AEQUITAS remains a top-tier choice for local counsel, specialising in banking and finance, labour and employment, M&A, natural resources and environmental law. The firm has been expanding in healthcare and pharmaceuticals, gaining recognition for specialist areas such as insurance, media and customs, while also venturing into bitcoin and cryptocurrency. Managing partner Olga Chentsova is a key contact. The firm welcomed Bernar Alikhan as an associate in October 2024, strengthening its corporate law and dispute resolution practices. In December 2024, associate Zhandaulet Sholanov departed the firm, where he had focused on banking and finance, energy, natural resources and competition matters.

Work highlights. Advised SAP Kazakhstan on comprehensive labour relations matters as local counsel, including analysis of leased labour procedures and external personnel engagement structures. The firm provided strategic guidance on employee termination processes, staff reduction procedures and conflict resolution, while supporting the establishment of employee representation mechanisms and bonus payment obligations. The detailed analysis culminated in a comprehensive memorandum addressing complex labour compliance requirements in Kazakhstan.

Key clients. Aristo Pharma, AVATR Technology (Chongqing) Co, Saipem, SCM Group

Client feedback. "They are very commercial, have hands-on transactional experience, provide great client service and are generally very pleasant to deal with. The quality of advice is consistent and of very high standard – timely, accurate and commercial." – Corporate and M&A

• Labour and employment - Yuliya Chumachenko - Notable practitioner

• Corporate and M&A - Kirill Greshnikov - Rising Star

Olga Chentsova - Elite practitioner Yelena Manayenko - Notable practitioner

What the team is known for. AEQUITAS Law Firm has a notable domestic legal practice in Kazakhstan, assisting international clients with local law issues affecting cross-border mandates as well as representing domestic clients in local projects. The law firm is experienced in project financing, construction, corporate and financial restructurings and M&A projects. Aequitas Law Firm's domestic market position makes it a popular choice for many international law firms seeking local law advice in Kazakhstan.

Strengths. "Aequitas excels in managing sophisticated transactions, demonstrating a keen understanding of financial markets and the ability to structure deals that meet clients' diverse objectives." "Aequitas has excellent knowledge of corporate law, competition law and other related branches of law and the ability to promptly offer options for legal solutions at the request of the client."

Notable practitioners. Yelena Manayenko (Band 4) heads the firm's M&A practice. She advises on both domestic and cross-border transactions and related due diligence work.

"Yelena exhibits exceptional expertise in legal due diligence within the corporate & finance markets, adeptly identifying potential risks and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements."

"Yelena exhibits exceptional professionalism and expertise in their field, consistently delivering high-quality legal services."

What the team is known for. AEQUITAS Law Firm is a highly reputed domestic law firm in Kazakhstan, which represents clients in a broad range of commercial disputes, including contractual and debt recovery cases, as well as domestic enforcement work. The legal practice is also frequently engaged to provide Kazakh law expertise in international arbitrations seated overseas. The law firm regularly handles tax and construction disputes. Aequitas often acts for international and domestic clients from the professional services, construction and consumer goods sectors.

Strengths. "Prompt problem solving is one of their main strengths."

Work highlights. Aequitas acted for Quorumdebt Management Group in its dispute with NAC Kazatomprom regarding a services agreement.

Notable practitioners. Olga Chentsova (Eminent Practitioners) is the firm's managing partner, based in Almaty. She is well-regarded for her expertise in international arbitration and domestic litigation matters.

"Olga is a highly qualified specialist."

What the team is known for. AEQUITAS Law Firm is an established domestic legal practice in Kazakhstan, well versed in subsoil-related regulatory issues. The legal practice also advises international and domestic corporates on regulatory, corporate structuring and transactional mandates. Additionally, the law firm assists with construction projects. Aequitas is often chosen by foreign investment companies on cross-border mandates, where the firm provides valuable due diligence.

Work highlights. Aequitas Law Firm assisted East Star Resources with its acquisition of Discovery Ventures Kazakhstan.

Strengths. "Aequitas demonstrates a keen understanding of business needs and an ability to provide pragmatic legal advice aligned with commercial objectives."

"Aequitas's service level is commendably thorough, demonstrating a deep understanding of the complexities in the energy sector, coupled with proactive and efficient responsiveness to client needs."

Notable practitioners. Olga Chentsova (Eminent Practitioners) is based in Almaty and is the managing partner at Aequitas. She has a significant amount of experience in advising on matters related to oil and gas.

