Vladimir
Shuster

Partner

Vladimir’s practice primarily focuses on international corporate and finance transactions including cross-border mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, capital markets and other corporate and financial transactions across various industries, including oil and gas, mining, construction and hospitality.

Vladimir was previously partner with two other Am Law 100 firms based in Kazakhstan. Vladimir is a U.S. partner with more than eight years of on-the-ground experience representing* a diverse range of prominent international and domestic companies and financial institutions in some of the largest mergers and acquisitions in the region.

Experience representing

  • JSC KazMunaiGas in connection with the proposed delisting and buyback offer for the shares of its subsidiary traded on the LSE and KASE; and related bridge loan financing (deal value up to $ 3 billion)
  • Kazakhstan based real estate development group in connection with its joint venture to build a high end office tower and luxury shopping mall in Nur-Sultan
  • The shareholders of Rakhat JSC, Kazakhstan’s largest confectionary company, in connection with the sale of their majority stake to Lotte Confectionery Co, Ltd.
  • Kazakhstan’s largest retail bank in connection with a $200 million offering of 3-year Eurobonds listed on the Irish Stock Exchange and the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange
  • Kazakhstan focused private equity fund in connection with its investments in two retail chains
  • An international private equity fund in connection with its investment in a major producer of construction materials that holds subsoil use rights in Kazakhstan
  • A Kazakhstan investment group in connection with the sale of its interest in one of Kyrgyzstan's largest gold deposits to a major Chinese gold mining company
  • A Hong Kong investment group in the acquisition of a Kazakhstan oil and gas company that holds exploration rights in Western Kazakhstan
  • A large Kazakhstan group in connection with its bid for LPG assets located in Poland, Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Romania
  • A leading multi-national conglomerate in connection with a joint venture with Kazakhstan's national railway operator for the manufacture of locomotives in Kazakhstan
  • Creditors (the world's leading banks) in connection with the restructuring of Alliance Bank, BTA Bank and Temirbank
  • A Kazakhstan based real estate development group in connection with a luxury hotel and condominium project
  • Kazakhstan's premier luxury brands group in connection with the development and management of a high end U.S. department store in Almaty

Aigul
Abisheva

Partner

Aigul’s practice focuses on cross-border international corporate and financial transactions including capital markets, project finance, private mergers and acquisitions and other corporate transactions (including joint ventures). Aigul also has extensive commercial litigation experience.

Prior to joining Egen Gregory, Aigul was group head legal for a state owned project company engaged in the development and construction of a petrochemical complex in Western Kazakhstan, and an associate at an Am Law 100 firm.

Aigul obtained an LLM degree, with honors, from the Aix-Marseille III and an LLB degree, also with honors, from the Kazakh State Law University. She is fluent in Russian, Kazakh, English and French.

Experience representing

  • United Chemical Company in connection with its joint venture with LG Chem for the development and construction of the second phase of a petrochemical complex in Western Kazakhstan
  • Kazakhstan Petrochemical Industries Inc. on project finance and construction matters related to various phases of the development of a petrochemical complex in Western Kazakhstan
  • Leading European aerospace company in its joint venture with Kazakhstan Garysh Sapary, Kazakhstan’s national space company
  • General Electric in connection with corporate, labor and other operational matters in Kazakhstan
  • Note Programme and the issuance of Notes listed on the London Stock Exchange
  • JSC Development Bank of Kazakhstan in connection with the update of its Medium Term Note Programme and the issuance of Notes listed on the London Stock Exchange
  • Syndicate of international lenders in connection with facilities to two major oil refineries
  • KazMunaiGaz Finance Sub B.V. as the Issuer and JSC National Company KazMunaiGas, as the Guarantor in connection with the increase and update of the KazMunaiGaz Finance Sub B.V. Global Medium Term
  • Intergas Central Asia in connection with the restructuring of its assets
  • Areva SA, a leading French nuclear energy company, in connection with its corporate, labor and other operational matters in Kazakhstan
  • CNPC in connection with the proposed acquisition of an interest in a major oil and gas project in Kazakhstan
  • JSC Halyk Bank in connection with the issuance of Notes listed on the London Stock Exchange
  • Committee of senior creditors with regard to the restructuring of indebtedness of JSC BankTuranAlem Western financial institutions in the restructuring of JSC Alliance Bank
  • Capital Partners in connection with a Ritz Carlton hotel and condominium development in Almaty
  • Creditors’ committee concerning the restructuring of indebtedness of JSC Temir Bank
  • Kazakhstan electric power company in connection with EPC agreement (FIDIC based) for the modernization of an electric power plant
  • Several major international banks and securities firms on Kazakh law regarding securities transactions, including derivatives, swaps, repos and reverses, foreign exchange spots and forwards, options and futures, and domestic term deposits
  • European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (London) in connection with its shares in Kazakhstan bank, including increase of charter capital and placement of shares, trust management of shares, shareholders agreements, compliance with Regulator requirements, issues and placement of bonds and corporate matters
  • CNPC in connection with real estate acquisitions and construction projects in Kazakhstan
  • Kazakhstan company in the international bid procedures for EPC contract for new power plant, including preparation of bid and negotiation of EPC contract
  • Karachaganak Petroleum Operating B.V. in connection with a series of high profile disputes with the Government of Kazakhstan including administrative courts for individual top managers
  • JSC Kazkommertsbank in numerous commercial disputes related to the bank’s lending activity

Klara
Nurgaziyeva

Partner

Klara Nurgaziyeva has been advising clients in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), joint ventures, cross-border investments, and commercial transactions mostly in energy, telecommunication, and infrastructure sectors in Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries for more than 20 years.

