Merger control forms the basis of Ferrere’s competition practice and it remains at the forefront of the market in terms of notifications filed; the team has a proven track record in merger control transactions cleared by the competition authority. Anticompetitive conduct is another area of expertise, and the team is well-equipped to handle large-scale investigations, as well as claims related to abuse of dominance. The group has an impressive roster of local and international household names, from Grupo Vasquez to Disney, that it advises on best practices on a day-to-day basis. Practice head Verónica Franco ‘stands out’ as an active and established figure in the sector, boasting an extensive portfolio of notifications and filings on behalf of both national and multinational companies. Senior associate Fernanda Benítez participates in merger control procedures and advises foreign and local clients on the prevention of anticompetitive practices.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘I received timely, thorough advice regarding the unique application of certain contractual principles in specific South American countries and MERCOSUR countries generally.’

  • ‘Verónica Franco was highly efficient and provided rapid, thorough advice.’

  • ‘Ferrere has a comprehensive practice, essential for the analysis of antitrust matters. The firm's experience is notable and it stands out in the market advising both on notifications to the regulator and on the interpretation of measures and their potential scope.’

  • ‘Verónica Franco stands out for her specific preparation in competition, in addition to her vast practice in other subjects that complement the practice. In particular, it is worth highlighting the depth of interpretation provided by Verónica, comparing local regulation with the international reference legislation from which these standards come. This range of analysis is especially useful for identifying trends, improving internal practices and clearly explaining antitrust concepts within the organisation.’

  • ‘Very serious, human and dedicated team. Very available.’

  • ‘This law firm is our partner firm in South America. They are responsible and efficient and deliver quality work within often tight deadlines. They know well the transportation sector, and Verónica Franco is a partner who deserves to be highlighted.’

Key clients

  • Disney
  • Cervepar (Anheuser Busch-Inbev)
  • MSC – Mediterranean Shipping Company
  • Grupo Vazquez
  • Syngenta AG
  • Ebanx
  • J&F Investimentos
  • AGCO
  • Kingspan

Work highlights

  • Advising Ebanx as plaintiff in an abuse of dominance case brought against VISA International.
  • Advising AGCO Corporation in obtaining clearance from the Paraguayan Competition Authority for a JV that will result in the transfer of the business and agricultural division of Trimble to a JV, of which AGCO will acquire 85%.
  • Advising Rabo Partnership on competition matters related to the merger process of Banco Regional, of which Rabo Partnerships was the majority shareholder, with Sudameris Bank.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Verónica Franco