Garrigues Merges with BSVV to Strengthen Chile Presence

Why It Matters

The merger strengthens Garrigues’ position as the leading international law firm in Chile, giving clients deeper local expertise and a broader platform for Latin American transactions.

Key Takeaways

• Combined Chile team totals 130 lawyers, 24 partners.
• Garrigues' Latin America footprint now spans four countries.
• BSVV brings 11 partners and 50 lawyers across 21 practices.
• Deal leverages Chile’s 2.5% economic growth.
• Mirrors 2024 Mexico merger, creating second‑largest international presence.

Pulse Analysis

Garrigues’ latest merger underscores a broader trend of European law firms deepening their Latin American presence. After solidifying a foothold in Mexico through the Sánchez Devanny partnership, the firm now adds Chile’s premier boutique, BSVV, to its portfolio. This expansion not only boosts headcount but also diversifies practice capabilities across capital markets, infrastructure, and financing—areas that are increasingly vital as multinational corporations seek reliable counsel for cross‑border deals. By integrating BSVV’s 21 practice areas, Garrigues positions itself as a one‑stop shop for complex, region‑wide transactions.

Chile’s economy grew 2.5% last year, outpacing many regional peers, and its capital markets are attracting heightened foreign investment, especially in mining, renewable energy, and infrastructure. The combined firm’s 130‑lawyer team can now serve a broader client base, from domestic conglomerates to U.S. and European investors looking to navigate Chile’s regulatory landscape. The merger also signals confidence in Chile’s legal market stability, encouraging other international firms to consider similar alliances to capture growth opportunities in a market that values both global reach and local insight.

For clients, the Garrigues‑BSVV alliance promises seamless service continuity, enhanced talent development, and greater innovation in legal technology. Competitors will need to respond, either through organic growth or strategic partnerships, to avoid losing market share. As Latin America continues to integrate more closely with global capital flows, firms that can offer both deep local knowledge and an international network will likely dominate the advisory space, making Garrigues’ Chile move a bellwether for future consolidation in the region.