A popular choice for lenders, sponsors and operators, VdA is a point of reference for the development and financing of significant infrastructure projects in Portugal and African Portuguese-speaking countries. Manuel Protásio, a project finance specialist, leads a team of ‘high-quality professionals who combine excellent technical skills with a broad business vision’. Vanda Cascão works predominantly on the development side, with a particular focus on energy, water and infrastructure projects both in Portugal and abroad. Teresa Empis Falcão leverages her government experience to advise on PPPs and privatisation procedures. Paulo de Barros Baptista stands out for his longstanding experience in project development and knowledge of the transport sector, while Ana Luís de Sousa focuses on the implementation of energy projects.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'The team that advises us contributes as part of our management team, not just as external consultants. They help to think about everything.'
'The team have a strong understanding of Angolan law.'
'It is more than a consultant. It is a partner that brings together a group of high-quality professionals who combine excellent technical skills with a broad business vision.'
'Paulo de Barros Baptista is a committed, dedicated and technical. He is a professional with excellent problem-solving skills.'
'Ana Luis de Sousa - very solid knowledge of energy law.'
'Ana Luís de Sousa's team is one we have collaborated with for many years, consistently demonstrating exceptional expertise and thorough oversight of the matters entrusted to them. From the precision of their due diligence analyses to their approach to identifying and mitigating risks, their work is always exemplary.'
'I would also highlight their remarkable skill in drafting and structuring contractual documentation for complex agreements, ensuring it is both comprehensive and client-friendly. Additionally, their commitment to meeting delivery deadlines is outstanding. They remain our team of choice whenever possible.'

Key clients

Brisa-Auto-Estradas de Portugal, S.A.
APL Europe | Newcon40, Unipessoal, Lda. (vehicle)
Trafigura Pte. Ltd, Mota-Engil Engenharia e Construção África, S.A. and Vecturis S.A.
Bpifrance, La Banque Postale and La Banque Postale Asset Management
Banco Comercial Português, S.A. and Caixa Central – Caixa Central de Crédito Agrícola Mútuo, Crl.
Banco Santander Totta, S.A., Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, S.A., Caixa Geral de Depósitos, S.A., and the European Investment Bank
Greenvolt – Energias Renováveis, S.A.
Government of Cabo Verde (Ministry of Finance - Unidade de Gestão de Projetos Especiais)

Work highlights

Advising Brisa on a Portuguese-governed bond and loan financing system.
Advising on the drafting, negotiation and execution of the concession agreements related to the operation and management of the Angolan portion of the Lobito Corridor.
Advising a bank syndicate on the financing operation of the new “Hospital de Lisboa Oriental” project.

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