Banking & Finance

With around thirty banks and some fifty asset management companies operating within just two square kilometres, Monaco’s banking and financial sector has earned a reputation for excellence. This unique geographic and institutional landscape is naturally reflected in the Principality’s regulatory architecture.

Monaco’s banking and finance law is a composite system, drawing not only on domestic legislation but also on French and European frameworks. The numerous agreements binding Monaco to neighbouring France and the European Union result in the application of an evolving body of law within the Principality – one that is becoming increasingly complex.

In this ever-changing legal environment, characterised by sustained regulatory expansion, complex frameworks and growing scrutiny from regulators and courts, our deep local expertise has established us as a leading firm in Monaco in this sector. Drawing on extensive, multidisciplinary and recognised expertise, we have been advising banks and financial institutions in Monaco for over twenty years.

Whether Monaco-based or international, already well-established or looking to enter the market, our clients come to us for a comprehensive, fully integrated service, tailored to the Principality’s unique legal and regulatory landscape.

Led by Olivier Marquet, Managing Partner, our Banking & Finance team is unique in Monaco. It brings together specialists in Monaco law with substantial experience gained in Monaco and across Europe, combining high-level technical expertise in banking and finance with a strong local network.

Several team members have held positions within regulatory authorities, giving us a deep understanding of the challenges you face and enabling us to develop solutions tailored to your specific needs.

In an evolving legal and regulatory landscape, it is more important than ever to rely on lawyers who can anticipate risk and navigate emerging challenges across banking and finance, and beyond. Our ambition is clear: to meet all your legal, regulatory and contentious needs with precision and insight.

We provide comprehensive coverage across all areas of banking and finance law, including compliance, disciplinary procedures before regulatory authorities, capital markets and financial crime. We also advise on real estate financing and support clients in both domestic and cross-border matters. We defend your interests in disputes and fraud-related matters, and assist you in the taking and enforcement of securities, particularly those relating to real estate.

Drawing on the strength of our specialist teams and their close collaboration, we deliver a comprehensive, integrated service tailored to the full range of your needs.

As a true one-stop shop in Monaco, we also advise on employment law, corporate and commercial law, tax and international private wealth matters.

Legal 500 EMEA: Commercial, Corporate and M&A - Tier 1

"They have a great team which is very knowledgeable. They communicate well, are responsive and always available when you need them. They are commercial and solution-oriented, well connected and think along."

Chambers & Partners: General Business Law - Band 1

"Their perfect mastery of the subjects and the possibility of collegial analysis between the different lawyers at the firm mean that they have a great ability to handle complicated cases."

"CMS clearly is the most competent law firm in Monaco. It houses a team of exceptional analytical and creative lawyers, no other law firm in Monaco can offer the same quality."

"Olivier Marquet is an outstanding lawyer. His knowledge and his drive to understand and cover the relevant subjects in great depth are among the best I have seen in my long career in the industry."