She also assists clients on corporate governance and compliance matters and advises on capital market transactions and related regulatory matters. Klara is experienced in representing clients in domestic litigation and works regularly with the lawyers in relevant jurisdictions on assisting clients in foreign litigation or international arbitration.

Klara is regularly highly ranked by Chambers, Legal500, IFLR1000 and WWL Energy. She is fluent in English and Russian.

Experience Representing*

  • A group of major foreign investors – with respect to changes to Kazakhstan subsoil use law to improve investment climate
  • A major investor from PRC – on several high-profile M&A projects in Kazakhstan, regular assistance with regard to various regulatory and corporate matters
  • An Indian oil & gas producing company – on its major investment project agreements with KazMunayGas for development of a block in Kazakhstan's Caspian offshore zone
  • A European energy company – with respect to potential JV project in Kazakhstan oil & gas sector
  • A major steel manufacturing company – on various corporate and transactional matters
  • A European multinational aerospace corporation – in connection with JVs with Kazakhstan national companies
  • A Swedish multinational telecommunications company – in connection with various M&A projects in Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries
  • A major Russian public energy company – on various aspects of its operation in Kazakhstan
  • A major Kazakhstan mobile operator – with respect to its $ 525 million initial public offering via a listing of GDRs on the London Stock Exchange and of shares on the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange
  • An international financial institution – in connection with various debt and equity financing projects in Kazakhstan
  • Several major Russian investment banks – on various debt financing projects in Kazakhstan
  • A Dutch banking and financial services corporation – with respect to export financing
  • An Indian-based investor – on its sale of a gold exploration and production asset in Kazakhstan at Kazakhstan stock exchange
  • * experience prior to joining the firm

Oksana
Kolmogorova

Of Counsel

Oksana is of Counsel to Egen Gregory. She is one of Kazakhstan’s leading civil litigators. Oksana zealously represents domestic and multinational companies, and individuals in a wide range of civil disputes including corporate, commercial, real property, subsoil use, wills and estates. Oksana has represented clients in all instances of the Kazakhstan courts including before the Supreme Court of Kazakhstan. Oksana has extensive experience representing* clients before courts and regulatory bodies in tax, customs, insolvency, real property and other regulatory disputes. She is regularly called upon to provide legal opinions on civil law and procedure, customs, tax and other issues in connection with matters being considered before local and international courts. Oksana graduated with highest honors from Adilet Higher Law School and earned a degree in thermophysics from Tomsk Polytechnic University. She is admitted to practice law in the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Experience representing

  • A major foreign owned oil producer in connection with various disputes related to its sub-soil use activities including dispute with its joint venture partner, damages related to non-compliance with its work program, and the transportation and processing of oil
  • An international freight and logistics services to the off shore oil & gas industry in connection with various disputes with the tax authorities, issues of application of international conventions on evasion of double taxation, labor disputes, including issues related to the hiring and payment of foreign labor
  • A private Kazakhstan enterntainment company and non-profit foundation in connection with various disputes related to intellectual property and a corporate dispute between participants
  • Ongoing representation of A Kazakhstan real estate development and consturction company in connection with various disputes related to tax; land issues; contract disputes; debtor / creditor; loan agreements, guarantees and pledges; rental agreements with retailers; and bankruptcy
  • International healthcare provider in connection with an expert witness opinion on Kazakhstan law for proceedings in the United States
  • Kazakhstan medical clinic in connections with a medical malpractice suit
  • Passenger Transportation Association in Almaty in connection with the development of subsidy programs of passenger transportation on socially significant routes, and drafting of related transportation agreements. Participated in government commission regulating such matters

Zhamilya
Bilisbekova

Senior Associate

Zhamilya focuses her practice on cross-border investments and commercial transactions in Kazakhstan. She has participated in different business transactions, including multiple merger and acquisition deals such as acquisition of equity interest in an oil exploration and production company, venture capital deals, project financing, anti-monopoly clearance and other major projects.

Prior to joining Egen Gregory, Zhamilya was an associate in a large international law firm’s corporate, finance and investment practice. Zhamilya graduated from KIMEP University (Kazakhstan) in 2016 and earned her LL.M. in University of California, Berkeley, School of Law (USA) in 2017.

Zhamilya speaks Russian and English.

