Capital Markets: Equity - Germany
What the team is known for
Latham & Watkins houses highly regarded DCM and ECM teams, allowing a comprehensive coverage across both market segments. The law firm is renowned for its market-leading expertise in high-yield bond deals under both German and New York law. The team also assists with Yankee bonds and continues to advise clients on the offering of convertibles and other equity-linked products. The law firm additionally enjoys an impeccable standing in the ECM market. The top-tier practice advises prominent corporates and underwriting banks on cross-border IPOs, capital increases and rights issues. It is also very experienced in handling dual-track M&A and listing mandates. Latham & Watkins' global network renders it a prime choice for international clients.
Strengths
"The team provided reasonable and realistic quotes at the outset, a high commitment to the budget, and very good value for money because of high service levels."
"Latham & Watkins has a good bench of associates besides hands-on partners."
"The team are both extremely knowledgeable and pragmatic."
"They have very good industry knowledge and understanding for commercial issues."
Work highlights
Latham & Watkins advised CHEPLAPHARM on a EUR550 million investment by Atlantic Park and GIC via a subordinated convertible instrument that will mandatorily convert into ordinary shares.
Notable practitioners
Leading practitioner Oliver Seiler is widely regarded as one of the top ECM experts in Germany. He is regularly mandated for high-profile IPOs, capital increases and complex dual-track transactions including de-SPAC mergers. "Oliver Seiler is a superb German ECM partner. He brings international and local German teams together and ensures consistent standards and that solutions are found." "He is incredibly user-friendly, hard-working and rigorous." "Oliver Seiler is very experienced, pragmatic and has a high willingness to provide an excellent service." "Oliver Seiler provides very strong strategic advice."
As a leading expert in the DCM world, Rüdiger Malaun is praised for his excellence in complex bond issuances, with a particular strength in high-yield and green bonds. He impresses with his prowess in handling New York law-governed senior secured notes under Rule 144A. "Rüdiger Malaun is the figurehead of Latham's high-yield practice in Germany. He is a star in that area."
David Rath is sought after for his expertise in IPOs, dual-track transactions and de-SPACs. He is particularly active advising underwriting consortiums. "David Rath offers great balance, judgement, rigour and hard work, and is also incredibly good at finding solutions and leaving no stone unturned." "David Rath is a next-generation partner who is highly sophisticated and service-oriented."