Dentons’ Sovereign Advisory group advises governments on matters related to public debt, debt restructuring, energy, infrastructure and mining projects, taxation, international trade, and foreign investment. Since our team focuses primarily on emerging markets, our value proposition goes beyond public debt to encompass related matters that are crucial to achieving sustainable economic development.  In addition, our Sovereign team supports sovereign wealth funds, state-owned companies, as well as international financial institutions on sovereign-related transactions.

Our core Sovereign Advisory team draws on our global coverage and talent across multiple practices and sectors – such as Corporate and M&A, Banking and Finance, Capital Markets, Energy, Public Law and Regulatory - to address the complex needs of our clients.  

How we can assist:

• Public debt: Debt issuance, debt instruments, state guarantees and debt restructuring, on both the creditor and the debtor sides. 
• Sovereign wealth funds: Creation and structuring of sovereign wealth funds, as well as with their investment and transactional activities.
• Investment frameworks: Development and implementation of laws and regulations governing foreign and local investment, such as the establishment of special economic zones or investment laws.
• Energy and infrastructure: Large scale energy and infrastructure projects including oil and gas, power, roads, railways, airports and ports. 
• Corporate transactions / privatizations: Major acquisitions, disposals, investments and privatizations relating to state owned companies and assets.
• Sanctions: International sanctions advice.
• Dispute resolution: Litigation and arbitration matters involving other state parties or private entities. 
• ESG: ESG frameworks and public policy, ESG-compliant infrastructure projects, as well as green/sustainable financing and bond issuances.

Recognition

Ecuador debt-for-nature swap awarded “ESG Finance Deal of the Year”

May 10, 2024

Ecuador’s historic debt-for-nature swap was awarded “ESG Finance Deal of the Year” at the Latin Lawyer Deal of the Year, 2023.  Dentons advised the Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Ecuador on the deal.

Ecuador debt-for-nature swap awarded “Financing Innovation of the Year” by Latin Finance

January 31, 2024

Ecuador’s historic debt-for-nature swap was awarded “Financing Innovation of the Year” at the Latin Finance 2023 Deals of the Year Awards. Dentons advised the Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Ecuador on this winning deal.

Ecuador debt-for-nature swap awarded “Natural Resources Finance Deal of the Year”

November 30, 2023

Ecuador’s historic debt-for-nature swap was awarded “Natural Resources Finance Deal of the Year” at the Bonds, Loans and ESG Capital Markets Latin America and the Caribbean Awards 2023.  

Insights

2025 Outlook Uganda

February 18, 2025

Uganda’s economic outlook for 2025 is promising, with growth projected to surpass 2024 levels. The IMF and World Bank forecast 7.5% and 6.2% increases in GDP in 2025; slightly higher than 2024’s figures. This growth is expected to be driven by agro-industrialization, tourism development, mineral development, including oil and gas, and science, technology, and innovation.

From Riches to Returns: Foreign Direct Investment in Africa

December 19, 2024

Africa: With abundant natural resources, excellent conditions for renewable energy generation, and a young population, Africa offers exceptional opportunities for growth and innovation.  However, its economic potential remains largely untapped, with infrastructure gaps, particularly in transport and energy, remaining a critical bottleneck.

The Name is Bonds. Thematic Bonds. What’s next for the sustainable debt market?

November 29, 2023

Thematic bonds – which include green, social, sustainability, and sustainability-linked bonds – are debt instruments which use the proceeds raised for ESG-related activities and investments.

News and Events

Recent Press Releases

New Dentons report: Infrastructure is the gateway to Africa’s global investment breakthrough

December 19, 2024

Despite its abundant natural resources, excellent conditions for renewable energy generation, and young population, Africa’s economic potential remains largely untapped, with infrastructure investment holding the key to unlocking both current opportunities and long-term prosperity. These are the key findings of From Riches to Returns, a new report released by Dentons. 

Dentons announces 2024 partner and counsel promotions in Europe and Central Asia

June 5, 2024

Global law firm Dentons has promoted 10 new partners, two managing counsel, six senior counsel and 26 counsel in Europe and Central Asia in its 2024 promotion round. The promotions represent 13 offices and all key practice groups operating in the region.

PDVSA and Repsol sign deal for development of La Ceiba and Tomoporro oil fields in Venezuela

April 26, 2024

Dentons Europe LLP has advised Petróleos de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA) on a transaction with Repsol Exploración, S.A. with regard to the expansion of Repsol’s oil production activities to the La Ceiba and Tomoporro oil fields. This transaction, valued at approximately $1.7 billion, seeks to bolster production in Venezuela's oil and gas sector, with the goal of aiding in the nation's economic recovery.

View all press releases for Sovereign Advisory