With extensive experience in both buy and sell-side mandates, Felsberg Advogados handles an impressive volume of mid-market deals ranging from M&A to incorporations, restructurings and joint ventures. Rated for its strong presence in the technology sector, it is a go-to choice for investors, private equity firms, financial institutions, emerging growth businesses and venture capital funds. The group frequently works in close collaboration with the firm’s bankruptcy and restructuring practice, and is also well placed to handle distressed M&A and corporate reorganisations. Buyers, sellers and investors (most notably clients operating in the pharmaceutical segment), often turn to Claudia Maniaci for assistance in corporate transactions. Evy Marques, who leads the start-ups and venture capital group, is also noted for her longstanding experience in M&A, corporate matters and commercial contracts. The ‘extremely technical’ João Carlos Mendonça specialises in cryptocurrency and blockchain, and is often engaged in corporate matters involving the tech sector. Maria Carolina Guazzelli is a key contact for retail and luxury goods companies, while Anneliese Eger is often retained by French and German clients in relation to their business endeavours in Brazil. Focused on M&A, contracts and technology, Gleycon Jonathan Queiróz stands out at the associate level, as does Bárbara Nátali Santos, who works in M&A and private equity transactions.

The ‘technical and business-oriented’ team at KLA Advogados continues to advise middle-market clients on the full slate of corporate transactions and shareholder issues. Acquisitions, incorporations, joint ventures and private equity investments are key areas of activity for the group, which stands out for its broad industry coverage that spans the technology, food and beverages, telecoms, infrastructure, education, energy, real estate and media sectors. Singled out for her experience in the technology, telecoms and life sciences segments, Karin Alvo has strong credentials in strategic M&A, private equity and venture capital deals. Mariana Cortez, a go-to for clients from the worlds of education and real estate, is an ‘excellent negotiator’, while Melissa Kanô, who heads up the Asian Desk, is recurrently sought out by companies from the advertising and energy spaces. Other individuals to note for corporate matters and M&A transactions include Alessandra Höhne and Luiz Filipe Aranha. Praised by clients for her ‘proficiency, attention, agility, timeliness and client service’, Patrícia Braga leads on cross-border M&A, PE and VC deals for US and German clients. Mário Fioratti works on complex technology and real estate-related transactions, while associate André Maruch maintains a broad practice in corporate and securities law, investment funds and foreign investment.

In the wake of its recent merger, the newly formed Madrona Fialho Advogados boasts a strong reputation in the mid-market M&A space. Fielding sizeable teams in São Paulo and Belo Horizonte, the firm handles strategically significant deals for both publicly-traded and private companies present in all core economic sectors, and demonstrates particular strength in the technology, telecoms, infrastructure, agribusiness, healthcare and food and beverages spheres. Based in São Paulo, Ricardo Madrona provides support to an impressive client roster in the context of M&A, corporate restructuring and joint ventures, which are also core areas of activity for Milena Coimbra Mazzini. In the same office, Danilo Mininel’s fields of expertise include M&A, corporate law and contractual matters, with a special focus on the retail, education, technology and healthcare sectors. Nair Veras Saldanha acts for domestic and international companies, financial institutions and investors in corporate transactions. Also noted, Luciana Felisbino and Luciano Fialho advise on M&A, private equity and corporate governance, while José Senedesi offers expertise in corporate reorganisations. Sitting in the Belo Horizonte office, Alice Dourado stands out for her knowledge of sector consolidation proceedings and strategic alliances, and Patricia Alvarenga works on domestic and cross-border corporate transactions. Roberto Pary joined the São Paulo-based group from Marcelo Tostes Advogados in August 2022.

Strategic buyers and sellers regularly turn to Vieira, Rezende, Barbosa e Guerreiro Advogados for guidance on the negotiation of M&A involving regulated sectors, corporate reorganisations and restructurings. The firm’s client roster also features an array of investors, financial institutions, asset managers, and private equity and pension funds engaged in mid-market deals involving a range of industries – most notably energy, financial services, energy, technology and education. Rated for its ‘excellent client service’, the group is co-led by São Paulo-based Paulo Albert Weyland Vieira, who works on buy and sell-side instructions, and is a key contact for Brazilian pension funds, and Cláudio Guerreiro, who leads on corporate matters out of the Rio de Janeiro office. In São Paulo, Ricardo Ariani Filho handles M&A and private equity deals (chiefly in the education segment), while Alberto Weyland Vieira is a go-to lawyer for oil, gas and offshore clients engaged in cross-border transactions, joint ventures and corporate restructurings. Practitioners to note in Rio include Felipe Hanszmann, who handles an impressive transactional workload and is also well versed in related disputes; recently promoted partner Ricardo Villela Mafra Alves Da Silva, who specialises in M&A, reorganisations and foreign investment; and associate Maria Ramos Dias.

Abe Advogados fields a ‘diverse, multidisciplinary team‘ which is a key port of call for clients across the technology, financial services, retail, agribusiness, education and energy sectors. Middle-market domestic and cross-border M&A are a mainstay for the practice, which stands out for its ability to advise international players, including Japanese clients, on the establishing and winding up of local operations. Commended for its ‘high technical quality‘, the department is jointly led by the ‘sharp‘ Marcos Seiiti Abe, who is particularly experienced in M&A involving distressed assets, and Fernando Zanotti Schneider, a key adviser on corporate transactions, joint ventures and foreign investment. William Joji Nakasone, who was promoted to partner in December 2022, brings together experience in M&A, restructurings and corporate governance.