Experience representing*

  • Acting for an international venture capital firm in relation to investment into fast-growing technology company in AIFC, including drafting of financial instrument
  • Acting for an international bank in the structuring of an export transaction, including in relation to currency-control regulation
  • Acting for international companies in connection with trademark protection and licensing
  • Acting for an international company in connection with due diligence and successful acquisition of oil producing assets
  • Acting for a Kazakhstan bank in connection with preparation and analysis of documentation with respect to bonds issuance
  • Acting for multiple international companies and organisations in connection with due diligence and drafting transaction documents in relation to the operation of Kazakhstan energy-producing power plants using renewable energy sources, as well as anti-monopoly clearance
  • Share consolidation deals
  • Acting for a large international bank in connection with financing of construction and operation of an energy-producing power plant using renewable energy sources
  • Acting for an international company in structuring of a transaction and drafting documents for the management and operation of certain restructured agricultural and other assets of a major agricultural company in Kazakhstan
  • Acting for international company for the purposes of antimonopoly filing
  • Drafting of transaction documents, including security and corporate documents
  • Consulting in relation to currency control regulation
  • Acting for a local company on a potential downsizing and drafting of documents, including settlement and termination agreements
  • Due diligence of variety Kazakhstan companies for merger and acquisition deals
  • Acting for a large international organization in relation to project financing deals
  • Acting for an international catering company on various corporate and labour matters
  • * experience prior to joining the firm

Marat
Mukhamediyev

Counsel

Marat concentrates his practice primarily on mergers and acquisitions, capital market and finance transactions. Marat has been deeply involved in numerous projects including major merger and acquisition transaction in telecommunication industry, issuance of securities and a range of financing transactions. Marat also has experience in commercial litigation.

Prior to joining Egen Gregory, Marat was a senior associate with an international law firm’s corporate and business transaction practice in Kazakhstan. Previously, Marat also had been working as a senior lawyer with a Big Four firm and a legal counsel with the Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Control and Supervision of the Financial Market and Financial Organizations.

Marat graduated from Kazakh Humanitarian Law University, Kazakhstan, in 2003 and earned his LL.M. in European business law from Lund University, Sweden, in 2011.

Marat speaks Russian and English.

Experience representing*

  • A private Chinese company in connection with its $ 350 million acquisition of 100% of shares in a Kazakhstan subsoil user that develops several exploration and production hydrocarbon fields in West Kazakhstan.
  • Large US energy company in connection with foundation of a joint venture with a Kazakhstan state owned partner, as well as in a landmark privatization transaction involving an acquisition of 50% shares in Kazakhstan joint venture from Kazakhstan national railway company.
  • Kazakhstan’s largest retail bank in connection with a $ 200 million Eurobonds offering on the Irish Stock Exchange and Kazakhstan Stock Exchange.
  • An international bank in connection with an approx. $ 3 billion share acquisition and backstop facilities with Kazakhstan guarantors
  • Major Kazakhstan cellular carrier in connection with $ 300 million debt financing by a syndicate of foreign and Kazakhstan banks.
  • Comprehensive assistance of a large Kazakhstan company in connection with a proposed IPO at Hong Kong stock exchange (suspended after filing A1 due to commercial reasons).
  • An Indian-based investor on its sale of a gold exploration and production asset in Kazakhstan through Kazakhstan stock exchange.
  • A Chinese private investor with regard to its participation in a tungsten mining project in Kazakhstan.
  • Major Scandinavian cellular carrier in connection with the acquisitions of assets and equity in Kazakhstan cellular carrier, as well as subsequent disposal of those assets and equity to Kazakhstan state owned telecommunication company.
  • A private Kazakhstan bank in connection with its planned issuance of $-denominated unsecured notes (suspended at the final stage due to market conditions).
  • EBRD in connection with an up to $ 140 million senior secured multicurrency loan to a large private Kazakhstan electric utility, and its subsidiaries.
  • An international bank in connection with a EUR 7 million export financing.
  • A large private Chinese company in connection with successful resolution of a multi-jurisdictional dispute.
  • A Russian pharmaceutical company in connection with a dispute on a supply of pharmaceutical products to its Kazakhstan counterparty.
  • * experience prior to joining the firm

Diana
Dostanova

Senior Associate

Diana is an energy and natural resources, construction, and land use law specialist.

She has over 12 years of experience in documenting and negotiating construction, infrastructure and real estate projects, and advising oil and gas companies on Kazakhstan regulatory matters. She also participated in the drafting and lobbying of amendments to Kazakhstan laws related to investments, gas transportation, trunk pipelines and natural monopoly.

