Brazil’s GVBG adds capital markets and M&A partner

GVBG Advogados has hired Apoena Joels as a partner to strengthen its capital markets and M&A practices.

Joels (pictured) has two decades of experience as a partner in some of the largest national and international law firms, working on corporate law and complex mergers and acquisitions both in Brazil and abroad, coupled with his experience in capital markets from different sectors of the economy, bringing sophistication and qualification to the M&A and capital markets teams, according to Terence Beringhs, founding partner of GVBG Advogados.

“This is a reinforcement of the firm’s position, and his vast professional experience in Brazil and abroad will accentuate and strengthen our practice in M&A and capital markets,” Beringhs said.

He said he expects the M&A market to heat up after the COVID-19 pandemic. “We believe in an increased appetite for acquisitions amid lower asset prices, as new opportunities will be generated, not least because one of the ways for companies to grow will be through acquisitions.”

Joels will join Terence Beringhs and Fernando Gentil Monteiro as the team responsible for corporate law, a trio that had previously worked together in another firm.

“They are building something important in which I believe and want to be part of. I consider a privilege to have the opportunity to build something with them,” Joels said.

“My practice consists of operations involving regulated sectors, publicly-held companies and of a cross border nature,” he said.  

A graduate of PUC-Rio and a specialist in constitutional and civil law, Joels estimates that the M&A sector will witness major restructurings in the months following the isolation, based on the cost reductions companies have been undertaking during the current period. In addition, many companies will look to dispose of stressed assets and modify their businesses. His joining GVBG also aims to serve this future market.

“GVBG has a concern for excellence, proximity to the client, more personalized service and an understanding of what is being delivered. A practice with technical quality, which will help create a very solid basis for growth that will support itself,” Joels said.