SIGNUM Law Firm

General business law

Work highlights

Advised an Italian investor with respect to its contemplated acquisition of a renewable energy asset in Kazakhstan. The firm conducted a full-fledged due diligence exercise and advised the client on regulatory compliance requirements. The deal was significant because the government of Kazakhstan is promoting renewable energy and is introducing relevant laws and regulations, which are not yet tested in practice. 

Advising an international commodities trader on its $2 billion secured financing to an investment management firm to finance part of its acquisition of 100% of the shares in a Kazakhstan-based joint stock company and to refinance some of the existing debt owed to the client under the existing loan facility.

Provided M&A support to JSC Medical Insurance Company Archimedes Kazakhstan in relation to the change of control within a company. The firm assisted the client with reviewing the respective transaction documents, as well as advising on all required governmental consents.

Client feedback

“The firm has strong expertise and practice in subsoil use, including in relation to stabilised subsoil use contracts and production sharing agreements. Among their strengths I would also highlight their dispute resolution and litigation practice in civil and administrative cases. The firm has represented us in many and various disputes and litigations, and always demonstrated diligence and proficiency in the subject matter.” – Dispute resolution, Tax

“Good, responsive, excellent English communications both verbal and written. Good understanding of Western practice.” – Corporate and M&A

“Excellent work both in analysis and execution. Dedicated and trustable professionals.” – Corporate and M&A

“Excellent professionals, with wide local and international experience, high standards, focused on results and performance.” – Corporate and M&A, Dispute resolution, Labour and employment

“Strengths: Tailor made approach from assisting lawyer, accuracy to details, client oriented approach.” – Corporate and M&A, Dispute resolution, Regulatory, Tax

“All work is done in the time agreed and follows high standards. The staff of SIGNUM are always available to provide the necessary explanations and feedback. Having three years of experience with SIGNUM, I can’t identify any weakness in their services.” – Corporate and M&A

“The SIGNUM team are responsive and helpful. SIGNUM is my go-to law firm in Kazakhstan: commercial and efficient while being legally correct. Sofiya Zhylkaidarova, Liza Zhumakhmetova and Gaukhar Kudaibergenova are all especially strong.” – Banking and finance

“Professional all round corporate law firm covering most aspects of corporate law but with very strong knowledge of oil and gas sector sub soil use law.” – Dispute resolution, Regulatory

“Professional and client oriented approach at all levels of management.” – Dispute resolution

“Abylkair Nakipov has many years of experience and is always available to assist. Even, to provide advice via phone. Works always done with a high level of competency.” “Nakipov is very diligent, professional and has extensive experience on the matters that we approached. Probably the management of the firm may improve a bit on the deliverables when working with the local authorities.” - Abylkhair Nakipov

“Senior lawyer, with great experience in the field of M&A.” “Very competent, responsive and commercial.” “Very knowledgeable and professional attitude.” - Liza Zhumakhmetova

“Out of the box thinking, top performer with vast experience in Kazakhstan legal landscape.” “Strong leader, excellent communication skills, and has a broad network.” - Sofiya Zhylkaidarova

“Talgat is very attentive to the details, diligent and has outstanding and extensive expertise in a range of law areas, with deadline and result-oriented mindset.” “Experienced and a client-oriented lawyer.” - Talgat Sariev