Experience representing

  • Kazakhstan-China Gas Pipeline Project in connection with legal aspects and regulations of project development, including construction and design works tender procedures, feasibility study, basic and detailed design documentation, construction and project management contracts, land use rights, production safety, environmental requirements and other related regulations (in-house experience)
  • Kazakhstan-China Gas Pipeline Project in connection with negotiation and drafting of EPC contracts (FIDIC Silver Book), contracts on design development, Project management consulting (PMC), third party inspection (TPI), supply of construction equipment as well as pipeline operation and maintenance agreements. Advised on claim settlement issues with contractors under construction and operation contracts, as well as on obtainment of state approvals and permissions during construction and operation period
  • Kazakhstan-China Gas Pipeline Project in connection with arranging $ 12,7 billion project financing from syndicate of International lenders (in-house experience)
  • Kazakhstan-China Gas Pipeline Project in connection with negotiation and drafting of gas transit agreement (pre-ship or pay agreements) with foreign shipper and gas transportation agreements with local shippers
  • Foreign oil & gas corporation in connection with the implementation of multinational oil & gas project on the Kazakhstan sector of Caspian sea (offshore oil and gas field) within the framework of an intergovernmental agreement
  • Foreign oil & gas corporation in connection with its production sharing agreement (offshore oil and gas field)
  • Kazakhstan subsoil use company in connection with its restructuring options, including listing on AIFC and purchase by foreign investor procedures
  • Global producer of fertilizers and industrial products in connection with compliance of chemical production activities with the requirements of the Kazakhstan law
  • Chinese construction holding in connection with construction of wolfram refinery, including legal structuring of procurement, design and construction work contracts, as well as EPC contracts structuring
  • Kazakh investment company with respect to proposing and drafting amendments to Entrepreneur code on improvement of investment environment (amendments to priority investment projects list and investment level regulations)

Phillip
Rosenblatt

Special Counsel

Phillip Rosenblatt is an American trained international lawyer specializing in finance and major projects. Phillip was a Partner of the Cairo office of Baker McKenzie and a member of Baker McKenzie´s Project Finance Group, where he was responsible for expanding the banking and finance practice and helped advise clients on project finance, syndicated lending and securitization projects.
Prior to Cairo, Phillip was based in Baker McKenzie´s Chicago headquarters where he focused on limited recourse financing of telecommunications and power projects in the US and Latin America. While with Baker McKenzie, Phillip spent three years at Baker McKenzie´s Almaty, Kazakhstan office, starting from its inception, where he advised clients on their large-scale energy, natural resources, industrial and banking projects in Central Asia. Before joining Baker McKenzie, Phillip was associated with Clifford Chance, where he focused on investment projects in the former Soviet Union.
Phillip has been involved in project, finance, joint venture and privatization work and has experience in structuring, documenting and negotiating international transactions, including power, telecommunication, and natural resource projects.

Experience representing

  • Advising a real estate developer on the acquisition of a prime real estate development in Istanbul, Turkey, with a value in excess of EUR 100 million, involving, in the end, a share transaction with multiple jurisdictions.
  • Representing a regional investor in the turnkey construction of a large capacity $ 100 million plus cement plant in Egypt, using FIDIC agreements, including a complex supply chain and nominated subcontractors, performance bonds, and the related financing agreements.
  • Advising Egyptian company on a $ 200 million plus fertilizer plant construction and development project on FIDIC Turnkey basis with letters of credit and performance bonds.
  • Privatization and redevelopment of the Karaganda Metallurgical Combine, with a capacity of six million (6,000,000) ton of steel a year and close to thirty thousand (30,000) employees, by a major steel producer.
  • Restructuring of a project company in connection with the completion of construction of its 2,000 metric ton per day capacity soybean processing plant that was financed by a combination US government backed and commercial non-recourse financing.
  • Acting for a leading international chemical and oil logistics and chemical distribution in connection with its joint venture with the concessionaire of a major Egyptian BOT port on the establishment of chemical and oil storage venture.
  • Privatization of the electrical and heat energy generating, transmission and distribution systems for Kazakhstan’s largest city (Almaty) and the surrounding region (installed capacity 1352 MW electric energy and 3919 Gcal/hour of heat energy) by a European international utility company.
  • Privatization of four (4) power plants and the related electricity distribution network and a concession over two (2) hydroelectric power plants in Eastern Kazakhstan by an American international power plant operator.
  • Project financing of a gas-fired single cycle peaking plant in Chicago, IL.
  • Establishment of a joint venture in connection with a proposed BOT solid waste collection and processing venture for Cairo.
  • Proposed project financing of the upstream portion of an LNG plant in Egypt on behalf of a European oil company.
  • Project financing of an LNG plant in Egypt on behalf of a consortium of oil companies in conjunction with the Egyptian General Petroleum Company.
  • Sale to a multinational oil company of a significant minority stake in a company that holds the BOT concession for gas distribution in the largest cities and industrial zones in Egypt. Project included negotiating shareholder and various ancillary agreements.
  • Advising the lender in connection with a $ 445 million financing of the acquisition, installation and operation of a nation-wide wireless local loop telecommunications system in Mexico on a limited recourse basis.
  • Privatization of fifteen (15) coal mines, one (1) enrichment plant and related enterprises comprising the bulk of the Karaganda Coal Basin, and the take-over of close to sixty thousand (60,000) employees (Kazakhstan).
  • Creation of joint venture gold and silver mining projects for the Varvarinskoe, Gagarinskoe, Pavlovskoe Serebro, Samarskoe, Kenzhem, Duman-Schuak, Zhaisan, Shatyrgul and Agadir mines, by a client who then went public on the Toronto Stock Exchange (Kazakhstan).