Araújo e Policastro Advogados‘ corporate department helps clients of all sizes navigate complex issues in the context of domestic and cross-border transactions, encompassing M&A, joint ventures, restructurings and incorporations. A member of Nextlaw Global referral network, the firm is seen with great regularity advising on the Brazilian law aspects of global deals. In addition to its strong transactional capabilities, the group is also routinely engaged in corporate law matters, related disputes and succession planning issues. Founding partner Theodoro Araújo has a strong track record in corporate deals involving multiple jurisdictions; he oversees the practice alongside Camila Araújo, who is skilled in M&A and joint ventures involving the infrastructure and energy segments. Clients from the automotive sector turn to Tania Mara Ferreira for advice on M&A and contractual matters. Other key individuals include Fernanda Pereira Leite, a reference for foreign clients doing business in Brazil, and Bárbara Dos Santos Moreira, who focuses on non-transactional matters.

A trusted adviser to many buyers and sellers in the entire lifecycle of corporate transactions, ASBZ Advogados attracts instructions from a strong domestic client base operating in an array of sectors, including technology, energy, financial services, food and beverages, healthcare and real estate. The ‘technical‘ group is adept at handling middle and lower-middle market M&A, and is also skilled in corporate governance issues, strategic alliances and commercial agreements. Gabriela Claro is regularly sought out by investment funds, financial advisers, major corporations and family offices. Clients from the aviation, energy, healthcare, insurance and technology sectors turn to Ricardo Melaré for advice on M&A, private equity and venture capital deals, while Gustavo Rached Taiar is counsel of choice for several investment funds. Gustavo Abud Navacchia stands out at the associate level for his involvement in M&A in the technology and real estate spheres.

With a strong footprint in São Paulo and Belo Horizonte, Azevedo Sette Advogados demonstrates strength advising buyers and sellers – ranging from privately held companies to multinationals, and family offices – on middle-market M&A and smaller deals of national significance. Typical mandates for the team, which is well versed in cross-border matters, also include corporate reorganisations and commercial agreements. The group is spearheaded by Fernando Azevedo Sette in Belo Horizonte, a name to note for mining, construction and engineering clients who possesses over two decades’ experience in M&A, commercial contracts and succession planning, and Luiz Augusto Azevedo Sette in São Paulo, who is singled out for his knowledge of the TMT sector. Luis Ricardo Miraglia, who is particularly active in energy and mining-related transactions, Roberto Ribas Wilson, and recently promoted partner Eduardo Monteiro Moreira César are other key individuals in Belo Horizonte. Natasha Midori Hinata, who sits in the São Paulo office, was promoted to the partnership in January 2023.

B/Luz handles a steady flow of mid-market deals for a domestic and international clientele that includes a number of private equity firms, venture capital funds, emerging and mid-size companies in an array of sectors, most notably technology. Besides its solid track record in tech-related M&A, the group is also experienced in joint ventures and corporate matters involving the retail, media and consumer goods industries. Managing partner Luis Felipe Baptista Luz  leverages his strong background in tax, accounting and finance to advise high-net-worth individuals, family offices and multinationals on M&A transactions. Combining expertise in capital markets, M&A, corporate law and contracts, Jessica Bernstein Heumann is also active in corporate deals. Technology, healthcare and marketing are key sectors of focus for Érico Lopes Tonussi and senior associate Ana Carolina Chaves de Oliveira. Alexandre José De Pauli Santana, who is based in Londrina, and Rafael Peixoto Abal in Santa Catarina are also noted.

At BRZ - Barbosa, Raimundo, Gontijo, Câmara e Zanotta Advogados, the ‘very focused and specialised M&A team’ is routinely sought out by companies operating in a variety of industries, including healthcare, IT, telecoms and pharmaceuticals. Its impressive recent caseload includes various inbound investments, corporate restructurings, and private equity and venture capital deals. Managing partner Pedro Raimundo has handled several high-profile M&A in the healthcare sector; his areas of expertise encompass domestic and cross-border business transactions, and corporate and contractual matters. Praised for his ‘pro-deal vision’ and ‘dedication’, Rodrigo Câmara specialises in M&A and corporate reorganisations. Julio Barbosa and Alexandre Zanotta (the latter of whom combines extensive experience in M&A with in-depth knowledge of regulations), jointly head up the team with Raimundo and Câmara. Alessandra Salgado is often engaged by venture capital funds and VC-backed companies in relation to transactions and governance issues, while Ana Paula Deppe Leme demonstrates particular strength advising healthcare companies in M&A, private equity and corporate matters.

