Joel Benjamin
Kinstellar LLPNoted for its expertise within the banking sector of Kazakhstan, Kinstellar LLP regularly acts as counsel on both the buyer and seller side of M&A transactions for major domestic and international banks. The team is experienced in working on cross-border transactions, including those involving documents governed by English law, with one standout matter involving advising the establishment of a digital bank, which included an in-depth analysis of Kazakhstan’s regulatory framework for digital banking. Joel Benjamin co-leads the practice and has been involved in a broad spectrum of transactions, from trade finance to M&A deals. Adlet Yerkinbayev also co-leads the team and focuses on large-scale M&A projects for clients in the banking sector. Kuanysh Shekerbekov and Kuanysh Kanlybayev are other key names from the firm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'This practice stands out for its deep industry knowledge, exceptional client commitment, and a proactive approach to legal challenges. Potential clients would appreciate the breadth of team's capabilities.'
- 'Kinstellar is distinguished by its client-focused approach, providing tailored legal strategies that address both corporate and non-standard, complex issues. The team excels in navigating intricate legal challenges, offering deep expertise.'
- 'The team is extremely hard-working, responsive and adopts a very commercial and international approach to work, which is unique in the areas they operate in.'
- 'Kinstellar was outstanding in the representation our company. All the attorneys were very responsive and knowledgeable in a number of different practice areas.'
Key clients
- Baiterek National Managing Holding Joint Stock Company
- Halyk Bank
- Solva Group
- Alvari
- KazMicroFinance
- European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
- Kaspi
- China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation
Work highlights
- Advising Baiterek National Managing Holding Joint in connection with the sale of Bereke Bank.
- Advised Halyk Bank on the sale of 100% of its shares in Kyrgyzstan to a consortium of buyers within the investment group VIsor International DMCC.
- Provided legal advice to Solva on the structuring of ownership and the establishment of a new bank.
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Practice head
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Joel Benjamin, Adlet Yerkinbayev