L.O. Baptista adds partner to Finance practice
L.O. Baptista Advogados has appointed Caio Coutinho de Melo as a new partner in its Finance Law practice, bringing the firm’s total partner count to 22. The move is part of a broader internationalization strategy, with a particular focus on strengthening the firm’s Middle East Desk — an initiative aimed at advising on transactions and investments between Brazil and the Middle East.
Caio Coutinho de Melo brings experience in structuring investment funds, wealth planning and cross-border transactions, having advised companies, family offices, startups and financial institutions. His practice covers transactions regulated by the Central Bank of Brazil (BCB) and the Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM), including the structuring of vehicles such as FIP, FIDC, FIM and FII. His professional background also includes direct exposure to the United Arab Emirates market, a key asset for the firm’s Middle East-focused work.
Within the firm, Caio will work alongside partners Cássia Monteiro and Vladimir Abreu on the Middle East Desk. The initiative targets Brazilian companies seeking to expand or structure investments in the region, as well as foreign investors looking to enter or grow their presence in the Brazilian market. The appointment also reinforces the firm’s capabilities in financial regulation, Open Finance and virtual assets, areas the firm identifies as increasingly relevant given the growing sophistication of cross-border capital flows.
