Default Swap

/ˈdɪfɔːlt swɑːp/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A financial derivative contract in which one party transfers the credit risk of a third party to another party, typically used to hedge against or speculate on the default of a debtor.
    The investor purchased a default swap to protect against the risk of the company failing to repay its debt.

Forms

  • default swap
  • default swaps

Commentary

Default swaps are a form of credit default swaps; precise drafting should define parties' obligations upon a credit event clearly.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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