Capital Markets: Derivatives
UK Guide 2025 : UK-wide
Band 1
Contact number
+1 212 903 9000Chambers Review
Linklaters has an extremely deep bench with unparalleled derivatives and structured products capabilities. Widely praised for its in-depth knowledge of changing regulations and developing legislation, they act for significant trade associations, most notably ISDA. Among the firm's many areas of expertise are equity derivatives and credit-linked notes in addition to synthetic risk transfers and market-leading repackagings. Clients include leading investment banks and fintech organisations.
Work Highlights
- Linklaters advised the International Capital Market Association on the drafting of a new annex, the Master Confirmation Annex, and templates to accompany the 2000 and 2011 versions of the Global Master Repurchase Agreement.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"Linklaters' level of service and quality of legal advice is unparalleled."
"Linklaters demonstrates a strong commitment to understanding the client's business model and develops tailored processes to ensure, as much as possible, a smooth and timely delivery of the work."
"Linklaters has a market leading team and each of the different partners brings a different skill set to the table."
"Linklaters can offer insight to new product offerings which is usually highly valuable."
"Linklaters is sensitive to our deadlines and always deliver on time."
"Linklaters' level of service and quality of legal advice is unparalleled."
"Linklaters demonstrates a strong commitment to understanding the client's business model and develops tailored processes to ensure, as much as possible, a smooth and timely delivery of the work."
"Linklaters has a market leading team and each of the different partners brings a different skill set to the table."
"Linklaters can offer insight to new product offerings which is usually highly valuable."
"Linklaters is sensitive to our deadlines and always deliver on time."
Notable Practitioners
Simon Firth is an outstanding derivatives practitioner with capabilities in all aspects of the market, from drafting documentation to counselling clients on the impact of regulatory developments. He is a thought leader whose advice on market developments is sought by trade organisations, most notably ISDA.
David Phillips is held in high esteem for his structured notes practice. He is frequently called upon to assist leading investment banks on transactions.
"David is very good at simplifying solutions to what are always complex issues."
"David is a go-to lawyer for many of our more complex transactions."
"David has a strong commercial understanding."
"David is technically efficient, sensible and very easy to deal with."
Deepak Sitlani is head of Linklaters' derivatives and structured products team. He centres his work on the structuring and documentation of OTC derivatives and is consistently praised for his command of regulations.
"Deepak is an exceptional legal practitioner with deep sector and technical knowledge."
"When we use him you know you are getting the best advice as he knows the market inside out."
"It is always a pleasure to work with Deepak."
Doug Shaw focuses his derivatives practice on international equity-based transactions. He is also recommended for his knowledge of emerging markets.
"Doug is very good at helping clients and getting to the heart of the issue."
"Doug combines strong technical expertise together with a very good knowledge of the market."
Michael Voisin is skilled in a range of derivatives functions, including the clearing and regulatory capital treatment of derivatives. He is also acclaimed for his ability to advise on the use of fintech in derivatives transactions.
"Michael is a strong lawyer with unparalleled experience."
"Michael is very client-service driven and provides sophisticated advice on very technical subjects, in a clear and concise manner."
"Michael is truly a legal industry leader and innovator in the legal derivatives and digital asset space."
Vinay Samani's in-depth understanding of structured finance makes him the counsel of choice for leading investment banks. His capabilities span a range of matters, from structured notes to repackagings.
"Vinay is very in touch with current market practice."
"Vinay is incredibly responsive and fantastic at being able to provide strong legal advice in real time."
"Vinay is personable and approachable."
Leanne Banfield is highlighted for her experience in structured note products and repackagings. She is recognised for her work in the developing market of ESG-compliant deals.
"Leanne is extremely helpful, always willing to bounce ideas around and very knowledgeable."
"Leanne is friendly, energetic and brings a lot of hard work to the table."
"Leanne is aways hands-on and willing to find a solution that works for all parties."
"Leanne is a tremendous lawyer. She is super impressive in her ability to manage and execute high volumes of large ticket transactions and to give clear, sounds advice on complex matters."
Edmund Leung is an associate at Linklaters who is a growing reputation in the structured product space.
"Edmund has strong knowledge across the entire area - he is commercial, personable and helpful at all times."