Zerafa Advocates
- Headquarters
- Valletta, Malta
- info@zerafa.com.mt
- Phone
- +356 212 201 57
Zerafa Advocates is a boutique Maltese law firm delivering bespoke legal services with a strong emphasis on financial services, fintech, corporate, and commercial law. Founded by Omar Zerafa, the firm operates as a compact, responsive office that prioritises personal attention and efficiency. It has earned a reputation for bridging traditional financial services with technology-driven solutions, advising a diverse clientele including multilateral trading facilities (MTFs) trading digital financial instruments, payment service providers, electronic money issuers, funds and fund management companies investing in fintech, crowdfunding platforms, crypto exchanges, and portfolio management firms employing algorithmic trading. The firm is a member of ALFA International, a premier global legal network comprising over 140 independent law firms worldwide. Zerafa Advocates and its founder have been recognised by Chambers & Partners, highlighting the firm's excellence in the legal field. Headquartered in Valletta, Malta, its dynamic team is well-versed in the intersection of law and technology, enabling it to attract and support innovative projects in the evolving financial services landscape.
Detailed Review
History and Founding
Zerafa Advocates was established to address the growing need for legal expertise that keeps pace with technological change in financial services. Since its inception, the firm has maintained a core belief in the importance of technology within the sector. It has extensive experience advising MTFs that intend to list digital financial instruments on their platforms, as well as financial institutions operating as payment service providers and electronic money issuers. The firm also handles the structuring and licensing of collective investment schemes, investment vehicles, and other regulated entities. A particular strength lies in assisting clients with regulatory compliance in anti-money laundering and financial crime prevention, an area in which founder Omar Zerafa specialises. The firm’s clientele spans innovative fintech startups, established financial operators, and family offices seeking to access private markets.
Practice Areas and Expertise
Beyond its legal advisory, Zerafa Advocates is known for its collaborative approach and membership in ALFA International, which provides clients with access to a global network of independent law firms. The firm’s recognition by Chambers & Partners underscores its standing in the European legal market, particularly in the fintech and financial services space. The team works closely with regulators and industry bodies to ensure that clients receive up-to-date guidance in a rapidly changing regulatory environment.
Market Position and Recognition
While the firm remains intentionally small to maintain agility and close client relationships, its impact in the fintech legal niche is significant, positioning it as a key player in Malta’s status as a hub for blockchain and financial technology.
Key Products
Financial Services & Fintech Advisory
Structuring and licensing of collective investment schemes, investment vehicles, and regulated entities; advice on payment services, electronic money, crowdfunding, and digital asset platforms.
Corporate & Commercial Law
General corporate structuring, contractual matters, and transactional support for businesses in Malta.
Regulatory & Compliance
Anti-money laundering (AML) and financial crime prevention advisory, particularly for financial institutions and fintech operators.
Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) & Blockchain
Guidance on the licensing of crypto exchanges, portfolio management using algorithmic trading, and advising MTFs on digital financial instrument offerings.
Family Office & Private Markets
Structuring investment platforms for single-family offices to access private markets, funds, and direct investments.
Key Persons
- Omar Zerafa
Founder, Advocate, Owner and Managing Director