Candido Martins Advogados has considerable experience in middle-market and - increasingly - big-ticket M&A, acting on behalf of buyers and sellers across a multitude of industries. Demonstrating particular strength in the agribusiness, healthcare, energy, education and technology sectors, the firm – which recently opened an office in Madrid – is routinely retained by private equity firms on buy-side mandates, as well as on sales by family-owned businesses and acquisitions for large corporations. Founding partner Henrique Martins has a wealth of experience in the private equity space. He receives key support from a pair of capable young partners: Daniel Rodrigues Alves, who handles domestic and cross-border M&A involving several segments (with a special emphasis on agribusiness, energy, services and healthcare); and Mateus Lopes da Silva Leite, who brings together expertise in M&A, corporate and contractual matters, private equity and venture capital. Associate Raphael Pereira Arantes Pires is also active in transactional work, drawing on his experience in tax, accounting and wealth planning.

CGM Advogados ‘provides legal services of the highest quality’ to a diverse roster of international and domestic clients – including large corporations and emerging companies from the worlds of banking, chemicals, technology, life sciences, real estate and retail – on a variety of corporate work, ranging from corporate governance to reorganisations. Mid-market M&A is a key pillar of the practice, which is under the joint leadership of a capable trio: Adriano Chaves, who is rated for his ‘great technical and market knowledge’, is recommended for tech-related deals; René Gelman , who has recently advised on strategic alliances, corporate reorganisations, and investments; and the ‘business-focused’ Martim Machado, whose standing in the Brazilian M&A market spans three decades. The ‘pragmatic’ Marcia Mandelbaum is a ‘deal-maker’ for foreign companies investing in Brazil. Recently promoted partner Camila Cardinale focuses on M&A, corporate law and contractual matters.

M&A transactions, corporate reorganisations and strategic partnerships are key areas of focus for the group at GVBG - Gentil Monteiro, Vicentini, Beringhs e Gil Advogados, which is also well positioned to advise foreign clients on the setting up of operations in the country. Buyers and sellers – including private equity funds at all stages of the investment cycle – retain the team on various mid-market transactions concerning a host of industries, from agribusiness to technology. Devoted to corporate law, founding partner Fernando Gentil Monteiro handles M&A deals and corporate governance issues. Besides his solid track record in corporate transactions, Terence Beringhs is also adept in restructurings, joint ventures and foreign investments.

Huck, Otranto, Camargo Advogados is adept at handling both domestic and cross-border mid-cap transactions on behalf of buyers and sellers operating in a variety of industries, including pharmaceuticals, healthcare, real estate, energy, technology, chemicals and insurance. Joint ventures, private equity investments and corporate restructurings also feature in the team’s caseload, which has seen an increase in mandates from foreign clients looking to establishing operations in Brazil of late. The firm – which experienced a major loss with the departure of a team of 24 lawyers in early 2022 – has since sought to reposition itself in the corporate and M&A segment. Diego Billi Falcão, who has notable experience in transactions involving the banking sector, and Fernanda Annenberg, a reference for cross-border matters and strategic negotiations, are now the main points of contact at the firm for this type of work.

Mello Torres fields a team of specialist M&A practitioners who are the trusted advisers to a variety of longstanding and new clients operating in a range of sectors, notably agribusiness, life sciences, TMT, private equity, oil and gas, logistics and education. Specialising in M&A, corporate governance and private equity, Carlos Jose Rolim De Mello has recently led on big-ticket acquisitions, sales and business combinations. He heads up the group with Alexandre Simões Pinto, who is often retained by large multinationals from the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and chemicals segments, and Natália Teixeira Rabaça, who undertakes M&A, capital markets and corporate governance work. Vinícius Alvarez acts for both Brazilian and international players – including established companies and start-ups – regarding investments and regulatory issues.

At Benetti & Giammarino Advogados, the corporate and M&A team is well placed to advise Brazilian and international clients on the purchase and sale of assets and equity interests in companies operating in a range of sectors, including food and beverages, telecoms, media, infrastructure and technology. The practice, whose service offering covers all steps of the M&A process, is also adept at assisting with corporate restructurings, joint ventures and venture capital investments. With over 25 years’ experience in corporate and contractual law, Eduardo Benetti is frequently sought out by publicly held companies in relation to small and mid-cap M&A deals and related disputes. He oversees the practice with Pedro Giammarino, who excels in M&A, private equity matters and corporate restructurings.

Showcasing particular strength in the renewable energy, telecoms, technology, education, life sciences and real estate sectors, Dias Carneiro Advogados is skilled in domestic and cross-border M&A, including deals with ties to the US, China, Japan, Spain and various Latin American countries. On the non-transactional front, the group, which is praised for its ‘deep legal and industry knowledge’, also provides legal assistance in corporate governance issues. Focused on corporate, M&A and venture capital matters, Artur Fernandes Andrezo often acts for investors and start-ups in the purchase and sale of equity interests and assets. He jointly heads up the team with the ‘highly responsive’ Paula Seabra Carvalho Reis, who offers expertise in corporate restructuring and M&A, with a special emphasis on the infrastructure, real estate and energy segments. Débora Trovões Cabral and Max Ide Hasimoto, who were promoted to counsel and senior associate, respectively, in January 2022, are also active in transactional work.