Karina
Ilyussizova

Counsel

Karina Ilyussizova represents domestic and international clients on corporate and finance transactions. She has been advising on acquisition (on seller or buyer’s side) and financing (on lender or borrower’s side) of various infrastructure projects. Her primary interest and experience are in developing and deploying renewable energy (solar, wind and hydro) business in Kazakhstan and the whole Central Asia region.

Due to her background as an in-house counsel, Karina understands internal legal matters and operation of in-house legal teams. Prior to joining Egen Gregory, Karina was a senior associate with an international law firm, an in-house counsel of a private equity fund and a legal manager for one of the Big4. Karina is fluent in English and Russian.

Experience representing*

  • International finance institutions in connection with loans for modernization of Almaty power plant (switching from coal to natural gas)
  • International finance institution on financing of construction and operation of solar power plant project in Kazakhstan.
  • International finance institution in connection with financing for the modernization of hydro power plant in Kazakhstan
  • A large European investor on a successful acquisition of greenfield renewables energy project (wind power) in Kazakhstan
  • Russian company on an investment into construction and operation of a wind power plant
  • A Chinese investor on an acquisition and sale of several wind power plants in Kazakhstan
  • An international finance institution in connection with a secured financing of a mining company, including legal support in increasing the amount of loan
  • A large international bank in connection with financing of a national gas company
  • A Kazakhstan company in connection with obtainment of financing for construction, exploration and development of mining project in Kazakhstan
  • A large European supplier of agricultural machinery, in relation to provision of security for financing of the group companies
  • * experience prior to joining the firm

Private Equity



Egen Gregory represents private equity firms in connection with all aspects of their businesses, including structuring and organizing fund sponsors and their investment funds; negotiating their investments in funds and funds of funds; executing acquisitions and exit transactions. Our private equity practice is global. We have organized offshore private equity funds involving a number of structures and jurisdictions.

Our dedication to the private equity industry and the relevant areas of law constantly builds and improves our know-how and expertise, resulting in efficiency at the service of our clients. Clients appreciate our high partner attention and small, dedicated and experienced teams.

Featured experience advising

  • A subsidiary of a government owned fund of funds established in 2007 to promote the sustainable development of the Kazakhstan economy, in connection with its investment in a vertically-integrated power-generating holding in Kazakhstan including all aspect of power supply generation, transportation and sales
  • A subsidiary a government owned fund of funds established in 2007 to promote the sustainable development of the Kazakhstan economy, in connection with the establishment of a $ 100 million private equity fund based in the Netherlands
  • A subsidiary of the national holding company in connection with its $ 10 million investment in Quest Ventures Asia Fund II, its first Asian investment on an LP basis, including the establishment of the Kazakhstan Digital Accelerator
  • A subsidiary of the national holding company in connection with its $ 10 million investment in 500 Startups V Global Fund, with further backing of Kazakhstan startup projects through a separate thematic fund focused on Kazakhstan
  • A major U.S. venture capital firm in connection with an investment in a Central Asian start up utilizing a KISS (keep it simple security) agreement under to the rules and regulations of Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC)

Oil & Gas



Egen Gregory represents a wide range of clients in the oil and gas sector. We handle sophisticated exploration and production projects, joint ventures, mergers, acquisitions and divestures, the issuance of domestic and international debt instruments, corporate restructurings, project and lease financings, and other related transactions in upstream, downstream and midstream segments.

We advise clients on exploration and production activities, refining and marketing of crude oil and petroleum products, natural gas production, pipelines and other related infrastructure, projects, as well as on the myriad structural and contractual relationships used in the oil, gas and petrochemical industry.

Featured experience advising

  • Group of major foreign investors – with respect to changes to Kazakhstan subsoil use law to improve investment climate
  • An Indian oil & gas company – on its major investment project agreements with KazMunayGas for development of a block in Kazakhstan's Caspian offshore zone
  • A European energy company – with respect to potential JV project in oil & gas sector in Kazakhstan
  • A gas transportation company in connection with main assets (strategic assets) ownership restructuring including alienation of strategic assets, increase of charter capital and trust management of assets
  • A subsidiary of Kazakhstan’s nations oil company, in connection with a dispute, related to the Karachaganak project, one of the largest projects on the production of hydrocarbons in Kazakhstan, between the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of oil and gas of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the shareholders in the Karachaganak project

Mergers & Acquisitions



Egen Gregory lawyers excel in transactions. We provide a complete range of services to international and domestic companies and financial institutions in all types of transactions. These include strategic joint ventures, cross-border transactions, project development and finance and private equity transactions in the natural resource, infrastructure, alternative energy and other sectors.

We represent private equity funds and individual investors in connection with their portfolio investments, from serving as lead counsel on complex mergers and acquisitions to counseling individual investors on minority investments.