"Olga exhibits exceptional legal acumen, coupled with a client-centric approach that ensures tailored and effective representation."

Yelena Manayenko - Band 4 - 4 heads the firm's M&A practice. She advises on both domestic and cross-border transactions and related due diligence work.

"Yelena exhibits exceptional expertise in legal due diligence within the corporate & finance markets, adeptly identifying potential risks and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements."

"Yelena exhibits exceptional professionalism and expertise in their field, consistently delivering high-quality legal services."

Olga Chentsova - Eminent Practitioners - is the firm's managing partner, based in Almaty. She is well-regarded for her expertise in international arbitration and domestic litigation matters.

"Olga is a highly qualified specialist."

Olga Chentsova - Eminent Practitioners - is based in Almaty and is the managing partner at Aequitas. She has a significant amount of experience in advising on matters related to oil and gas.

"Olga exhibits exceptional legal acumen, coupled with a client-centric approach that ensures tailored and effective representation."

Fielding a specialised team in deal structuring and negotiations, as well as in corporate and commercial law, AEQUITAS covers a wide range of work for financial institutions such as World Bank and HSBC. The firm actively cooperates with Magic Circle law firms on cross-border projects, with practice head Yelena Manayenko - Leading Partner - active in advising clients on all aspects of M&A transactions, as well as leading on the drafting and coordination of commercial contracts. Yekaterina Khamidullina - Next Generation Partner - was recently promoted to partner, while Yerbol Almen and Dias Zakirov recently joined the firm.

Olga Chentsova - Hall of Fame

Testimonials

'Very deep understanding of the processes in which they support clients, fantastic cooperation, flexible pricing.' 'You cooperate with them as with an old friend, but they are always courteous, correct and extremely responsive.'

Key clients

Zoser Capital Partners, Noventiq

AEQUITAS handles a range of banking and finance matters, from the issue and placement of shares, to advising clients on local regulations over transactions with securities and the activities of securities market participants. Yelena Manayenko heads the banking and finance team and handles banking legislation and the nuances found in Kazakh law, especially in high-value cross-border transactions. Yekaterina Khamidullina is experienced in project financing and in matters involving the Astana International Financial Centre.

Key clients

Orascom conglomerate in partnership with Zoser Capital Partners (ZCP) fund

Work highlights

Advised Egyptian law firm Matouk Bassiouny & Hennawy in connection with a contemplated transaction involving investment in Solva Capital.

AEQUITAS is well regarded for its focus on cross-border litigation and commercial arbitration, with the firm routinely working alongside specialists from their respective jurisdictions on disputes. The team is led by Olga Chentsova, who is experienced in advising oil and mining clients in litigation and arbitration, and has also been active in representing clients in investment arbitrations and disputes under the rules of various arbitral bodies including UNCITRAL, SCC and ICC. Yuliya Chumachenko is another key name, along with Yekaterina Khamidullina, who was promoted to partner in February, and Kristina Mychka.

Testimonials

‘Aequitas is unique for its resolutive approach and high level of professionalism. The team’s qualifications and expertise ensure effective solutions and strong client outcomes. Compared to other firms, their dedication to addressing client needs and their collaborative spirit make them stand out. Overall, our experience working with them has been highly positive.'

‘Individuals I have worked with are notable for their expertise and dedication. They stand out from competitors because of their strong client focus and practical solutions. This has been particularly valuable in our collaboration.’

Key clients

Quorumdebt Management Group

AEQUITAS is focused on handling matters pertaining to subsoil use including business structuring, asset acquisition and privatisation, with the team having a direct impact on amending the Kazakh legislation relating to the natural resources sector, including Olga Chentsova - Hall of Fame, who helped develop the Petroleum Law and Subsoil Law. Practice head Yelena Manayenko specialises in major transactions and projects relating to the production, processing, and transportation of oil and gas and mining production. Yekaterina Khamidullina was promoted to partner in February 2024.

Testimonials

‘The team has solid knowledge of Kazakhstani laws and we regularly seek their advice if a transaction involves a Kazakhstani element.’

