At Dentons, ‘the team’s key capabilities and strengths lie in its ability to understand innovative new derivative products and market practice’. Active across the full range of derivatives, the firm is increasingly involved in complex and innovative areas of the market, including crypto derivatives, deal-contingent swap transactions, and securities lending. Practice head Matthew Sapte is a standout adviser on Islamic derivatives, ESG-compliant instruments, and OTC derivatives across a host of asset classes. Emerging talent Luke Whitmore focuses on the prime brokerage and futures markets. In late 2023, the firm hired the vastly experienced Toby Gray from Linklaters, whose expertise in securitised derivatives, synthetic securitisation, SPV-based structured finance transactions, and bespoke repackaging, notably for Japanese banks, expands the firm’s capability into structured products. Gray is also a key adviser to pension funds and hedge funds, and recently advised one fund client on a £170m first-loss tranche of credit protection on a £2bn tailored portfolio of loans.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘A very good in-depth understanding of our business model allows them to price very keenly and accurately, reducing the in-house admin burden significantly. Their model also works really well: great partner availability when needed.’
‘Luke Whitmore is always available and responsive, and tenacious when needed!'
'The Denton’s team punches above its weight. The practice is solid across the derivatives/structured products area, with great expertise in the developing/emerging markets, which not all firms possess. The team’s knowledge of the repo/securities lending space is also commendable.'
'Luke Whitmore is very able technically and provides sound, pragmatic advice. He advises not only on transactional work but also turns his hand to delivering critical regulatory projects, which is an important skill set for derivatives lawyers in this time of regulatory change.'
'Matthew Sapte is a solid advisor. His knowledge of derivatives and banking matters is well regarded. He provides clear and concise advice on complex issues. His expertise particularly for work connected with the Middle East and CEE is important to us.'
'Worth mentioning is Giuliano Roberti, an associate. We appreciate his technical skills, and great familiarity with the law and practice connected with margin rules. Giuliano understands the requirements of large financial services firms and is a pleasure to deal with.'
‘The team's key capabilities and strengths lie in its ability to understand innovative new derivative products and market practice in how to address new regulations.’
‘The client comes first, delivering on what's been agreed in terms of work and timeline. Thinking along with what is best for the client. Flexibility when needed.’
Key clients
- BNP Paribas
- Wells Fargo
- Lloyds Bank
- Natixis
- LANDESBANK BADEN-WÜRTTEMBERG
- Janus Henderson
- Linear Investments Limited
- Titan Asset Management
- Emirates NBD
- Leonteq Securities
- EMRGO
- Societe Generale
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Matthew Sapte