Credit Linked Note (CLN)
Candlefocus EditorFor the investor, a CLN grants the opportunity to earn a higher yield than a traditional debt instrument and in return, he will be exposed to specific credit risks associated with the issuer. The amount of return is proportional to the amount of credit risk taken on by the investor and the amount of risk can be tailored to the investor's risk appetite and return requirement.
The issuer of the CLN utilises the instrument in order to hedge against the risk of a credit event resulting in the issuer to lose money due to the failure to repay their loan. For example, if the issuer defaults on their loan, the investor has the legal right to require repayment on the note, and in return, the issuer is provided with insurance against the risk of default. In order to provide a credit investor with assurance that the issuer can repay, the CLN will have a credit rating. The higher the credit rating of the CLN, the lower the likelihood of default, and the lower the credit risk taken on by the investor.
As the CLN carries the issuer's credit risk, it can be tailored to specific conditions, such as duration, coupon payments and crediting periods, to satisfy the investor and issuer needs. This makes CLN more versatile financial instrument than traditional debt.
CLNs are becoming increasingly popular for issuers looking to raise funds, as it enables them to access capital markets more efficiently than with a traditional debt issuance. For investors, it gives them the opportunity to take on more credit-related risks and receive a higher yield.
Although CLNs are a viable form of investment, it is important to be aware of the associated risks before investing in them. Investors must analyse the credit-worthiness of the issuer, duration of the note, and their risk appetite of the investor. It is also important for the investor and issuer to ensure both parties understand their legal rights to ensure that the terms of the CLN are mutually agreeable and understood by both parties.