Key clients

East Star Resources

AEQUITAS advises clients engaged with the construction of industrial and social facilities, as well as residential complexes across Kazakhstan. Other services covered by the firm include construction-related disputes as well as representing foreign investors in matters relating to transactions over land plots, buildings and administrative compounds. Olga Chentsova has advised global oil and mining companies on issues relating to environmental legislation. Olga Chentsova leads the practice alongside Yelena Manayenko, Yuliya Chumachenko and Yekaterina Khamidullina, who was promoted to partner in February 2024.

Key clients

EBRD, IsDB

AEQUITAS covers general tax advisory services, and represents clients before the courts and tax authorities, as well as aiding non-residents with tax registration when opening bank accounts in Kazakhstan. Yuliya Chumachenko - Leading Partner - co-leads the practice alongside Yelena Manayenko, and Anton Alexeyev is also a key name.

Key clients

FieldCore, MMC Kaz

AEQUITAS services clients in a variety of industry sectors including international cellular, landline and postal operators and the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan on matters related to TMT projects, such as the use of modern information technologies and equipment, and on M&A transactions relating to companies providing IT services. Yelena Manayenko co-leads the practice with Yuliya Chumachenko, experienced in personal data protection. Kirill Greshnikov - Leading Associates is focused on assisting clients with fintech projects facing issues of regulation of the digital economy and data management.

Testimonials

‘The services are always provided at a high level, with the team at Aequitas more than qualified and experienced from different sides.’

‘High-level legal expertise, deep analysis of the requests and wide pool of professionalism.’

Key clients

MMC Kaz, Teva Pharmaceuticals

AEQUITAS remains a top tier choice for local counsel. It specialises in banking and finance, labour and employment, M&A, natural resources and environmental law. The firm has been expanding in the areas of healthcare and pharmaceuticals and has developed recognition in the market for specialist areas such as insurance, media and customs. It is also foraying into the bitcoin and cryptocurrency space with recent work representations. Managing partner Olga Chentsova is a key contact.

Advising Coinhub on matters related to cryptocurrency exchanges and applicable regulations in the Kazakhstan territory.

Assisting a global project in the restructuring of a German business, involving preparation of the reorganisation plan and spin-off of the mining business, transfer of assets, re-registration of ThyssenKrupp Industrial Solutions Kazakhstan, and registration of a branch of ThhyssenKrupp Mining Technologies.

Yuliya Chumachenko

Olga Chentsova

What the team is known for. AEQUITAS Law Firm has a notable domestic legal practice in Kazakhstan, assisting international clients with local law issues affecting cross-border mandates as well as representing domestic clients in local projects. The law firm is experienced in project financing, construction, corporate and financial restructurings and M&A projects. Aequitas Law Firm's domestic market position makes it a popular choice for many international law firms seeking local law advice in Kazakhstan.

Work highlights. Aequitas provided legal advice to Elements Group and its subsidiary Convexity, specialising in blockchain, on engagement of freelance programmers and software engineers in Kazakhstan.

What the team is known for. AEQUITAS Law Firm is a highly reputed domestic law firm in Kazakhstan, which represents clients in a broad range of commercial disputes, including contractual and debt recovery cases, as well as domestic enforcement work. The legal practice is also frequently engaged to provide Kazakh law expertise in international arbitrations seated overseas. The law firm regularly handles tax and construction disputes. Aequitas often acts for international and domestic clients from the professional services, construction and consumer goods sectors.

Strengths. "Their lawyers demonstrate strong analytical skills and have a comprehensive and complex approach."

"Their lawyers have strong intellectual strength and the ability to find logical solutions."

Work highlights. Aequitas advised NATUSANA on litigation against Kazakhstan customs authorities regarding the classification of its pharmaceuticals.

What the team is known for. AEQUITAS Law Firm is an established domestic legal practice in Kazakhstan, well versed in subsoil-related regulatory issues. The legal practice also advises international and domestic corporates on regulatory, corporate structuring and transactional mandates. Additionally, the law firm assists with construction projects. Aequitas is often chosen by foreign investment companies on cross-border mandates, where the firm provides valuable due diligence.

Strengths. "Aequitas Law Firm is flexible in its approach and understands the legal and commercial needs of the client."

"The local team was well aware of the environment our client operated in and was able to tailor its advice and diligence accordingly."

Yelena Manayenko Band 4 heads the firm's M&A practice. She advises on both domestic and cross-border transactions and related due diligence work.

Olga Chentsova Eminent Practitioners is the firm's managing partner, based in Almaty. She is well regarded for her expertise in international arbitration and domestic litigation matters.

