Seward & Kissel LLP

Praised for being ‘sensible and reasonable in its approach to negotiation’, Seward & Kissel LLP’s sector focus makes it a popular address for clients from the financial services sector, such as investment management firms and broker-dealers, as well as for shipping and offshore wind companies. The New York-based team’s sizeable roster of non-US-based clients is a testament to its cross-border expertise. Leadership duties are divided between partners Craig Sklar and James Abbott. Sklar, who is praised for his ‘impressive, collaborative approach’ to M&A deals, is well-versed in maritime transactions, while Abbott is a key contact for inbound US work. Nick Katsanos is geared to handle roll-ups in the veterinary industry. Danielle Lemberg, who was promoted to partner in July 2023, handles a broad spectrum of transactional work and is a popular choice for private equity clients.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘They are very efficient in handling complex matters, they show strong availability, and have strong negotiation skills. We seem to always be a priority for them. We always have the right staffing in place with very senior involvement on all matters. We work with very professional and knowledgeable professionals at all levels.’
‘James Abbott is efficient and resourceful. He is definitely our trusted advisor on all US legal matters. He understands very quickly the dynamics of all situations.'
'Gerhard Anderson is very experienced in all financial technical matters.'
'They all have a very reasonable and efficient approach to handling matters, especially as part of the negotiation process. I appreciate their good appreciation of the market practice that would be acceptable for a counterpart. ’
‘We have worked with the Seward & Kissel team for 5 years. When we have a deal that needs to be done, the team is prepared to be sensible and reasonable in its approach to negotiation, rather than getting stuck on legal points which are out of proportion to the legal risks posed by the deal. This allows us to execute deals quickly, which is often essential to preserve the value of the target entity.’
‘James Abbott has a level of understanding of the issues which allows him to take views confidently and give practical advice. He is extremely responsive and unflappable - too extremely important qualities in a relationship partner. We have also worked with Danielle Lemberg and she is extremely effective.’
‘Attention to detail, quality, responsiveness, balanced and thoughtful approach, depth of team, were all exemplary.’
‘Craig Sklar and Nick Katsanos were the main engagement partners. Their own expertise was excellent, however, equally as important they knew their limitations and when to draw upon their colleagues who specialized in other areas. Impressive, collaborative approach, with no egos.’

Key clients

AlTi Global, Inc.
Diana Shipping Inc.
Growth Catalyst Partners
Estancia Capital Management
Stable Rock Solutions, LLC
Frontline Ltd.
Marex Group
TechInsights Inc.
Kudu Investment Management
iM Global Partner

Work highlights

Advised UK-based broker-dealer Marex plc in connection with its acquisitions of ED&F Man Capital Markets and the legacy prime brokerage business of TD Cowen.
Advised Tiedemann Advisors and TIG Advisors in connection with their merger with UK-based Alvarium and a SPAC to form publicly-traded investment manager AlTi Global, Inc.
Advised offshore wind turbine company Eneti Inc. in connection with its merger with Denmark-based Cadeler A/S.

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