Watson, Farley & Williams has advised the Région Rhône-Alpes’ local authority, located in the south-east of France (région lyonnaise), on its issue of €1 billion worth of Euro Medium Term Notes (EMTN). The issue took place on 16 July 2013 in the context of continued unsettled financial markets, including the further downgrading of France’s financial rating to AA status.

The same team assisted the Région Rhône-Alpes previously, on their first EMTN fund raising in 2012.

The WFW Paris team was led by partners, Jérôme Pentecoste (Public law), Eric Villateau (Finance) and Romain Girtanner (Tax). They were assisted by associate, Julien Moiroux.

WFW Paris partner Jérôme Pentecoste commented: “We have seen an increasing number of French local authorities turn to the bond markets to address their financing needs. The WFW Paris team continues to build on its strong track record of assisting clients to raise funds in continued financial uncertainty."