Shwini Dsouza
Associate
Shwini is an English law qualified associate, specialising in cross border maritime finance, with a keen commercial insight.
Associate
Shwini is an English law qualified associate, specialising in cross border maritime finance, with a keen commercial insight.
Languages - English, Hindi and Konkani
Jurisdiction - England & Wales
With over 8 years of expertise in the region, Shwini brings a unique commercial perspective to maritime trade and offshore finance. Her expertise covers the full spectrum of non-contentious maritime work where she supports a diverse range of banks, financial institutions, and major ship owners, guiding them through shipping finance, vessel sale and purchase, leasing, and ship registration matters.
Her role extends to the firm's global yacht and superyacht team, where she advises on yacht construction contracts, ensuring clients navigate complex transactions with ease. Her expertise also spans project finance, aircraft financings, and general corporate lending where she advises financial institutions, funds, and borrowers on secured lending structures. Known for her ability to act promptly and think commercially, she is a vital asset to clients seeking clarity and precision in high-value matters.
Clients appreciate her direct approach, pragmatism and efficiency in managing multi-jurisdictional transactions and value her as an extension of their team.
An active member of the UAE branch of the Women in Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA), Shwini actively contributes to diversity initiatives across the sector.
US$300m Financing for Major OSV Fleet Expansion
Advised National Bank of Fujairah and The Arab Energy Fund on a US$300 million financing facility to Stanford Marine and Allianz Middle East Ship Management (managed by SHUAA Capital) to support fleet expansion and operational growth across 120 offshore vessels in 13 jurisdictions.
Green Vessel Acquisition Financing
Advised a UAE-based bank on a cross-border financing for a major shipping group’s acquisition of two energy-efficient refrigerated container vessels with advanced hull design and enhanced power systems, reducing fuel use and environmental impact.
Multi-Region Shipping Pre-Demolition Financing
Advised a European bank on multiple shipping pre-demolition financings occurring in several regions including the Middle East, Africa, Central Eastern Europe, Asia, Latin America and the West Indies.
US$160M LBO Financing for SHUAA Marine Acquisition
Advised National Bank of Fujairah and APICORP on a US$160m LBO financing to SHUAA Capital for acquiring Allianz Marine, now managing 152 OSVs, the largest regional portfolio and 4th largest globally. This deal won 'Offshore Deal of the Year – East' at Marine Money 2022.
Six-Vessel Sale and Leaseback Advisory
Acted for a leading offshore marine logistics provider in a six-vessel sale and leaseback with a shipping and oil & gas investment firm. Reviewed and negotiated sale, charterparty, and security documents, securing favourable terms and strong protection for the borrower.
High-Value Ship Acquisition Loan Advisory
Acting as borrower's counsel to a Dubai-based company specialising in the acquisition and resale of ships nearing the end of their operational life, on a high value revolving loan transaction with a well-known UAE bank.
Advising a Client on a Yacht Construction Deal
Advised a HNW individual on a yacht construction contract with a world leading builder of luxury performance based yachts, developed in collaboration with a renowned supercar manufacturer.
Advising on a shipbuilding contract
Advised a leading provider of maritime and offshore services on a newbuilding contract for a 5000-metre sheerleg floating crane.
