Ireland

The firm has a particularly strong practice in banking and finance, equity capital markets, M&A, project development and restructuring and insolvency, achieving tier 1 in all these areas. They are also very active in structured finance and securitization capital markets and investment funds practices as well.   

A notable highlight in the structured finance and securitisation market is the firms legal advice provided to BlackRock on the establishment of the clients suite of 17 iBond exchange traded funds (ETFs). The innovative nature of the instrument is highlighted by its ability to combine its exposure to a fixed maturity instrument and the accessibility and liquidity of an ETF.  

The firm continues to advise the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) on the National Broadband Plan (the "NBP"). The NBP is recorded as the largest infrastructure project in rural Ireland ever and expects to supply consistent reliable broadband across rural Ireland upon completion.  

In Capital Markets Debt, the firm worked alongside Ropes & Gray advising Smurfit Kappa on its debut US bond, a triple-tranche offering comprising USD 750 million of senior notes due 2030. The Notes were used as part of its financing for the combination with WestRock Company to create Smurfit Westrock plc and a portfolio of eligible green projects. 

“Easily accessible team commercial perspective and willingness to drive the deal” - Bank lending  

“Always available and very engaged in the discussion, with sound advice which stands up” - Banking and finance 

“The partners (Padraic Kinsella and Jason Hollis) were directly involved in all key aspects of the deal. William Fry always provides excellent commercial advice and top class legal technical guidance. The dedication and professionalism of the firm is exceptional.” - Banking and finance 

“The William Fry team, led by David Maughan, is very experienced, responsive and a pleasure to work with. They have unmatched expertise in the areas of Irish corporate governance and transactional law, and are our first call for advice in those areas. They are also valued partner on cross border transactions between the US and Ireland and we look forward to many more years of working together on high-profile matters.” - Capital markets debt 

“Highly skilled in terms of financial services regulatory expertise, nice team to work with quick responses.” - Financial Services Regulatory  

“Very diligent with an excellent knowledge of local requirements” - Financial Services regulatory 

“The William Fry team were very pragmatic, offering advice on risk management and regulatory impact. The team provided very clear guidance.” - Financial services regulatory 

“Practical and commercial advice. Reliable, and communicative. Can always trust that work will be done and done to a high standard. ESG knowledge.” - Investment funds