Clifford Chance LLP remains a dominant force in Latin America banking and finance, thanks in large part to its close connections to leading development finance institutions (DFIs), multilateral agencies (MLAs) and export credit agencies (ECAs). This is complemented by a lengthy list of commercial lender clients. Although it has successfully targeted the major markets of Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Chile, the practice has also demonstrated a commitment to smaller jurisdictions such as Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. In addition to a plethora of new money financings, the firm has also achieved a strong position in debt restructurings and refinancings, including those in the aviation sector. It has achieved additional prominence in ESG and sustainability-linked financings. Fabricio Longhin is a partner in the Americas energy and infrastructure group, a top-rated practitioner in project financings throughout Latin America, including toll road financings in Colombia, along with other transport infrastructure and renewable energy financings in multiple jurisdictions; he is also noted for acquisition financings in the energy and infrastructure sectors. Jessica Springsteen, a Peruvian-American, is another key member of the team, recognised for her expertise in renewables and energy transition financings, including green hydrogen and battery storage projects. New York partner Hugo Triaca is a pivotal member of the Latin America team, showcasing extensive expertise in debt financings and capital markets transactions. Counsel Alberto Haito is another senior member of the practice, often taking leading and key support roles in major energy and infrastructure financings, including those by DFIs, agencies and commercial lenders. Named individuals are based in Washington DC unless stated otherwise.
Key clients
- AES
- CAF (Corporacion Andina de Fomento)
Work highlights
- Advised Banco Santander, JPMorgan Chase Bank and a group of financial institutions on the refinancing of the Pamplona – Cúcuta project, part of Sacyr’s fourth generation (4G) road concession programme in Colombia.
- Advised Brazilian pulp and paper producer Klabin in connection with its unsecured, dual tranche 5-year $595m syndicated loan.