for-one traditional renounceable rights issue, raising NZD1.2 billion.
The firm advised Ampol on its issue of AUD150 million subordinated sustainability-linked notes, which are convertible to shares if not redeemed at the first call date.
Notable practitioners
Philippa Stone is widely reputed as the dominant practitioner with regard to ECM matters, often being the lawyer of choice for issuers, underwriters and lead managers on major IPOs and secondary capital raising. "She is the doyenne in the market." "Philippa is undoubtedly the leader of equity capital markets in Australia."
Andrew Booth has an established practice representing lenders and corporates in the establishment of AMTN programmes as well as bond issuances.
Michael Ziegelaar has an active practice advising corporates on institutional placements, security purchase plans and IPOs. "Michael is extremely experienced and capable in the Australian market. He is a very thorough yet commercial practitioner."
Patrick Lowden is an established DCM lawyer with a wealth of experience acting for clients on debt capital raisings, including note and bond issuances. "I would always ask Patrick to work on our bond issuances."
Tim McEwen is a highly regarded lawyer in the ECM space who frequently acts for corporate clients in relation to issuances and listings. "Tim is a very strong and steady provider of legal advice. We are always in safe hands."
Philip Hart advises issuers, joint lead managers and underwriters on a range of IPOs, offerings and raisings.
