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IMF, Njord Law Firm and Quinn Emanuel propose shareholder action against Danske Bank over one of the world’s largest money-laundering scandals

IMF, Njord Law Firm and Quinn Emanuel propose shareholder action against Danske Bank over one of the world’s largest money-laundering scandals

(LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM 22 January 2019): IMF Litigation Funding Services Limited (IMF LFS), a wholly owned subsidiary of IMF Bentham Limited (ASX:IMF) (IMF), one of the world’s largest and most respected litigation funders, announced today a proposed shareholder action for shareholders of Danske Bank A/S (CPSE:DANSKE) (Danske Bank), to be led by specialist Danish law firm NJORD Law Firm and leading global litigation law firm Quinn Emanuel. The action will seek compensation for shareholders who lost millions of euros in value as a result of perceived errors and omissions committed by Danske Bank’s management and Danske Bank’s failure to disclose to the market the circumstances and magnitude of alleged unlawful activities within its Estonian branch. Background Danske Bank is the largest financial institution in Denmark and has a presence in sixteen countries. In 2007 Danske Bank acquired an Estonian branch as part of its acquisition of Finnish-based Sampo Bank. The Estonian branch held a non-resident portfolio comprising customers from the Russian Federation and the larger Commonwealth of Independent States, including countries such as Azerbaijan and Ukraine. In 2007 Danske Bank’s management were advised by the Russian Central Bank, via the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority, of concerns regarding the non-resident customers of the Estonian branch, including possible tax and custom payments evasion and criminal activity including money laundering. Despite many warnings, including a report from a whistle-blower employed in the Estonian branch in early 2014, and audit letters from Group Internal Audit, Danske Bank’s anti-money laundering procedures at the Estonian branch failed to respond and were manifestly inadequate. It was not until 19 September 2018 that Danske Bank provided sufficient information to inform the market of the true scale of the problems within Danske Bank. Over the course of 2018, Danske Bank’s shareholders experienced a substantial fall in their share value, Shares trading on 2 January 2018 at the equivalent of €25.62 fell to the equivalent of €18.70, following the disclosure on 19 September 2018, (a fall of €6.92 or 27%). IMF LFS’ Investment Manager Alistair Croft said: “EU Justice Commissioner Vera Jourova has referred to the money laundering uncovered within the Bank as ‘the biggest scandal we have now in Europe.’ The failure to disclose approximately €200bn of suspicious money flowing through its Estonia branch has caused serious harm to Danske’s financial position and its reputation. Reports make clear that Danske Bank continued to downplay the problems publicly and gave the impression they were largely historical matters that were substantially resolved. Although Danske Bank engaged in dialogue over many years with regulators in Estonia and Denmark, management disclosed no inkling of any serious issues to their shareholders.” Christian Benedictsen-Nislev, lead partner at NJORD Law Firm, stated: “In our assessment, Danske Bank failed to provide adequate and timely information to the market of the nature and extent of the problems in the Bank, resulting in inflated share prices. NJORD Law Firm is committed to assist shareholders in seeking compensation for losses suffered as a result hereof.” What should Danske Bank shareholders do? The shareholder action is open to investors who suffered loss after acquiring shares in Danske Bank between 29 April 2014 and 19 September 2018 (inclusive). NJORD Law Firm, Quinn Emanuel and IMF encourage all shareholders who acquired shares in Danske Bank during this period to register their interest as soon as possible via IMF’s confidential, dedicated website page (https://www.imf.com.au/danske) or by contacting IMF LFS in London or the lawyers directly. IMF LFS, together with both law firms, will host a group telephone conference call on 31 January 2019 to explain to shareholders how the claim will be run. To register for this call, please email danske@imf.com.au and access details will be posted on IMF’s webpage (https://www.imf.com.au/danske) nearer the time. ABOUT IMF IMF is one of the leading global litigation funders, headquartered in Australia and with offices in the US, Canada, Singapore, Hong Kong and London. IMF has built its reputation as a trusted provider of innovative litigation funding solutions and has established an increasingly diverse portfolio of litigation funding assets. IMF has a highly experienced litigation funding team overseeing its investments. We have a 90% success rate over 179 completed investments and have recovered over AU$1.4 billion for clients since 2001. As at 30 September 2018, there are 74 live investments with an aggregate estimated portfolio for all investments globally of approximately AU$5.8 billion. IMF LFS is a wholly owned subsidiary of IMF and provides dispute finance, investment capital and strategic services for disputes in the EMEA region, which includes the UK, mainland Europe, Middle East and Africa. For further information regarding IMF and its activities, please visit www.imf.com.au ABOUT NJORD LAW NJORD Law Firm is a full-service law firm serving local and international clients through the firm’s offices across the Nordic countries, including Denmark and Estonia. NJORD Law Firm’s litigation department is one of the largest and most experienced among the Top 10 Danish law firms. The firm’s many expert litigators include lawyers specializing in capital markets and securities litigation, and the litigation department has substantial experience with complex, multi-party litigation. For further information about NJORD Law Firm, please visit www.njordlaw.com ABOUT QUINN EMANUEL One of Quinn Emanuel’s largest practice areas is securities litigation. For decades, the firm has represented both plaintiffs and defendants in many of the highest-profile securities cases in the United States. More recently, their global presence has allowed them to advise and represent clients in a broad range of complex securities disputes in major financial markets overseas, including Australia, the U.K., Europe, and Asia. Many of their representations have involved dozens of related shareholder-derivative and class action claims. Over the past eight years, they have achieved verdicts and settlements totalling over $47 billion for their clients in the wave of litigation that arose in the aftermath of the U.S. financial crisis. For further information about Quinn Emanuel, please visit www.quinnemanuel.com
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Burford Issues YPF Litigation Update Ahead of Pivotal Appeal Hearing

