Asialaw Profiles
The Guide to the legal markets of the Asia-Pacific

“Salans is a very technically capable firm,” says one peer. Although it retains its tier two ranking this year, one competitor says: “Keep an eye out for this firm; it is going places over the next few years.” The elevation of Kamal Mamedazade to the ... [more]

“Salans is a very technically capable firm,” says one peer. Although it retains its tier two ranking this year, one competitor says: “Keep an eye out for this firm; it is going places over the next few years.” The elevation of Kamal Mamedazade to the global Salans partnership has strengthened the practice in Baku, with peers and clients identifying him as a “top lawyer”. The firm provides an outstanding full service offering to clients, with particular praise reserved for the firm’s banking work. Managing partner James Hogan is well respected in the market. “He has extensive experience in the region,” says one observer. “He is an approachable professional who provides advice of substance and value.” A highlight for the firm last year was its work for Turkish international bank YapiKredi Bank in a loan and security package to finance the construction of the Baku Hilton hotel complex. This transaction is valued at €86 million (US$121 million) and is yet to close. Partners Hogan and Mamedazade were both part of the team on this matter. Partner Vagif Ahmadov is also recommended.

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The Kazakhstan practice of international firm Salans is buttressed by its strong branches throughout Europe, including offices in Azerbaijan, the Czech Republic and Poland. The firm operates two offices in Kazakhstan, with its main office in Almaty supplemented ... [more]

The Kazakhstan practice of international firm Salans is buttressed by its strong branches throughout Europe, including offices in Azerbaijan, the Czech Republic and Poland. The firm operates two offices in Kazakhstan, with its main office in Almaty supplemented by a satellite presence in Atyrau. Its high profile clients include RBS Kazakhstan, Kazakhmys, Export Development Canada and ATFBank.

Banking and finance partner Abai Shaikenov acted for RBS Kazakhstan in the sale of its retail business to HSBC, which included personal loan and credit card portfolios, some branches of RBS Kazakhstan and ATMs. The total transaction value was €60 million. A firm team, led by Shaikenov and partner Kamal Mamedzade, is also advising Kagazy Recycling on its rescheduling and restructuring of debt.

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