Ardak Idayatova Band 4 is a partner in Almaty who advises major international clients on a range of disputes, including tax, construction and bankruptcy. She is regarded for her expertise in civil cases concerning Kazakh law.

"Ardak is technically a very good lawyer."

"Ardak is a great lawyer, who is highly professional and business-oriented."

Olga Chentsova Eminent Practitioners is based in Almaty and is the managing partner at AEQUITAS. She has a significant amount of experience in advising on matters related to oil and gas.

AEQUITAS finds its strengths within securities transactions, bank loans, acquisition of assets, shares and commodities. Yelena Manayenko Recommended leads the practice, with experience in major transactions and projects, alongside advising clients on the issues of structuring local and international transactions. Yekaterina Khamidullina - Recommended - is noted for her expertise in project finance and anti-corruption compliance matters.

Olga Chentsova - Hall of Fame

Lead by Almaty-based corporate and commercial law experts Yelena Manayenko Leading Individual and Yuliya Chumachenko Recommended, AEQUITAS features expertise in deal structuring and negotiations, applications before Kazakhstan’s competition regulator and in the development of Kazakhstan’s corporate legislation. The firm handles matters for a range of high profile clients such as Deutsche Bank and Johnson & Johnson, alongside cooperating with prestigious law firms around the world. Olga Chentsova has been advising major global oil and mining companies on issues pertaining to corporate legislation, while Yekaterina Khamidullina Rising star is another notable name.

Key clients Elements Group AG

AEQUITAS focuses on cross-border litigation and commercial arbitration, frequently working with firms from other jurisdictions on cross-border disputes. The team is prevalent across multiple areas across dispute resolution, including contract, construction, patent and copyright, banking and liquidation.

Testimonials

‘The company works with knowledge of the case and clear approaches. All issues of the court case were resolved promptly and on time.’ ‘I liked that the lawyers of AEQUITAS were extremely client-oriented, worked with an individual approach to each emerging issue.’

Key clients

Dr. Theiss Naturwaren GmbH, PRONAR Sp. z o.o.

Led by Yelena Manayenko - Recommended, AEQUITAS specialise on a range of issues across its subsoil use practice, having advised clients on business structuring, asset acquisition and privatisation. The team has participated in negotiations on mineral-exploration and production contracts between investors and the Kazakh government, alongside assisting in international arbitrations and Kazakh courts to settle disputes over matters related to the activities of mining and processing companies. Almagul Agadil - Recommended advises major transnational companies in transactions involving oil and gas companies, whereas Zhandaulet Sholanov Rising Star is experienced in projects dealing with subsoil use, energy issues and renewable energy.

Testimonials

‘Aequitas is very knowledgeable, proactive and has been very helpful in understanding local requirements. The team is flexible and efficient.’ ‘Yelena Manayenko is very knowledgeable and was very helpful in dealing with local requirements involving a large cross-border transaction. She has demonstrated flexibility and efficiency throughout the mandate.’

AEQUITAS provides legal support to the construction of infrastructure projects. The team was led by Ardak Idayatova, who specialised in all-round support to major projects, including representing foreign investors, international development banks and foreign contractors.

Testimonials

‘We appreciate AEQUITAS customer focus, efficiency, individual approach and high level of the provided services.’ ‘AEQUITAS lawyers are very professional, they have a great experience which they use day by day. They are very convenient to contact, because they always stayed in touch and gave prompt feedback on all requests.’

AEQUITAS provides general tax law consultations, including client representation in court in connection with major tax disputes, drafting IFRS-compliant accounting tax policies for resident and non-resident legal entities, alongside providing tax registration of non-residents when opening bank accounts in Kazakhstan. Yuliya Chumachenko Leading Individuals is noted for her advisory work in the pharmaceutical sector. Kristina Mychka Recommended is another key contact.

Other key lawyers

Larissa Yemelyanova; Alexandr Chumachenko; Anton Alexeyev

Testimonials

‘We appreciate AEQUITAS customer focus, efficiency, individual approach and high level of the provided services. ’ ‘Kristina Mychka and Anton Alexeyev accompany our business related to tax issues. They have proven themselves as experienced professionals who in time can analyze the situation and offer the most advantageous solutions.’

