Led by Michael Jünemann, who is well versed in DLT, crypto and initial coin offerings (ICO), Bird & Bird LLP's team covers various fintech matters, including the support for international start-ups as well as credit and payment companies in BaFin procedures, the structuring and implementation of platforms and business models, including regulatory issues, as well as matters pertaining to blockchain and crypto assets. The latter area is a focus of Johannes Wirtz (fintech, insurtech and regtech) and associate Timo Förster, who offers additional expertise in tokenisation and smart contracts.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Bird & Bird is a very professional practice and has extensive and in-depth knowledge of the FinTech sector. Building on many years of experience in the field of technology law, the integration of financial services law is seamless and the experts have proven their competence time and again. '

  • 'Our collaboration with this law firm has been consistently positive and has exceeded our expectations in many ways. The firm is characterized by a remarkable combination of expertise, commitment and innovative strength that makes it unique.'

  • 'In terms of team strengths, it is obvious that the lawyers here not only have exceptional legal knowledge, but also an impressive ability to collaborate and solve problems. The open and efficient communication within the team plays a key role in ensuring that our concerns have always been dealt with quickly and competently.'
  • 'Our collaboration with Johannes Wirtz and Timo Förster was extremely positive and exceeded our expectations in every respect. Both lawyers are characterized by remarkable professional expertise and a deep understanding of our specific needs.'

  • 'Johannes Wirtz impresses with his strategic approach and his ability to explain complex legal issues in an understandable way. His analytical skills and precise legal advice have always impressed us. We particularly value his proactive way of identifying problems and proposing innovative solutions that give us a clear advantage. Johannes' commitment and reliable nature make him an indispensable partner in all our legal matters.'
  • 'Compared to other firms, Bird & Bird LLP stands out for its strong technology expertise and interdisciplinary collaboration, which enables it to provide comprehensive and forward-looking legal advice. The practice has positioned itself as a leader by adopting advanced technologies to increase efficiency and by placing a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, both internally and in its advisory practice. '
  • 'Timo Förster particularly impresses with his innovative approach and extensive experience in the FinTech sector. He is distinguished by his ability to proactively anticipate regulatory developments and help clients prepare for them. His technological affinity and deep understanding of the business models of FinTech companies make him an indispensable advisor for clients operating in this dynamic field.'
  • 'Michael Jünemann: Always approachable and a pleasure to work with. His extensive experience in working with the regulator makes his advice invaluable.'

Key clients

  • Bunq
  • Concedus GmbH/ Concedus Digital Assets GmbH
  • Ecoligo
  • Europäische Kommission
  • Mastercard
  • WiWin

Work highlights

  • Lead advice on the establishment and implementation of the Pan-European Blockchain Sandbox, a three-year project for the European Commission.
  • Advising Ecoligo on the structuring of an impact investment platform with regard to the European crowdfunding regulation.
  • Advising WiWin on the European Crowdfunding Service Provider Regulation (ECSPR) with particular attention to the requirements and approval of a license application.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Michael Jünemann

Other key lawyers

Johannes Wirtz, Timo Förster