São Paulo — Paul Hastings LLP, a leading global law firm, announced today that experienced capital markets lawyer Thiago Spercel has joined the firm as a partner in São Paulo. He joined from leading Brazilian law firm Machado Meyer. Prior to Machado Meyer, Thiago Spercel was Counsel at the São Paulo office of another prominent international law firm. Mr. Spercel’s arrival adds further momentum to the strong performance and growth of the firm’s global Securities and Capital Markets practice, as well as its leading Latin Amer ica practice and high-performing team in São Paulo.

“As our clients seek new sources of capital in pursuit of growth, they require business-savvy legal advisors to guide them through the uncertainties of today’s global markets,” said Seth Zachary, Chairman of Paul Hastings. “With his deep experience in the Brazilian market as well as in handling cross-border transactions, Thiago is a strong addition to our São Paulo team.”

“Paul Hastings has built an outstanding reputation for itself in Brazil that reflects the firm’s global ambitions and strong upward momentum,” said Mr. Spercel. “I am excited to collaborate with my new colleagues and continue to develop my practice.”

Mr. Spercel focuses on capital markets and corporate finance transactions, including representing Brazilian issuers and underwriters in significant equity and debt offerings.

“Thiago is a prominent lawyer in São Paulo, who I have known for over 15 years and who is respected in the market for his ability to help clients navigate cross-border deals,” said Jonathan Kellner, Chair of Paul Hastings’ São Paulo office. “We are thrilled to have him join our team, and are fortunate to be welcoming this talented addition from Machado Meyer, one of the most distinguished law firms in Brazil.”

The Paul Hastings Latin America practice brings together leading lawyers who have advised on some of the largest, most complex, and “first-ever” transactions throughout the region, as well as playing critical roles in a number of major investigations. The team draws on its extensive legal and business experience, as well as deep local market knowledge, to help clients anticipate what’s next and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Paul Hastings is ranked among the Top 3 on Latinvex’s 2021 list of top international law firms operating in Latin America.

At Paul Hastings, our purpose is clear — to help our clients and people navigate new paths to growth. With a strong presence throughout Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the U.S., Paul Hastings is recognised as one of the world’s most innovative global law firms.