By John Freund |

Burford Capital has released a detailed investor update ahead of a key appellate hearing in its high-profile litigation against Argentina over the renationalization of YPF.

According to Burford’s press release, oral arguments in the consolidated appeal—referred to as the “Main Appeal”—are scheduled for October 29, 2025, before the US Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. The hearing will address Argentina’s challenge to a $16 billion judgment issued in 2023, as well as cross-appeals concerning the dismissal of YPF as a defendant. The release outlines the appellate process and timelines in granular detail, noting that a ruling could come months—or even a year—after the hearing, with additional delays possible if rehearing or Supreme Court review is pursued.

Burford also clarified the distinction between the Main Appeal and a separate appeal involving a turnover order directing Argentina to deliver YPF shares to satisfy the judgment. That order has been stayed pending resolution, with briefing set to conclude by December 12, 2025. Meanwhile, discovery enforcement is proceeding in the District Court, where Argentina has been ordered to produce documents—including internal and “off-channel” communications—amid accusations of delay tactics.

International enforcement efforts continue in at least eight jurisdictions, including the UK, France, and Brazil, where Argentina is contesting recognition of the US judgment.

The update serves both as a procedural roadmap and a cautionary note: Burford stresses the unpredictable nature of sovereign litigation and acknowledges the possibility of substantial delays, setbacks, or settlements at reduced values.

The Alliance for Responsible Consumer Legal Funding Applauds Governor Newsom for Signing AB 931

By John Freund |

The Alliance for Responsible Consumer Legal Funding Applauds Governor Newsom for Signing AB 931, the California Consumer Legal Funding Act

The Alliance for Responsible Consumer Legal Funding (ARC) expressed its deep appreciation to Governor Gavin Newsom for signing Assembly Bill 931 -- The California Consumer Legal Funding Act -- into law. Authored by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D–San Jose, 25th District), this landmark legislation establishes thoughtful and comprehensive regulation of Consumer Legal Funding in California—ensuring consumer protection, transparency, and access to financial stability while legal claims move through the judicial process.

The law, which takes effect January 1, 2026, provides consumers with much-needed financial support during the often lengthy resolution of their legal claims, helping them cover essential living expenses such as rent, mortgage payments, and utilities.

“This legislation represents a major step forward for California consumers,” said Eric Schuller, President of the Alliance for Responsible Consumer Legal Funding. “AB 931 strikes the right balance between protecting consumers and preserving access to a financial product that helps individuals stay afloat while they await justice. Consumer Legal Funding truly is about funding lives, not litigation.”
Key Consumer Protections Under AB 931

The California Consumer Legal Funding Act includes robust safeguards that prohibit funding companies from engaging in improper practices and mandate full transparency for consumers.

