Finance Roll

Standby letter of credit (SBLC) funding or the monetizing of bank instruments including Bonds, SBLC's, BG's, LC's or SKR's to fund projects are on the rise. While lending from traditional institutions has virtually come to a production stand still, the monetizing of instruments is on the rise; and for good reason.

SBLC funding or the monetizing of bank instruments is very popular because there are no traditional credit requirements, asset requirements or down payments associated with conventional funding or lending. However, there are very strict requirements in the approval process which includes a favorable compliance report associated with Homeland Security and International Money Laundering Laws.

The process of monetizing bank instruments involves converting a secured instrument, usually backed by a cash, secured account or secured asset, into something legal tender. Many times, the secured or cash backed account or asset is held in a trust or another account in which the holder is unable to retrieve additional funds per the agreement of the account.

Why monetize? As an example, in the economic security of the market 5 years ago, hospitality financing was a very tedious and difficult industry to finance, but still attainable. Today, hospitality financing is almost impossible for those who are seeking new purchases, refinancing, remodeling or construction. If you currently own a hospitality property, the chances of getting funding are greater but depend on performance spanning over a 3 to 5 year period. SBLC funding for hospitality projects or monetizing an instrument can be the solution as there are no performance requirements; the performance is based on the guarantee of the instrument and not the property.

This also stands true for residential developments that are in the mid-stages of construction and halted by the inability to continue to draw on previously arranged credit lines. Commercial developments will also benefit by this method of funding as there are no "anchor" requirements or tenant rolls to supply. Alternative energy project financing are particularly viable for sblc funding or via monetizing a bank instrument. These overcome traditional funding sources tangible asset requirements.

The list is endless as to the uses of the funds for projects and developments. For example, monetizing can also be a viable solution to community economic development, housing and employment creation as well as debt consolidation for corporations and companies.

A few words of warning to those seeking bank instrument providers and monetizing companies. Fraud in this industry is on the rise. The instruments should be issued by Top 25 World Banks. Leased instruments can be monetized but it takes the expressed written permission of the holder of the instrument and of the issuing bank, stating the agreement between all parties and the expressed knowledge of the intention of using the instrument. There should also be a contract issued to the customer after approval, outlining the terms and conditions of instruments and monetizing.

Finally, fees should be deducted from the proceeds when monetizing so there are no upfront costs to you. Arranging instruments usually results in escrowed fees or when internationally arranged, an MT 103/23 will suffice. When all elements are in place, monetizing your instrument should be a safe alternative to conventional type financing.