Herbert Smith Freehills LLP
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP has 'a team of highly skilled attorneys who are well-versed in all aspects of debt capital markets, including structuring and negotiating complex debt transactions'. One client remarks that the firm stands out for 'its commitment to client service, taking the time to listen to clients' needs and concerns'. It has a strong base of issuer and manager clients, among them Airbus, Severn Trent and National Grid Electricity Distribution. The firm is also one of the leading players in the African debt capital markets. Global head of debt capital markets Amy Geddes is 'always available to give strategic advice and guidance'. She advised insurer Great-West Lifeco Inc. on its offering of €500m in standalone bonds. Head of US securities Tom O’Neill and US securities partner Dinesh Banani frequently handle Rule 144A securities offerings. Jake Jackaman, who handles EMTN programmes, ESG-related bond issues and trustee matters, acted for Northern Powergrid (Northeast) PLC in a £350m bond issue. Gabrielle Wong is also recommended for US law transactions. Omar Shafi joined Sidley Austin LLP.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘HSF has a team of highly skilled lawyers who are well-versed in all aspects of debt capital markets, including structuring and negotiating complex debt transactions.'
'One of the things that sets HSF apart is their commitment to client service. They take the time to listen to their clients' needs and concerns, and work closely with them to achieve their goals.'
'They are also highly responsive and always available to provide guidance and support when needed.’
‘Amy Geddes is a super debt capital markets lawyer who is always available to give strategic advice and guidance. She coordinates the work of team extremely well.'
'Matthew Oliver is a standout associate.’
Key clients
- Glanbia Co-operative Society Limited
- Orange
- Severn Trent
- Airbus
- Brookfield
- Bevco Lux
- Jet2
- Hammerson
- Weir Group
- G4S
- WH Smith
- Iberdrola
- Treasury Corporation of Victoria
- Great-West Lifeco Inc.
- National Grid Electricity Distribution
- Northern Powergrid
- Amcor
- Growthpoint
- JP Morgan Global Growth & Income plc (JGGI)
- First Investment Bank
Work highlights
- Advising Airbus in connection with its EUR12 billion EMTN programme, including its updates, issuances thereunder and supplements to the programme.
- Advised the Managers in connection with a bond issuance by Hiscox Ltd (an international specialist insurer).
- Advised National Grid Electricity Distribution on the update of its GBP6 billion EMTN programme and its issues thereunder. This was an important matter as it was the first time NGED updated and utilised its EMTN programme since 2020, following their acquisition of Western Power Distribution which HSF also advised on.
Lawyers
Leading individuals
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Amy Geddes