Back To Back Bank Guarantee Template for Hong Kong

The Back to Back Bank Guarantee is a sophisticated financial instrument used when a bank (the first bank) issues a guarantee to a beneficiary, supported by a counter-guarantee from another bank (the second bank). This arrangement is commonly used in international trade, construction projects, and complex commercial transactions where parties operate in different jurisdictions or require additional security arrangements. Under Hong Kong law, this document needs to comply with the Banking Ordinance and incorporate international banking practices while maintaining clarity in the mirror-imaging of obligations between the two guarantees. The document is particularly crucial when the original applicant's bank cannot directly issue a guarantee acceptable to the beneficiary, often due to jurisdictional or credit rating requirements. It includes comprehensive details about demand mechanisms, payment terms, expiry conditions, and compliance requirements specific to Hong Kong's regulatory framework.

1. Parties: Identifies all parties involved: First Bank (Issuing Bank), Second Bank (Counter-Guarantor), Applicant, and Beneficiary

2. Background: Explains the context of the back-to-back arrangement, including reference to the underlying transaction and primary guarantee

3. Definitions: Defines key terms used in the guarantee, including 'Primary Guarantee', 'Counter-Guarantee', 'Trigger Event', and other relevant banking terms

4. Structure of the Back-to-Back Arrangement: Details the relationship between the primary guarantee and counter-guarantee

5. Guarantee Amount and Currency: Specifies the amount and currency of both guarantees, including any automatic reduction mechanisms

6. Term and Expiry: Defines the duration of the guarantees and conditions for expiry

7. Demand Requirements: Specifies the form and content requirements for making a valid demand under each guarantee

8. Payment Terms: Details the payment obligations, timing, and mechanics

9. Rights and Obligations: Sets out the specific rights and obligations of each party

10. Fees and Charges: Specifies all applicable fees, charges, and commission arrangements

11. Representations and Warranties: Standard banking representations and warranties from all parties

12. Governing Law and Jurisdiction: Specifies Hong Kong law as governing law and jurisdiction for disputes