Commended by clients for its ‘pro-deal stance’, FM/Derraik is reputed for its strength in the tech and start-up segments, and often advises acquirers and growth companies as targets in mid-market M&A. Foreign and domestic clients - including private equity firms, development banks, accelerators and start-ups - regularly turn to the team for advice on strategic investments. With a wealth of experience in M&A, venture capital and private equity transactions, Fabiana Fagundes has a solid background acting for companies from the technology, healthcare, retail and agribusiness sectors. Domestic and cross-border M&A are key areas of activity for Rodrigo Menezes, who is also skilled in the structuring of funds. Both practitioners, who are based in São Paulo, lead the practice alongside Carlos Derraik in Rio de Janeiro. Other individuals to note in the São Paulo office include: Pedro Ferreira, who is ‘extremely technical and knowledgeable of the start-up industry’; Juliene Piniano, a contact for private equity and venture capital investments; Marina Bittar, who handles M&A, joint ventures and restructurings; and corporate law specialist Gustavo Dalcolmo.

With a strong following among investment funds, banks, private equity firms, publicly traded companies and family offices, FreitasLeite Advogados is well equipped to support clients across the full spectrum of M&A and corporate matters. Rio de Janeiro-based co-head Pedro Afonso Gutierrez Avvad relies on his strong tax and accounting capabilities to structure small to mid-cap M&A and private equity investments. Fellow co-leader Claudio Fabricio Lima, who sits in the São Paulo office, is proficient in M&A involving the financial services, technology and services sectors, and also advises on restructurings and corporate governance issues. In addition to his transactional track record, Joaquim Chacur Mano stands out at the associate level for his involvement in mandates concerning shareholders’ activism and corporate disputes.

The ‘highly qualified [and] dedicated team’ at Gaia Silva Gaede Advogados oversees a diverse M&A caseload – including asset deals, the acquisition of equity interests, buyouts and share swaps – on behalf of domestic and foreign clients, from start-ups to publicly and closely-held corporations. Alberto Mori, who is based in São Paulo, has been at the helm of numerous M&A deals and corporate restructurings. Tax and M&A specialist Gerson Stocco de Siqueira leads the Rio de Janeiro office, while Antonio Carlos Pacheco, who handles tax, contractual and transactional matters, oversees the team in Curitiba. Names no note in Rio include Rejane Espósito, who regularly advises clients on day-to-day corporate matters, asset restructuring and joint ventures; and Guilherme Roxo, a key contact for the drafting and negotiation of shareholder agreements. Succession planning, corporate restructuring and foreign investments are key areas of expertise for Juliana Joppert Lopes in Curitiba, while Marcelo Teixeira Bernardini is an associate in São Paulo dedicated to corporate and contractual law.

Mid-size companies from the manufacturing, agribusiness, retail, services, education and IT sectors regularly seek out Gasparini, Nogueira de Lima e Barbosa Advogados’ assistance in the context of domestic and multijurisdictional business transactions. Its workload primarily consists of an array of M&A deals, commercial contracts and corporate restructurings; corporate governance is another area of expertise for the ‘helpful and professional team’. Skilled in M&A, corporate law, contracts and estate planning, Marcus Phelipe Barbosa de Souza is well versed in the structuring of inbound and outbound investments. He heads up the practice with Felipe Mavignier and Paula Taira Horiuti, both of whom have a wealth of experience in transactional and consulting matters.

Melcheds - Mello e Rached Advogados is home to seasoned corporate law attorneys, who often work with closely-held businesses and mid-market companies as buyers and sellers in M&A transactions. Investment funds and foreign corporations also turn to the company – which has been increasingly active in the technology and renewable energy sectors – for assistance in the acquisition of Brazilian targets. Rodrigo Mello possesses a strong transactional track record, covering sectors as diverse as telecoms, technology, construction and banking; he co-leads the department with Fernanda Passos, who often advises companies from a wide range of industries on daily corporate issues and commercial contracts, and Isabela Xavier, who is singled out for her international experience.

Peixoto e Cury Advogados attracts regular instructions from closely-held businesses, middle-market companies and private equity funds in relation to domestic and cross-border acquisitions, sales and corporate restructurings. The team is engaged by clients operating in a variety of sectors, ranging from marketing and advertising to consumer goods and chemicals. Singled out for his international experience, founding partner Pedro Cury leads on M&A, restructurings and asset management matters. Claudia Soares Garcia brings to bear her expertise in compliance, regulatory issues and corporate law to M&A mandates, including deals with multijurisdictional implications. Associate Bernardo Coelho Rezende Vieira excels in foreign investments and commercial contracts. Rafael Villac Vicente de Carvalho left the firm in March 2023.

Singled out for its cross-office collaboration, Souto Correa Advogados is a strong performer in the middle-market M&A space, where it supports companies of all sizes present in a range of industries, including energy, agribusiness, technology, infrastructure and manufacturing. Led from Porto Alegre by M&A, corporate and commercial specialist Carlos Fernando Souto and Rodrigo Tellechea, the group is proficient in the full array of corporate matters, from investment agreements to corporate restructuring and commercial contracts. M&A, joint ventures and corporate restructurings are key areas of focus for associate Martha Giugno Termignoni. Mauricio Negri Paschoal, Clarissa Yokomizo and Giedre Brajato left the firm in September 2023.