Led by Yelena Manayenko Recommended, AEQUITAS advises on local law issues across the TMT spectrum, including data processing, lease of communication channels and cryptographic information protection, with the team regularly providing and preparing articles and guides on the cryptocurrency, digital assets and other principles relating to TMT. Kirill Greshnikov Rising Star specialises in digital, corporate and commercial law with a focus on TMT within the financial sector.

Key clients

Elements Group AG

Kazakhstan: Firm of the Year

Olga Chentsova - Thought Leader

Olga Chentsova - Global Elite Thought Leader Natalya Braynina - Recommended Yelena Manayenko - Recommended

Yuliya Chumachenko - Recommended

Olga Chentsova - Recommended Natalya Braynina - Recommended

Nurlan Sholanov - Recommended

AEQUITAS is recommended in M&A - Tier 2, Capital Markets - Tier 3, Banking & Finance - Tier 3 and Project Development - Tier 3 and is recognized as a leading domestic law firm.

Managing Partner Olga Chentsova was named Highly regarded Lawyer in the field of Energy & Infrastructure and Project development, and was included into the IFLR1000 Women Leaders elite ranking.

Yelena Manayenko, Partner and Head of M&A, was also noted as Highly regarded Lawyer in Banking and M&A practices.

Review. Aequitas is a full-service law firm with an office in Almaty, Kazakhstan, founded in 1993.

The firm is experienced in corporate law and project development. In banking and finance it advises the financing side on ISDA agreements, derivative purchases, direct financing, project financing and provides regulatory advice.

In project development it advises investors and contractors on projects in construction and mining.

AEQUITAS remains a top-tier choice for local counsel. It specialises in banking and finance, labour and employment, M&A, natural resources and environmental law. The firm has been expanding in the areas of healthcare and pharmaceuticals and has developed recognition in the market for specialist areas such as insurance, media and customs. It is also foraying into the bitcoin and cryptocurrency space with recent work representations. Managing partner Olga Chentsova is a key contact.

Work highlights. Advised ForgeGlobal on issues relating to the acquisition and sale of securities by the US-based brokers to clients who are Kazakhstan residents. Advised Coinhub on complying with Kazakhstan’s law and regulation regarding activities of cryptocurrency exchanges. Acted as the local counsel for Thyssenkrupp on the Kazakhstan part of the company’s restructuring.

Key clients. Berlin Chemie, DAI Global, Johnson & Johnson, Unilever

Client feedback. “AEQUITAS is very responsive, flexible and thoughtful with regard to the client’s business concerns.” – Corporate and M&A

Tair Kulteleev. “Very quick in responding to the client’s business concern.”

Yuliya Chumachenko

Olga Chentsova

Infrastructure

Oil and gas

What the team is known for. AEQUITAS Law Firm has a notable domestic legal practice in Kazakhstan, assisting international clients with local law issues affecting cross-border mandates as well as representing domestic clients in local projects. The law firm is experienced in project financing, construction, corporate and financial restructurings and M&A projects. The team represents clients from sectors such as cryptocurrency, retail, oil and gas, energy and pharmaceutical, with examples including Coinhub, thyssenkrupp and Johnson & Johnson. Aequitas Law Firm's domestic market position makes it a popular choice for many international law firms seeking local law advice in Kazakhstan

Strengths. "They have an intuitive grasp of cross-border dynamics."

"The team members are attentive to detail and provide complex legal support."

"They adapt to client needs and complex problems."

Work highlights. AEQUITAS advised thyssenkrupp on the re-registration of thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions Kazakhstan as well as supporting on the overall reorganisation plan for the German business.

What the team is known for. AEQUITAS Law Firm is a highly reputed domestic law firm in Kazakhstan, which represents clients in a broad range of commercial disputes, including contractual and debt recovery cases, as well as domestic enforcement work. The legal practice is also frequently engaged to provide Kazakh law expertise in international arbitrations seated overseas. The law firm regularly handles tax and construction disputes. Aequitas often acts for international and domestic clients from the professional services, construction and consumer goods sectors.

Work highlights. AEQUITAS advised Leighton Agrio and Anahata Solutions in filing an application to recognise seven of the companies' debtors as bankrupt.

What the team is known for. AEQUITAS Law Firm is an established domestic legal practice in Kazakhstan, well versed in subsoil-related regulatory issues. The legal practice also advises international and domestic corporates on regulatory, corporate structuring and transactional mandates. Additionally, the law firm assists with construction projects. Aequitas is often chosen by foreign investment companies on cross-border mandates, where the firm provides valuable due diligence.