Featured experience advising

  • The National oil and gas company in connection with the proposed delisting and buyback offer for the shares of its subsidiary traded on the LSE and KASE; and related bridge loan financing (deal value up to $ 3 billion)
  • United Chemical Company in connection with its joint venture with LG Chem for the development and construction of a landmark petrochemical complex in Western Kazakhstan
  • The shareholders of Rakhat JSC, Kazakhstan’s largest confectionary company, in connection with the sale of their majority stake to Lotte Confectionery Co., Ltd.
  • GE Transportation in connection with its investments in a locomotive assembling plant in Astana, Kazakhstan, in partnership with JSC Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, Kazakhstan’s national railway company, and a breakthrough 15-year locomotive
  • A large Kazakh group in connection with its bid for LPG assets located in Poland, Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Romania
  • An international private equity fund in connection with its investments in two Kazakhstan retail chains

Capital Markets



Egen Gregory’s equity and debt capital markets practice is at the forefront of advising clients on a wide spectrum of financial transactions across various industries but with particular focus on energy, mining and metals, and financial institutions.

With a seasoned team of legal experts, we offer comprehensive assistance to domestic and international issuers and sponsors in navigating the complexities of equity offerings, debt issuances, and related regulatory compliance. Our deep understanding of the local market and regulated industries, coupled with a global perspective, enables us to providing innovative legal guidance, meticulous due diligence, and diligent execution, positioning our clients to successfully complete their capital markets transactions.

Featured experience advising



An issuer holding Kazakhstan mining assets in connection with a proposed IPO on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange; and local listing on the International Astana Exchange.

An issuer holding Kazakhstan mining assets (exploration – Nickel) in connection with a proposed IPO on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange; and local listing on the International Astana Exchange. Work completed: comprehensive issuer side due diligence and issuance of final due diligence report; final legal opinion; A1 filing and response to follow-up Exchange inquiries; relevant sections of the prospectus including follow-up to A1 (suspended due to commercial considerations)

An issuer holding Kazakhstan mining assets (production – Gold) in connection with a proposed IPO on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange; and local listing on the International Astana Exchange. Work completed: comprehensive issuer side due diligence and issuance of due diligence report; draft legal opinion; pre-A1 filing; relevant sections of the prospectus including follow-up to A1 (suspended due to commercial considerations)

Banking & Finance



We represent lenders and borrowers in finance transactions of all sizes and complexities. We work with domestic and international banks, commercial finance companies and businesses to help them structure, negotiate and document loans as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.

Our expertise includes secured and unsecured loan facilities, single lender and syndicated credit facilities, asset-based lending agreements, construction loans and intercreditor and subordination agreements. We also advise on mergers and acquisitions, as well as securities offerings and compliance with securities regulations. Additionally, we may provide guidance on corporate governance matters, including board composition, executive compensation, and shareholder rights.

Featured experience advising

  • A major shareholder in the Tengizchevroil, megafield project in Kazakhstan, on the $ 4,4 billion Second Stage expansion project financing. The Western participants co-lent, on a senior pari-passu basis, with the commercial lending syndicate that is providing the Kazakh national oil company's 20 percent share of the financing, with substantial debt capital markets aspects.
  • Ekibastuz GRES-2 Power Station on a $ 700 million secured financing for the construction of its Unit 3, to be provided by a consortium comprising Bank for Development and Foreign Economic Affairs ("Vnesheconombank") and Eurasian Development Bank.
  • An international development institution in connection with the $ 80 million loan to a state-owned electricity grid operating company to construct the strategic North-South electricity line.
  • European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (London) in connection with its shares in Kazakhstan bank, including increase of charter capital and placement of shares, trust management of shares, shareholders agreements, compliance with Regulator requirements, issues and placement of bonds and corporate matters
  • Foreign lenders in relation to a $ 300 million facility to a Kazakhstan oil refinery guaranteed by a National Company
  • Foreign export-import bank in connection with the U.S $ 1,130,408,642 loan to Kazakhstan refinery

Construction & Infrastructure



The Egen Gregory team has extensive experience in construction and infrastructure law, providing legal services to clients involved in complex construction projects, including commercial and residential developments, public works projects, and infrastructure improvements.

We have a deep understanding of the relevant laws, regulations, and standards, and work closely with clients to find practical solutions. With a focus on communication and negotiation skills, we effectively advocate for our clients' interests and have a proven track record of success in resolving disputes and ensuring that projects are completed on time and on budget. The combination of legal knowledge and practical experience in the industry makes us a top choice for clients in need of construction and infrastructure legal services.

