Demand Guarantee
A demand guarantee is a type of financial guarantee provided by a bank or financial institution that ensures the beneficiary will be paid a specified sum if the principal (the party requesting the guarantee) fails to meet their contractual obligations. Unlike traditional guarantees, a demand guarantee is payable upon the beneficiary's first demand without the need to prove the default. This makes it a fast and reliable way for beneficiaries to secure payment in case of non-performance or breach of contract. Demand guarantees are widely used in international trade, construction, and project financing, where the risks of non-performance or default are high.
Example
A contractor might provide a demand guarantee to a client, ensuring payment in the event that the contractor fails to complete a construction project on time.
Key points
• Payable on first demand without proving default.
• Common in international trade, construction, and finance.
• Provides security and mitigates the risk of non-performance.