Strengths. "They are responsive and precise."

"AEQUITAS worked with great efficiency and well under the proposed budget."

Work highlights. AEQUITAS advised an electrical energy producer on a bank loan to finance the construction of a gas-fired power plant in Uzbekistan.

Nurlan Sholanov Band 4 is the head of AEQUITAS Law Firm's corporate practice, based in Almaty. He is experienced in handling a range of matters including advising on cryptocurrency regulation, as well as group restructurings.

Yelena Manayenko Band 4 heads the firm's M&A practice. She advises on both domestic and cross-border transactions and related due diligence work. "Yelena is a highly qualified expert providing comprehensive legal support."

Olga Chentsova Eminent Practitioners is the firm's managing partner, based in Almaty. She is well regarded for her expertise in international arbitration and domestic litigation matters.

Ardak Idayatova Band 4 is a partner in Almaty who advises major international clients on a range of disputes, including tax, construction and bankruptcy. She is regarded for her expertise in civil cases concerning Kazakh law.

Olga Chentsova Eminent Practitioners is based in Almaty and is the managing partner at AEQUITAS. She has a significant amount of experience in advising on matters related to oil and gas. "She is a very distinguished lawyer."

​AEQUITAS is recommended in M&A Tier 2, Capital Markets: Debt Tier 2, Capital Markets: Equity Tier 3, Banking & Finance Tier 3 , Financial & Corporate Tier 2 and Project Development Tier 3 and is recognized as a leading domestic law firm.

Managing Partner Olga Chentsova Highly regarded was named Highly regarded Lawyer in the field of Energy & Infrastructure and Project development, and was included into the IFLR1000 Women Leaders elite ranking. Yelena Manayenko Rising star, Partner and Head of M&A, was also noted as Rising Star in Banking and M&A practices.

Focusses / specialisms. The firm is experienced in corporate law and project development. In banking and finance it advises the financing side on ISDA agreements, derivative purchases, direct financing, project financing and provides regulatory advice.

In project development it advises investors and contractors on projects in construction and mining.

Key clients. Among the clients of the firm are ForgeGlobal and Bitfury.

• Ardak Idayatova Next Generation Partner; Rising Star

AEQUITAS focuses on complex cross-border litigation and commercial arbitration, as well as investment arbitration, in matters that are predominantly based outside of Kazakhstan. In cases with a foreign element, the team collaborates with specialists from respective jurisdictions, bringing outbound work to international law firms. Practice head Ardak Idayatova Recommended, who also heads the firm’s infrastructure and PPP practice, has extensive experience of construction arbitration, particularly those concerning FIDIC contracts. Elsewhere, the group has expertise in disputes connected to employment, banking and bankruptcy, among others. Valikhan Shaikenov left the firm in February 2022 to found Shaikenov Law Experts (SHEL).

Other key lawyers

Farukh Iminov

Testimonials

"A professional team with deep knowledge of the subject. Always very precise and follow the timeline.”

“Very responsive, digging into the depth of the question and details to give the best solutions. Thoroughly prepared and open to discussion."

The construction and real estate department at AEQUITAS is known for its involvement in the construction of major industrial and social facilities, as well as large residential complexes in Kazakhstan. Construction-related litigation and international arbitration form a significant portion of the team’s workload, although it is also well-placed to provide foreign investors with transactional advice in relation to land plots, buildings, and residential and administrative compounds. Ardak Idayatova Recommended and Nurlan Sholanov Recommended jointly head up the practice. Valikhan Shaikenov left the firm in February 2022.

Yelena ManayenkoRecommended and Nurlan Sholanov Recommended head the banking and finance practice at AEQUITAS. International clients turn to the firm for its experience in local business and security transactions, bank loans, and the acquisition of assets, shares and commodities. In addition, the group advises on Islamic finance and alternative financing instruments and has seen recent growth in the number of clients whose activities relate to the use of cryptocurrency in Kazakhstan. Another name to note is senior associate Yekaterina Khamidullina Recommended.

Other key lawyers

Yekaterina Khamidullina; Kirill Greshnikov

Testimonials

“AEQUITAS has assisted us in multiple matters over the past few years in relation to Kazakhstan law, and I have been delighted by their service in all respects.”