With a strong presence in the technology space, Bronstein, Zilberberg, Chueiri & Potenza Advogados ‘provides excellent services’ in sector-related transactions, including M&A, private equity deals and venture capital investments. Rated for being ‘highly experienced, attentive and efficient in the negotiation process’, the group is under the joint leadership of a seasoned quartet: Sergio Bronstein, whose ‘vast background in the technology sector allows him to provide innovative solutions’ in the context of complex M&A; Pedro Chueiri, who has a solid track record in cross-border transactions; Eduardo Zilberberg, a reference for venture capital matters; and Guilherme Potenza, who is often retained by investors, start-ups and innovative businesses. Showcasing extensive experience in M&A, venture capital and banking, André Neves regularly acts for investment funds and emerging growth companies (notably fintechs) in transactional work.

Led by Felipe Barreto Veiga, the ‘qualified team’ at BVA – Barreto Veiga Advogados assists domestic and foreign clients – as buyers and sellers – with tech-related transactions such as acquisitions, mergers, sales, incorporations and spin-offs. Veiga, who represents public and private companies, banks and investment funds in M&A, private equity and venture capital matters, receives key support from a strong team of lawyers who are rated for their ‘deep technical knowledge’. Tania Lehmann Ribeiro dos Santos frequently advises foreign clients on their business pursuits in Brazil, while Rafael Ferrão Teixeira and associate Lethycia Sant’Anna de Florencio are also recommended for corporate matters and M&A transactions.

Castro Barros Advogados handles a varied mix of business transactions for clients in the healthcare, insurance, retail, transport, defence, financial services and agribusiness sectors. Its practitioners are adept at handling corporate reorganisations, restructurings and mid-market M&A transactions for both buyers and sellers, including deals involving distressed assets. Corporate and M&A specialist Anna Cecilia Buff, who is knowledgeable regarding competition, antitrust and regulatory matters, has worked on several acquisitions, joint ventures, and shareholder and contractual issues. Helen Gaudio Valente Figurelli and Guilherme Tepedino Hernandez, who bring together expertise in M&A, commercial contracts and finance, are also part of the core team.

A go-to destination for clients from the technology, education and healthcare sectors, FAS Advogados, in cooperation with CMS’ primary focus is small to mid-cap M&A transactions. With a significant presence in both buy and sell-side deals, the group is also active advising on non-transactional corporate matters. Practice co-head Renata Homem De Melo stands out for her solid track record in M&A involving education and healthcare players. Fellow co-leader Carla Anastácio combines extensive experience in contractual and real estate matters with comprehensive knowledge of corporate law and capital markets. The firm, which has recently signed a cooperation agreement with international outfit CMS, is now better positioned to advise on cross-border matters.

Able to call upon a network of tax and employment experts, L.O. Baptista Advogados offers legal support to companies of all sizes operating in diverse sectors, notably energy, real estate, mining and technology. Typical instructions for the ‘excellent' team range from structuring strategic acquisitions and exits to investment rounds and corporate reorganisations; day-to-day corporate issues and commercial agreements are also among recent mandates. Standout practitioners include Daniela Zaitz, who excels in corporate restructurings and M&A deals, Cássia Monteiro, and Renata Castro Veloso, whose areas of expertise encompass M&A, joint ventures, succession planning and environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) issues. Marta Rodrigues, Esther Jerussalmy Cunha, Marcelo Trussardi Paolini and Maria Beatriz Grella Vieira (the latter warmly recommended by clients), are also noted.

Rayes & Fagundes Advogados Associados handles a varied middle-market M&A caseload, featuring deals in the technology, life sciences, food and beverage, education, energy and financial services industries. In addition to its solid credentials in domestic and cross-border M&A, the firm is also often engaged in corporate restructuring, shareholder agreements and post-closing issues. Senior associate Ludmila Passos Holtz works in corporate, contractual and capital markets matters; fellow senior associate Fernando Abel Evangelista is experienced in inbound investments involving the agribusiness, healthcare and entertainment segments; and associate Leonardo Noveti possesses a ‘great knowledge of the corporate area’, and advises on joint venture agreements and M&A transactions. Since publication, former practice head Fabiana Rodrigues da Fonseca has left the firm.

Sperling Advogados is a key port of call for a range of mid-size companies seeking advice on the full range of corporate transactions, including the setting up of business operations in Brazil. Day-to-day corporate matters, M&A transactions and contracts are core areas of activity for the team, which works in close collaboration with the firm’s tax, labour, competition, compliance and environmental practices. With over two decades’ experience in this space, Marcio Sperling is counsel of choice for international clients. He spearheads the team with Felipe Garcia De Souza, who is routinely instructed by private companies in M&A, joint ventures and restructurings, and Thomas Brink, a corporate, commercial and M&A specialist.

Themudo Lessa Advogados demonstrates strength advising buyers and sellers on middle and lower-middle market M&A, corporate restructurings and joint venture agreements. The team, which offers additional expertise in succession planning and corporate disputes, is under the joint leadership of three practitioners: Rogério Themudo Lessa, Marcos Lessa and Fernanda Mattar Mesquita, the latter of whom has a wealth of experience advising players from a multitude of economic sectors on contractual matters, corporate governance and M&A transactions. Daniela Mineko Noda assists financial institutions, publicly held companies and asset managers with financings and corporate deals.