Featured experience advising

  • A Kazakhstan petrochemical company in connection with its negotiations with a major American engineering and construction firm. Advised on the EPC&M contracts for the construction of a petrochemical plant in Western Kazakhstan
  • A Kazakhstan energy company in connection with its negotiations of an EPC&M contract with Siemens for the construction of an electric power plant
  • A Kazakhstan construction company in its negotiations and execution of PC contract for part high profile petrochemical complex in Russian Federation
  • A foreign contractor in connection with consortium agreement with Kazakhstan company for engineering and construction of industrial project in Kazakhstan
  • Provided full legal support to petrochemical project company in relation to preparation and negotiation of EPC contract with consortium of international contractors for petrochemical complex in Western Kazakhstan
  • Several oil & gas producing companies – regarding engineering and construction of production and transportation facilities

Hospitality & Retail



Egen Gregory provides legal services to clients in the hospitality and retail sectors, offering expertise in a range of legal issues that affect businesses in these industries. We advise clients on licensing and regulatory compliance, contracts, labor and employment law, consumer protection, real estate, and intellectual property. Specifically, we assist clients to negotiate management and licensing contracts, in obtaining the necessary licenses and permits to operate their businesses, negotiate and draft contracts with vendors, suppliers, and employees, and advise on compliance with labor and employment laws.

The Egen Gregory team also advise on real estate matters, such as leasing agreements and purchase agreements for retail and hospitality properties, and help protect clients' intellectual property, such as trademarks. Additionally, we may represent clients in disputes, such as those with customers, vendors, or competitors.

Featured experience advising

  • A Kazakhstan based real estate development group in connection with a luxury hotel and shopping project
  • A major Kazakhstan hotel and spa operator in connection with a hotel and SPA management agreement with a subsidiary of a spa operator based in Thailand
  • A Kazakhstan investment group in connection with a proposed luxury hotel (Park Hyatt) in Almaty, Kazakhstan
  • Kazakhstan’s largest luxury-brands group in the negotiation of contracts with Saks Fifth Avenue Co., a leading US luxury and specialty goods retailer, relating to the development and management of a high-end department store in Almaty
  • A major Kazakhstan real estate developer in connection with an elite hotel and apartment project with the Marriott group of companies
  • A large Kazakhstan group in connection with the design and construction agreements and documentation (FIDIC based) for a luxury residential project near Almaty, Kazakhstan

Media



Egen Gregory’s media law practice is highly respected and at the forefront of advising media companies on regulatory, digital media, copyright, licensing, and trademark issues.

We represent the industry’s leading international broadcasters in their Kazakhstan operations, including issues regarding content distribution, be it via cable, satellite or terrestrial broadcasting.

Featured experience advising

  • Two American media conglomerates in connection with their broadcast activity in Kazakhstan including monitoring local laws impacting the broadcast of their channels in Kazakhstan
  • A Kazakhstan media company in connection with a cooperation and media support agreement with the Astana International Financial Center and a privately held financial, software, data, and media company headquartered in New York
  • A international motion picture production company in connection with the production of the “Marco Polo” drama series in Kazakhstan
  • An international media group in connections with corporate, labor and other operational matters in Kazakhstan

Dispute Resolution



Egen Gregory has a strong litigation practice, representing clients in a wide range of civil and commercial disputes. Our litigators have extensive experience in all aspects of litigation, including pre-trial discovery, motion practice, trial, and appeal. We have also provided Kazakhstan expert opinions and testimony in arbitration tribunals and before courts in the U.S. and U.K.

We handle cases in a variety of areas, such as contract disputes, employment law, real estate and construction, intellectual property, and commercial law. We work closely with clients to assess legal claims and defenses, develop strategies, and provide effective representation in negotiations, mediations, and trials. The combination of common law and civil law knowledge and practical experience in the courtroom makes us a top choice for representation in complex litigation matters.

Featured experience advising

  • A consortium of oil & gas majors developing Kazakhstan’s largest oil & gas condensate field in connection with a series of high profile tax and other disputes (totaling over $ 1,6 billion)
  • A Chinese-owned oil producer over $ 450 million in unlawfully assessed crude oil export customs duties
  • A major international tobacco company in connection with a major litigation over implementation of Western standard employment policies
  • A former shareholder in connection with the $ 1,1 billion; UK litigation involving present and former shareholders of a mid-sized Kazakhstan bank
  • Operator of one of the largest PSA in Kazakhstan in connection with a $ 600 million main works contract arbitration in Stockholm
  • Credit Suisse in connection with the restructuring of its claims against JSC Bank Turan Alem
  • SC Kazkommertsbank in numerous commercial disputes related to the bank’s lending activity
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International outlook / Local insight

Corporate law boutique

Egen Gregory is a leading corporate law firm focused on cross-border and emerging market investments

We serve the commercial and transactional legal needs of clients ranging from government and public companies, Western multinationals, investment funds, entrepreneurs and private companies across a broad range of industries.

Our depth of experience, combined with the personal attention we commit to our client’s legal needs, allows us to resolve their most complex legal challenges regardless of location or size.

International Outlook

Egen Gregory is a highly regarded group of lawyers with extensive experience handling cross-border and emerging market transactions.

With a focus on developing markets, we have guided clients through the challenging business and legal climates around the world including Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Russia, the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region.

Our lawyers are experienced in managing local counsel, advising on local law issues, drafting the necessary transaction documents and conducting the attendant negotiations, in each case with the goal of effecting transactions consistent with the client’s expectations.