• Olga Chentsova Hall of Fame

Almaty-based partners Yelena Manayenko Recommended, Nurlan Sholanov Recommended and Yuliya Chumachenko Recommended jointly head the corporate department at AEQUITAS. M&A work is a core area of focus for the team, who are able to assist with deal structuring and negotiations, the acquisition of shares and assets, and applications before Kazakhstan's competition regulator. Elsewhere, the practice is renowned for its involvement in the development of Kazakhstan’s corporate legislation, including the civil code, law on limited and additional liability partnerships, and law on joint stock companies.

Other key lawyers

Yekaterina Khamidullina; Alexandr Chumachenko; Larissa Yemelyanova; Tair Kulteleev; Anton Alexeyev

Testimonials

“A professional team with deep knowledge of the subject. Always very precise in the information and follow the timeline.”

“Very responsive, digging into the depth of the question and details to give the best solutions.”

“Aequitas provides very high-quality legal services in Kazakhstan; we had no doubts about who to contact for advice. The work was done clearly within the agreed time frame, and we received the most comprehensive answers to our questions.”

“Yulia Chumachenko and Anton Alekseev proved to be extremely responsible performers, they were always in touch and explained all the ways to solve our issue as clearly as possible.”

“Highly professional and business oriented. They’re one of the best law firms I’ve ever worked with.”

“Yulia Chumachenko is a great lawyer. I hope there will be some new projects with her and the team in the field of pharmaceutical/corporate law.”

• Olga Chentsova Hall of Fame

AEQUITAS‘ energy and natural resources department focuses on subsoil use (oil and gas and solid minerals), with the team acting for leading mining and processing companies. The group have experience advising on a diverse range of issues, including M&A, financings and business structurings, as well as mineral exploration and production contracts between investors and the state. It is also well-placed to handle international arbitration proceedings and litigation in the Kazakh courts to settle mining-related disputes. Almaty-based partners Yelena Manayenko Recommended and Nurlan Sholanov Recommended head up the practice, which also includes managing partner Olga Chentsova Recommended.

– Yuliya Chumachenko Leading Individual

Almaty-based partners Yuliya Chumachenko Recommended and Ardak Idayatova Recommended jointly head up the tax and customs practice at AEQUITAS. Praised by clients for its ‘deep knowledge‘, the team has experience in tax disputes before tax authorities, as well as in matters involving tax return completion, tax registration, and the drafting of IFRS-compliant accounting tax policies. The practice’s recent workload has largely revolved around clients operating in the pharmaceutical sector, including some of the world’s foremost multinationals, as well as a number of energy sector players. Other key individuals include senior associates Larissa Yemelyanova Recommended and Alexandr Chumachenko Recommended.

Other key lawyers

Larissa Yemelyanova; Alexandr Chumachenko

Testimonials

“A professional team with deep knowledge.”

“Very responsive, digging into the question and details to give the best solutions.”

“AEQUITAS provides very high-quality legal services. The work was done clearly and within the agreed time frame. We received the most comprehensive answers to our questions.”

“Extremely responsible and always in touch.”

AEQUITAS‘ work in the TMT space includes transactional M&A support, licensing matters and advice on the use of modern information technologies and equipment. The firm has been recently engaged by clients operating in the pharmaceutical, telecommunications and fintech sectors, such as Digital Health Technologies and Coinhub. Nurlan Sholanov Recommended – whose focus encompasses corporate law and project finance – heads up the practice. Senior associate Tair Kulteleev Recommended is also noted. All named lawyers are based in Almaty.

Other key lawyers

Tair Kulteleev

Testimonials

“Fast and precise answers were the main factors in choosing this law firm.”

“Tair Kulteleev was our main contact and was always available to answer our questions.”

AEQUITAS is the Firm of the Year in Kazakhstan

Thought Leaders – Firm Management 2023

Olga Chentsova Thought Leader

Energy – Oil & Gas 2023

Olga Chentsova Global Elite Thought Leader is a top-notch lawyer who sources recommend thanks to her profound ability when it comes to complex oil and gas law issues.

Natalya Braynina Recommended is adept at representing clients active in the oil and gas industries on a range of matters including acquisitions and litigation proceedings.

Yelena Manayenko Recommended **

Labour Employment & Benefits 2023**

Yuliya Chumachenko Recommended **

M&A and Governance 2023**

Olga Chentsova Recommended

Natalya Braynina Recommended

Project Finance 2023

Nurlan Sholanov Recommended