VBSO Advogados’ M&A offering is especially concentrated on clients in the financial services, banking and asset management sectors, where the team is adept at handling middle-market M&A – on the buyer and seller sides – as well as joint ventures and corporate reorganisations. The ‘dynamic and competent team’ is particularly noted for its capabilities in multiparty corporate negotiations, and transactions with regulatory implications or requiring regulatory clearance. Founding partner Erik Oioli, who specialises in corporate law and governance issues, is seen with great regularity advising on the structuring of strategic alliances, joint ventures and business combinations. With extensive experience in M&A and other corporate transactions, Amanda Visentini Rodrigues also advises on private equity investments and corporate governance. Renata Simon, who joined from Candido Martins Advogados in January 2023, boosted the firm’s M&A offering. The group was further strengthened by the arrival of Rodrigo Felli Paes Barros from Lefosse Advogados in June 2022; Barros and Beatriz Soares Locoselli are both highlighted for their ‘very sharp business vision and profound knowledge of the complex Brazilian legal environment’.

Drawing on the firm’s capabilities in antitrust, finance, environmental, IP and tax law, Almeida Advogados is able to provide multidisciplinary services to clients engaged in M&A transactions, joint ventures and restructurings. With an impressive footprint across the country, the firm – which has been especially active in the energy and agribusiness sectors – stands out for its experience in representing minority shareholders in corporate disputes. Demonstrating in-depth knowledge of corporate, commercial, transactional and compliance matters, Andre De Almeida jointly heads up the practice with Pedro Tinoco, who leads on contractual and day-to-day corporate advisory matters, and Guilherme Doval, a name to note for corporate, mining and real estate mandates.

Bocater, Camargo, Costa e Silva, Rodrigues Advogados fields a team of specialist corporate law practitioners who are the trusted partners of a variety of longstanding and new clients operating in a range of sectors – notably energy, financial services, mining and technology. The group is engaged by mid-market companies and private equity funds in relation to joint venture agreements, incorporations and non-transactional corporate matters. On the advisory front, the team is particularly active representing companies and shareholders in administrative proceedings and regulatory matters before the Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM). Francisco da Costa e Silva draws on his previous experience at a development bank and as CVM’s Commissioner and Chairman to advise on complex M&A transactions. He co-leads the team with João Laudo De Camargo. Other key individuals include Maria Isabel do Prado Bocater and Bernardo Costa e Silva, the latter of whom is rated for his ‘strategic vision and deep knowledge of the law’.

In addition to its credentials in M&A, joint ventures, corporate reorganisations and governance issues, DDSA - De Luca, Derenusson, Schuttoff e Azevedo Advogados is well positioned to advise domestic and international clients operating in a diversity of sectors on the full-array of day-to-day corporate matters. Leading the practice, João Claudio De Luca Junior acts for financial institutions and companies – most notably players from the industrial and services sectors – in M&A and cross-border investments, while Guilherme Filardi stands out for his knowledge of corporate law and contractual matters. Associate Isabela Marques is active in the negotiation of commercial and corporate agreements.

Advising clients on the sale and acquisition of companies and assets is a core focus for the ‘very dilligent and efficient’ Fleury, Coimbra & Rhomberg Advogados, which is also adept at structuring and negotiating private equity deals, joint ventures and foreign direct investments. The group acts for a strong corporate client base, which operates in a variety of sectors – notably technology, healthcare, logistics, construction and banking. Eduardo Fleury is experienced in both domestic and cross-border M&A, the latter of which is also a strength for Lukas Rhomberg, a key contact for foreign investors. Marcelo Coimbra has led on several M&A transactions and corporate reorganisations, while Renata Camilo de Oliveira is especially active assisting international clients in their Brazil market entry. Renata Armonia is an additional name to note for M&A and corporate mandates.

With significant experience in corporate law, M&A, private equity and venture capital mandates, Graça Couto, Sequerra, Levitinas, Bicudo, Leal & Abby Advogados provides legal support to buyers and sellers in an array of transactional work, ranging from the incorporation of subsidiaries to the negotiation of strategic partnerships. Technology, sports, retail, pharmaceuticals and healthcare are all focus sectors for the group, which is well versed in acting for domestic and international clients – particularly those from the US, China, Spain, Canada and France – in regulatory issues involving listed corporations and the CVM. Natalie Sequerra, who works in local and cross-border M&A, private equity deals and investment rounds, oversees the practice group. João Gustavo Santiago is no longer at the firm.

i2a Advogados regularly handles a strong mix of mid-market deals for investment funds, start-ups, banking and financial services clients, and real estate players. With equally strong credentials in domestic and cross-border transactions, the group is also frequently engaged in non-transactional corporate law matters. Department head Marcos Sader steers the team in an array of M&A deals on behalf of real estate, banking and private equity clients. At associate level, Sader receives support from Alexis Borowik Rosa.

