Top 10 Influential Structured Products Lawyers Dominating US Capital Markets in 2023

At the heart of many investment strategies, structured products provide flexible and innovative investment tools designed to meet specific risk-return goals. They are sought after for their ability to deliver a tailored exposure to traditional or alternative asset classes. The sheer complexity and variety of the mechanisms involved calls for top-tier legal expertise. Therefore, in the USA and across the globe, a unique league of exceptional lawyers has risen to prominence. Known for their structured products practices, they have gained recognition for their remarkable performance, distinct expertise and consistent contributions to the space.

Structured products are a sophisticated area, intertwining law with advanced finance principles. From the drafting phase, to issuance, to ensuring regulatory compliance, every step demands specialized knowledge. Given the dynamic and challenging nature of the capital markets, having the guidance of a dedicated lawyer is crucial. These practitioners help decode the intricate legal scenarios associated with these investment tools, assisting financial institutions, issuers, underwriters and investors, and ensuring correct execution in every aspect.

In this article, we profoundly explore the profiles of ten leading light lawyers, making significant strides in the national structured products space in the USA. With a diverse range of backgrounds, these lawyers showcase an impressive array of expertise and commitment to advancing their practice.

Michael A Mazzuchi

Honoring the roster of Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, Michael A Mazzuchi is respected for his structured notes practice, involving transactions over a diverse range of underlying assets. He is particularly commended for his regulatory competence, specifically regarding the application of the Volcker Rule. Peers describe him as a thoughtful and smart lawyer who commands significant respect in the industry. Further information about his work can be found on the firm’s website.

Anna Pinedo

A vital part of Mayer Brown LLP, Anna Pinedo is applauded for advising banks and investors on the issuance of notes with linked underlying assets. Her deep insights into securities law have proven invaluable in navigating through the requisite regulatory requirements. Commentators appreciate her comprehensive legal knowledge and her unmatched understanding of the structured products market.

Brian Foster

Operating at Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP, Brian Foster is praised for guiding banks through their structured notes offerings with notable acumen. Colleagues and clients speak of him as a sophisticated transaction attorney who delivers top-tier results. More is available about his accomplishments on the firm’s website.

William Massey

William Massey, at Sidley Austin LLP, is known for proficiently advising investment banks and financial groups on the issuance and structuring of a multitude of linked products. For a broader perspective on his practice, his firm’s website offers additional information.

Marla Matusic

At Mayer Brown LLP, Marla Matusic is highly sought after for aiding with structured notes offerings across the US and other jurisdictions. Her responsiveness, knowledge and flexibility have earned her accolades from clients.

Nick Allen

Bearing the flag for Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP, Nicholas Allen is a mainstay in the structured products circuit, assisting financial institutions with high-value structured notes programs. Further details about his services can be unearthed on their website.

Aryeh Zarchan

Regularly counselling leading financial institutions on structured notes offerings, Aryeh Zarchan of Sidley Austin LLP is known for his responsiveness, knowledge and commercial sense. His firm profile is available here.

Courtenay Myers Lima

Courtenay Myers Lima of Latham & Watkins LLP is known for her proficiency in advising financial institutions on the issuance of notes linked to assets such as indices and funds. More about her can be found on the firm’s website.

Bradley Berman

Bradley Berman of Mayer Brown LLP has earned recommendations for his expansive experience advising leading banks on their structured notes programs. Clients find his responsiveness and commercial drive notably impressive.

Christopher Schell

At Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP, Christopher Schell provides insightful advice on the issuance and distribution of notes linked to underlying assets. He is acknowledged as a clear thinking, problem-solving, and trusted advisor who showcases responsiveness and creativity. For more about his work, visit the firm’s website.

In conclusion, the noted figures on this list are rightfully recognized for their contributions to their industry. Their expertise in capital markets and structured products plays a critical role in the efficient functioning of the financial markets, thus making them leading lights in their respective domain.