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Limited Recourse Debt: Understanding Its Mechanics, Applications, and Implications

Last updated 03/11/2024 by

Alessandra Nicole

Edited by

Fact checked by

Summary:
Limited recourse debt offers creditors a partial claim on a borrower’s assets in the event of default, positioned between full recourse and non-recourse debt. This article delves into the mechanics of limited recourse debt, its advantages and disadvantages, and its application in lending scenarios.

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What is limited recourse debt?

limited recourse debt is a financial arrangement where a creditor holds the right to specific assets of a borrower in case of default, without the ability to claim all assets as in full recourse debt or just the collateral as in non-recourse debt.

How limited recourse debt works

In financial terminology, “recourse” indicates a creditor’s legal recourse to recover unpaid debt. limited recourse debt allows creditors to seize specified assets and collateral listed in the loan agreement upon borrower default. However, assets beyond the specified ones remain protected, and the borrower is not personally liable for any shortfall.

Example of limited recourse debt

limited recourse debt is uncommon in consumer lending but can be found in commercial lending, particularly for substantial real estate ventures. For instance, a developer might seek a limited recourse loan to finance a housing development, offering specific assets for creditor seizure in case of default, while protecting other assets.
WEIGH THE RISKS AND BENEFITS
Here is a list of the benefits and the drawbacks to consider.

Pros

  • Partial protection of borrower’s assets

Cons

  • Limited protection compared to non-recourse debt
  • Potential higher interest rates

Frequently asked questions

Is limited recourse debt common in consumer lending?

limited recourse debt is more prevalent in commercial lending, especially for large-scale projects, rather than in consumer lending.

Can limited recourse debt protect all of a borrower’s assets?

no, limited recourse debt only protects specific assets listed in the loan agreement. Other assets remain vulnerable to creditor seizure.

Why do lenders charge higher interest rates for limited recourse debt?

lenders perceive limited recourse debt as riskier compared to full recourse debt, hence the higher interest rates to compensate for the increased risk.

Key takeaways

  • Limited recourse debt grants creditors a partial claim on borrower assets in the event of default.
  • Borrowers may benefit from limited recourse debt as it shields some assets from creditor seizure.
  • Limited recourse debt is less favorable to lenders, who may charge higher interest rates or offer it less frequently.

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