Loeser e Hadad Advogados attracts mandates from mid-market buyers and sellers active in a range of industries, most notably banking, food and beverage, retail, life sciences, energy and real estate. Domestic and international clients routinely seek the team’s advice on a variety of transactional matters, from corporate restructurings to M&A and divestments. Leading the practice, Enrique Tello Hadad handles business reorganisations, joint ventures, spin-offs and governance issues. Daniel Domenech Varga is proficient in both local and cross-border deals, and brings together expertise in M&A, commercial agreements and corporate governance. Raphael Valentim also excels in corporate restructuring and compliance matters. Senior associate Angelica Leite, whose expertise covers corporate governance and compliance, joined from Aprigliano Advogados in January 2022.

Machado Associados utilises its solid tax capabilities to act for both buyers and sellers in lower mid-market transactions, including inbound and outbound investments. Corporate restructurings, commercial agreements and corporate disputes are other areas of activity for the practice, which demonstrates notable strength in matters involving the infrastructure, cosmetics, real estate and education sectors. With combined experience in M&A, contracts, corporate restructuring and succession planning, Mauro Takahashi Mori acts for mid-size companies and family-owned businesses in a host of corporate mandates. Caio Fink Fernandes, who possesses in-depth knowledge of contractual issues, spin-offs and amalgamations, is also part of the core team.

Besides assisting clients throughout all stages of M&A deals, the ‘highly qualified’ Moreau Valverde Advogados also focuses on corporate restructuring, non-transactional corporate advice and commercial contracts. Clients from the worlds of agribusiness, technology, healthcare, consumer goods, real estate and financial services regularly turn to the team for assistance with private equity deals, shareholder issues and succession planning. Mariana Valverde (who specialises in corporate and fashion law), and Pierre Moreau (who has ‘deep legal knowledge’ and a ‘broad view of business’), jointly oversee the department. Jean Pierre Moreau leads on the firm’s most significant corporate and contractual matters. Associate Juliana Zanotto is a name to note for corporate, real estate and contractual mandates.

Best known for its strength in regulated sectors, Mundie e Advogados’ corporate and M&A group is a strong force in nationally significant business transactions in the telecoms, media, technology, energy, mining and infrastructure segments. Private equity mandates also feature on the team’s deal list. The practice is co-managed by Rodolpho Protasio, a reference for landmark transactions involving regulated assets, and corporate and finance specialist Eduardo Zobaran. Cesar Augusto Rodrigues De Carvalho, who was raised to the partnership in February 2023, is singled out for his experience in the technology and digital business spaces.

Orizzo Marques Advogados concentrates on small and mid-cap transactions on behalf of domestic and international companies operating in a multitude of sectors, including retail, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods and construction. Its broad service offering not only includes M&A, corporate restructuring and strategic contracts, but also covers succession planning, shareholder disputes and regulatory matters before the CVM. Alessandro Orizzo is entirely devoted to corporate and M&A mandates, while Fábio Marques, who has a notable background in accounting and tax planning, works primarily in investment rounds and restructurings. Other key practitioners include Guilherme Coltro and Débora Torres Paulo Ribeiro. Luiz Gustavo Mesquita is no longer at the firm.

With a diverse sector focus that includes agribusiness, chemicals, manufacturing and technology, PGLaw is well positioned to handle a multitude of corporate transactional matters, from early-stage investments to incorporations, post-closing obligations and compliance issues. Founding partner Carlos Portugal Gouvêa is often retained by clients in relation to sophisticated M&A deals, governance and contractual matters. He oversees the corporate practice, which also features associates Caio Henrique Yoshikawa, who is knowledgeable of corporate law, commercial contracts and finance; Rodrigo Fialho Borges, a key contact for emerging growth companies; and João Paulo Braune Guerra, whose areas of expertise include M&A, corporate restructuring, governance issues and administrative proceedings before the CVM.

Boasting a substantial national presence, Siqueira Castro – Advogados fields a team of specialised practitioners who are well versed in M&A, commercial contracting, corporate restructuring and non-transactional corporate matters. The group is led by Heitor Faro De Castro, who leverages his expertise in competition and tax law to handle domestic and cross-border deals. With over two decades’ experience in commercial and corporate matters, Sérgio Ricardo Fogolin is particularly experienced in the telecoms and automotive segments. Rodrigo de Macedo Soares e Silva is also proficient in contractual and commercial agreements.

Vidigal Neto Advogados’ caseload is populated by a number of smaller deals and middle-market M&A across various industries, including agribusiness, healthcare, mining, technology and financial services. In addition to its transactional skills, the group is also strong on corporate restructurings and distressed deals. The ‘young, dynamic and available’ Claudio Gomez leads the department, which is also regularly sought out by private equity firms, asset managers and investment banks.

Focused on assisting mid-market companies operating in a range of sectors with their transactional matters, Viseu Advogados offers Brazilian and foreign entities partner-led advice on mergers, consolidations, spin-offs and daily corporate matters. Its sectoral coverage is broad; clients operate in an array of industries, including insurance, oil and gas, cosmetics, technology, retail, financial services and healthcare. American and European companies looking to establish or expand their operations in Brazil also recurrently turn to the department, which is under the leadership of Manoel Ignácio Torres Monteiro, a corporate, contracts and M&A specialist.

Highlighted for its ‘high technical capacity’, Elias, Matias Advogados assists Brazilian and international clients – including established corporates and emerging growth businesses – with M&A deals, day-to-day corporate issues and commercial matters. Leading the practice, Eduardo Felipe Matias acts for corporations, start-ups and entrepreneurs in an array of transactional mandates. Names to note at the associate level include Evelyn Tamy Macedo, Thaís Gomes da Silva and Marina Bozzola.

