Baker McKenzie is a reference for leading French and international banks as well as international ECAs in the field of trade and export finance, ESG and corporate financing of companies operating in emerging markets, especially in Turkey and Africa. Domestically, the team also advises companies on the granting of facilities (ESG, RCF). The practice is led by the highly experienced Michael Foundethakis, who is supported by Gonzague Basso. Thomas Lefebvre left the firm in December 2024.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'In-depth knowledge of cross-border financing, including managing of local law specifics.'
'Michael Foundethakis combines in-depth knowledge and leadership qualities.'
'Gonzague Basso has very good knowledge of processes, and skillful negotiations capabilities. Pleasant collaboration and availability.'
Key clients
- bioMérieux
- BNP Paribas
- Société Générale
- Natixis
- Ardian (formerly AXA Private Equity)
- African Export-Import Bank
- PROPARCO (the subsidiary of the Agence française de Développement dealing with the private sector)
- Bank of America Merrill Lynch
- MUFG Bank
- Commerzbank
- SMBC
- ALD Automotive
Work highlights
- Advised BNP Paribas and CaixaBank in relation to Swedish export credit agency EKN covered facilities agreement provided to Bouygues Telecom SA to finance the import of 5G equipment from Ericsson AB in Sweden.
- Acting for bioMérieux in obtaining EUR 600,000,000 dual currency and ESG linked financing from a syndicate of banks led by Crédit Agricole and Natixis.
- Acted for Akbank in relation to its multi-million dual currency sustainability-linked term loan facilities agreement.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Michael Foundethakis