Local Insight

Egen Gregory lawyers are experienced in anticipating and managing the substantial complexities of divergent legal systems, bureaucratic regimes, cultural differences, political volatility and other risks which make cross-border transactions challenging.

Value

Our clients benefit from the same depth of expertise and professional experience as with a larger law firm, but the absence of artificially imposed billing targets means that our clients only pay for the value we add. As seasoned professionals, we know how long a project is going to take and how to price it accordingly.

We are Egen Gregory

The Egen Gregory team are leading lawyers in the market

Our team trained in Am Law 100 law firms and bring the same level of professionalism to their practice at Egen Gregory. Members of our team are multilingual and have practiced globally, enhancing our ability to serve clients in today’s increasingly international environment. Clients come to us because they appreciate our philosophy, the high partner attention and small, dedicated and experienced teams. Understanding our clients’ needs and commercial rationale in all situations is a fundamental part of our approach.

Vladimir
Shuster

Partner

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Aigul
Abisheva

Partner

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Klara
Nurgaziyeva

Partner

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Oksana
Kolmogorova

Of Counsel

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Marat
Mukhamediyev

Counsel

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Karina
Ilyussizova

Counsel

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Zhamilya
Bilisbekova

Senior Associate

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Diana
Dostanova

Senior Associate

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Phillip
Rosenblatt

Special Counsel

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We have built and continue to foster reciprocal relationships with local firms throughout the CIS, Central Asia and beyond

Our knowledge and legal experience, in various practices and industries, coupled with our ability to connect with and develop relationships, enable us to provide the best local, regional, national, and global legal advice for our clients.

Egen Gregory delivers high quality legal services to sophisticated clientele in two broad practice areas: corporate and commercial law and litigation

The firm has significant capabilities across practice areas such as mergers & acquisitions, private equity & venture capital, commercial contracts, regulatory advice and technology transactions. Our significant transactional experience advising clients from diverse industries means we have a deep understanding of our clients’ business objectives enabling us to provide tailored, timely and cost-effective advice.

Egen Gregory's boutique litigation practice handles significant disputes, including those arising out of complex financial products, bankruptcy, intellectual property, construction and real estate. We represent both plaintiffs and defendants and have a reputation for excellence, efficiency and outstanding client service.

Rankings

Mergers & Acquisitions

RECOMMENDED FIRM

2023

Capital markets

RECOMMENDED FIRM

2023

Practices & Industries

Mergers &
Acquisitions

Egen Gregory lawyers excel in transactions. We provide a complete range of services to international and domestic companies and financial institutions in all types of transactions. These include strategic joint ventures, cross-border transactions.

Featured Experience

Private Equity

Egen Gregory represents private equity firms in connection with all aspects of their businesses, including structuring and organizing fund sponsors and their investment funds; executing acquisitions, financings and exit transactions.

Featured Experience

Oil & Gas

We represent a wide range of clients in the oil and gas sector. We handle sophisticated projects, joint ventures, mergers, acquisitions and divestures, the issuance of domestic and international debt instruments.

Featured Experience

Capital Markets

Egen Gregory’s equity and debt capital markets practice is at the forefront of advising clients on a wide spectrum of financial transactions across various industries but with particular focus on energy, mining and metals, and financial institutions.

Featured Experience

Banking & Finance

Egen Greogry’s banking and finance practice provides legal services to banks, financial institutions, and other clients in the finance industry. The combination of legal knowledge and practical local experience makes us a top choice for clients in this complex practice.

Featured Experience

Construction
& Infrastructure

We have extensive experience in providing legal services to clients in the hospitality and retail sectors. The combination of legal knowledge and practical experience in the hospitality and retail industries makes us a top choice for clients in need of legal services in these sectors.

Featured Experience

Hospitality & Retail

The Egen Gregory team work to ensure that their clients in the hospitality and retail sectors are able to establish and operate their businesses effectively and efficiently, while minimizing legal risks and complying with all applicable laws and regulations.

Featured Experience

Media

Egen Gregory’s media law practice is highly respected and at the forefront of advising media companies on regulatory, digital media, copyright, licensing, and trademark issues.

Featured Experience

Dispute Resolution

Egen Gregory has a strong litigation practice, representing clients in a wide range of civil and commercial disputes.The combination of common law and civil law knowledge and practical courtroom experience makes us a top choice for representation in complex litigation matters.

Featured Experience

Contact Us

If you are an existing client, please get in touch with your Egen Gregory contact directly. For all other inquiries, please complete the form below.

Join Us

We seek academically excellent candidates who are enthusiastic about practicing law and are confident in their abilities as we strive to provide our clients with legal services of the highest quality. We value openness and collegiality, and look for candidates who do so as well.

Send your CV & cover letter to:

career@egengregory.com

Almaty

140/140a
Kabanbai Batyr Street
3rd Floor,
Almaty, 050012,
Kazakhstan

+7 727 239 10 15
info@egengregory.com

New York

244 Fifth Avenue,
Suite V-243
New York, NY 1000,
USA

+1 212 726 2941
info@egengregory.com

Our New York presence was established to serve our clients on their investments in the United States.

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