Rated for its ability to ‘identify and address the main issues and opportunities’ in the context of corporate transactions, Farroco Abreu Advogados is adept at assisting clients –both buyers and sellers– in M&A, corporate restructuring, investments and joint ventures. Bruno Guarnieri, who is widely recommended by clients, steers the team in a multitude of domestic and cross-border M&A and private equity deals involving the manufacturing, services, retail, technology and energy sectors, among others. Bruna Pelegrini, whose specialisms include mergers, spin-offs and restructurings, and Priscila Guidi, who is recommended for her ‘great command of the legal issues under discussion’, offer key support at the associate level.

Domestic and international clients regularly turn to the practice at Ferraz de Camargo e Matsunaga Advogados for assistance with M&A transactions, joint ventures, shareholder issues and matters before the CVM. The team possesses demonstrable strength in the banking, construction, real estate, technology and agribusiness sectors. Luciana Godoi Lorenti is well versed in foreign investments and on the incorporation of subsidiaries in Brazil; corporate restructuring is also among her areas of expertise. The ‘exceptional’ Rodrigo De Mello Motta is regularly engaged by buyers and sellers from the retail, real estate, technology and pharmaceutical sectors. Singled out for ‘his knowledge and ease in dealing with clients and counterparts’, Daniel Tardelli Pessoa is experienced in M&A, private equity and venture capital matters.

The corporate and M&A team at Fraga, Bekierman & Cristiano Advogados is a solid choice for companies across a wide range of sectors, including energy, mining, real estate, construction and technology, among others. The Rio de Janeiro-based team regularly assists domestic and international entities with corporate law and governance issues, as well as private equity investments, reorganisations and due diligence. These are all core areas of activity for Marcelo Cristiano, who manages the group with Lycia Moreira, a seasoned practitioner in tax law, commercial contracts and M&A; and Helena Marques de Souza Fernandes, a key contact for transactional and corporate matters involving the energy, mining and infrastructure segments.

Singled out for its experience in the life sciences and healthcare sectors, Kestener e Vieira Advogados provides legal support to domestic and international players in the negotiation of M&A transactions, spin-offs, and transfer of assets. On the non-transactional front, the department also advises on corporate reorganisations, shareholder agreements and commercial contracts. Fabio Alonso Vieira is the main point of contact in the team; he specialises in the sale and purchase of companies and assets in the healthcare and technology spaces.

Praised for its ‘high level of expertise, availability, [and] speed of advice’, LRI Advogados’ corporate practice draws on the firm’s dispute resolution, labour and tax capabilities to advise on transactions, investment contracts and joint ventures. With significant experience in the retail, manufacturing and technology sectors, the group is retained by Brazilian and international clients – most notably entities from Italy, Germany, China and the US – on both the buy and sell-sides of M&A deals. Department leader Nilson Lautenschlager Jr. handles an array of contractual issues, corporate law matters and transactions, which are also notable areas of practice for fellow co-head Victor Costa Toledo.

Based in Rio de Janeiro, corporate and capital markets boutique Moreira Menezes Martins Advogados is home to a ‘technically impeccable team’, which is mandated by securities brokers, financial institutions, private equity funds, companies and shareholders on a host of transactional matters. Typical instructions range from mid-market M&A, to divestments, corporate restructuring and contractual matters. With combined experience in M&A, capital markets and corporate restructuring, Carlos Martins Neto is recurrently retained by private equity firms and companies operating in the energy, education and healthcare sectors. He jointly leads the practice with Mauricio Moreira Menezes, who specialises in M&A and private equity matters, including cross-border deals. The ‘always very concise and reasoned’ associate Nicholas Furlan Di Biase is active in corporate transactions and contractual matters involving the infrastructure and real estate segments.

Novotny Advogados ‘has a legal team with great experience and knowledge’ of corporate law, M&A, private equity and venture capital. The group, which is particularly skilled in smaller and middle-market deals, attracts regular instructions from start-ups looking to expand as well as companies from across a wide range of sectors, such as retail, real estate and healthcare. Corporate law expert Paulo Eduardo Penna coordinates cross-border and domestic M&A transactions, private equity deals and regulatory matters, primarily acting on behalf of public and privately held businesses, entrepreneurs and investors. He co-leads the department with Gabriel Rios Corrêa, who focuses on the purchase and sale of companies and assets, joint ventures and corporate restructurings. Associate Bárbara Gentile De Senna Santos frequently assists with due diligence in the context of M&A, and advises clients on commercial contracts and administrative proceedings before the CVM.

VBD Advogados ‘provides an extremely high quality service’ to medium-sized companies in relation to strategic alliances, joint ventures, investment arrangements and M&A. The firm is also instructed by companies operating in a range of industries on a recurrent basis in day-to-day corporate matters, including commercial agreements, governance issues, compliance and, more recently, ESG. Founding partner Rafael Bicalho leads on private equity investments and M&A, while recently promoted partner Thalita De Marco Vani advises multinational corporations on the expansion of their activities in Brazil.