July 1, 2025


Latham & Watkins Steers Kazakhstan in Monumental $2.5 Billion Sovereign Bond Offering

In a significant financial maneuver, the Republic of Kazakhstan has successfully issued US$2.5 billion in sovereign bonds, guided by the expertise of the global law firm Latham & Watkins. This strategic issuance is split into two tranches: US$1.35 billion of 5.00% notes due in 2032 and US$1.15 billion of 5.50% notes due in 2037.

Both tranches, regulated under US Regulation S and Rule 144A, have secured listings on three major stock exchanges: the London Stock Exchange (LSE), the Astana International Exchange (AIX), and the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE). This diverse listing underscores Kazakhstan's sophisticated approach to tapping global capital markets.

The issuance attracted strong international interest, reflecting the global investment community's confidence in Kazakhstan’s economic stability and growth prospects. The funds raised are earmarked to bolster government spending and facilitate long-term financial planning, essential for sustained national economic health.

On the banking front, heavyweights Citigroup, J.P. Morgan, and Société Générale led the charge as joint lead managers, with local support from Halyk Finance and Teniz Capital. This collaborative effort highlights the synergy between international financial strategies and on-ground expertise within Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan’s methodical engagement with international investors through this bond issuance is part of a broader strategy aimed at maintaining a diversified debt profile. The enthusiastic reception of these bonds across various regions speaks volumes about the country's robust economic fundamentals.

The legal orchestration by Latham & Watkins was pivotal, with the firm's London office taking the lead. The team was spearheaded by partners Manoj Tulsiani, Mikhail Turetsky, and Ryan Benedict, with significant contributions from associate Alexander Kartyshev. Enrique Rene de Vera, a partner in Chicago, handled critical U.S. tax aspects of the deal.

Latham & Watkins LLP, established in 1934, continues to be a beacon of legal expertise globally. With a roster of over 2,000 attorneys across 14 countries, the firm excels in corporate, litigation, and transactional law, serving a diverse clientele in sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance, and energy. Particularly noted for its work with emerging companies, the firm provides comprehensive legal solutions that support startups and growth-stage businesses through complex legal landscapes, affirming its status as a powerhouse in global legal services.