The Act Prohibits Consumer Legal Funding Companies from:

• Offering or colluding to provide funding as an inducement for a consumer to terminate their attorney and hire another.
• Colluding with or assisting an attorney in bringing fabricated or bad-faith claims.
• Paying or offering referral fees, commissions, or other forms of compensation to attorneys or law firms for consumer referrals.
• Accepting referral fees or other compensation from attorneys or law firms.
• Exercising any control or influence over the conduct or resolution of a legal claim.
• Referring consumers to specific attorneys or law firms (except via a bar association referral service).

The Act Requires Consumer Legal Funding Companies to:

• Provide clear, written contracts stating:
• The amount of funds provided to the consumer.
• A full itemization of any one-time charges.
• The maximum total amount remaining, including all fees and charges.
• A clear explanation of how and when charges accrue.
• A payment schedule showing all amounts due every 180 days, ensuring consumers understand their maximum financial obligation from the outset.
• Offer consumers a five-business-day right to cancel without penalty.
• Maintain no role in deciding whether, when, or for how much a legal claim is settled.

With AB 931, California joins a growing list of states that have enacted clear and fair regulation recognizing Consumer Legal Funding as a non-recourse, consumer-centered financial service—distinct from litigation financing and designed to help individuals meet their household needs while pursuing justice.

“We commend Assemblymember Kalra for his leadership and Governor Newsom for signing this important legislation,” said Schuller. “This act ensures that Californians who need temporary financial relief during their legal journey can do so safely, transparently, and responsibly.”

About the Alliance for Responsible Consumer Legal Funding (ARC)

The Alliance for Responsible Consumer Legal Funding (ARC) is a national association representing companies that provide Consumer Legal Funding, non-recourse financial assistance that helps consumers meet essential expenses while awaiting the resolution of a legal claim. ARC advocates for fair regulation, transparency, and consumer choice across the United States.

Harris Pogust Joins Bryant Park Capital as Senior Advisor

By John Freund |

Bryant Park Capital (“BPC”) a leading middle market investment bank and market leader in the litigation finance sector, is pleased to announce that Harris Pogust has joined the firm as a Senior Advisor.  Harris (Mr. Pogust) is one of the best known and prominent attorneys in the mass tort and class action fields, he was the founding partner and Chairman of Pogust Goodhead worldwide until early 2024 and is currently working with Trial Lawyers for a Better Tomorrow, a charity Harris founded, to help children reach their educational potential all over the world.  Harris’ life work has been to deliver justice for those who have been damaged or injured through the negligence or bad faith of others.

“We are thrilled to have Harris as part of our team.  His knowledge, experience and relationships in the litigation finance sector are of great value to Bryant Park and our clients.  As the litigation finance world becomes more competitive, complex and challenging, having an expert like Harris on our team is invaluable,” said Joel Magerman, Managing Partner of Bryant Park.

Harris’ efforts, in conjunction with Bryant Park will focus on assisting law firms and funders in developing strategies to more efficiently fund their operations and cases and assist them in establishing the right relationships for future growth.  Harris commented, “I have been fortunate to have been a practicing attorney and partner in law firms for over 35 years focused on building and growing a worldwide book of business in the class action/mass tort field.  That required significant capital and throughout my career I have raised over $1 billion for my firms.  I have learned what works and what doesn’t.  I have seen both the risks and rewards in this industry.  I look forward to being able to work with law firms and funders to assist them in putting the right strategies in place with Bryant Park and bringing capital and liquidity to help them grow and flourish.”

About Bryant Park Capital

Bryant Park Capital is an investment bank providing capital raising, M&A and corporate finance advisory services to emerging growth and middle market public and private companies. BPC has deep expertise and a diversified, well-founded breadth of experience in a number of sectors, including specialty finance & financial services. BPC has raised various forms of credit, growth equity, and assisted in mergers and acquisitions for its clients. Our professionals have completed more than 400 assignments representing an aggregate transaction value of over $30 billion.

For more information about Bryant Park Capital, please visit www.bryantparkcapital.com.