HSF expands to Luxembourg boosting Private Capital Services

Global law firm Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) has announced the opening of a new office in Luxembourg, further enhancing its private capital services and European presence. The new office, expected to launch in early 2025 (pending approval from the Luxembourg Bar), marks a significant step in the firm’s growth strategy.

The firm has also welcomed three distinguished partners to its team: Joanna Pecenik Vergès d’Espagne, a seasoned asset management lawyer with over 18 years of experience across Luxembourg, the US, and France; Marc Tkatcheff, an expert in private equity and M&A with deep knowledge of both local and international markets and Jean-Dominique Morelli, a tax law specialist with extensive experience in corporate tax planning and cross-border transactions.

This expansion aligns with Herbert Smith Freehills’ commitment to delivering top-tier legal services in key global markets. It follows the recent announcement of its planned merger with Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel in the United States.

Strategic Investment in Private Capital

The move underscores the firm’s strategic focus on private capital, a rapidly growing area of practice. Over the past two years, the firm has invested significantly in this area, promoting 26 partners and hiring 13 professionals worldwide.

Global CEO Justin D’Agostino commented: “Private capital is a cornerstone of our growth strategy. Welcoming Joanna, Marc, and Jean-Dominique to lead this critical expansion is an exciting milestone in our commitment to exceptional client service across key markets.”

Nina Bowyer, EMEA Managing Partner, added: “Our clients’ needs drive our growth. Luxembourg’s prominence as a financial hub makes this a pivotal step in expanding our European platform with highly skilled professionals.”