Selecting the Right Depositary Bank and Collateral Agent/ Trustee for Your Deal

When choosing a Depositary Bank and Collateral Agent to successfully administer your project finance transaction, look for a Depositary Bank and Collateral Agent that understand the structure and purpose of your deal over its lifetime, bring focused technical review during document drafting without causing delays or interruptions, and that will proactively maintain communication with the active parties in the transaction.

Because of the intermingled nature of the Depositary Bank and Collateral Agent roles, the same institution is usually appointed to manage both allowing for seamless processing. It is important to ensure the institution understands the distinct differences between the two roles and their functions:

The Depositary Bank and Collateral Agent are usually parties to the project’s agreements so that identifying and understanding any cross-references is natural, which plays an essential part in the proper administration of the project finance transaction. The inability or failure of the Depositary Bank and/or Collateral Agent to recognize and act on any cross-references could cause serious harm to the project and negatively impact the borrower’s ability to accomplish project deadlines. Additionally, the two roles are ongoing resources for the borrower. After the deal has been finalized and the agreements executed, the Depositary Bank and the Collateral Agent remain to help the borrower navigate the project’s various governing agreements. They provide guidance on accessing funds, when to submit disbursement requests, and delivery of required compliance items such as insurance certificates and UCC continuation statements. To best serve the interests of and be a knowledgeable resource for the borrower the Depositary Bank and Collateral Agent must employ an experienced staff dedicated to providing exceptional service using systems to facilitate the successful administration of a project finance transaction.

There are many challenges to any large project/transaction – knowing what to look for, and hiring the Depositary Bank and Collateral Agent that is right for your project can be instrumental to its success.

Look for a Depositary Bank and Collateral Agent that understands the structure of your deal and its corresponding responsibilities based on the project’s agreement and any ancillary agreements to which they are signatories. Engage a Depositary Bank and Collateral Agent experienced with reviewing and negotiating all agreements, and who will maintain communication with the active parties in the transaction on various events and issues. Finally, ensure both the Depositary Bank and Collateral Agent maintain a contingency plan to facilitate timely and accurate processing of payments as directed by the borrower in accordance with the governing agreement(s) in the event of an emergency.