Mayer Brown International LLP

Led from London by Islamic finance specialist Barry Cosgrave and also able to draw upon the expertise of banking, securities and corporate lawyers throughout the firm's expansive international network, Mayer Brown International LLP is well-positioned to advise a myriad stakeholders, including asset managers and banks, on complex global mandates involving Shariah compliant structures or forming a part of hybrid structure alongside conventional debt. Eschewing the more commoditised mandates favoured by some of the ranked firms, the team's sweet-spot lies in structuring novel and often first-of-kind transactions requiring a partner-led approach and deep knowledge of Sharia principles. In this context, Cosgrave is not only active on new money loan and debt capital markets (including structured financings) mandates but also regulatory matters, in addition to work involving distressed debt/restructuring. Another strength of the team is on the development of products allowing Shariah compliant investors access to conventional funds and thereby affording them the ability of investing in individual assets using conventional leverage.