LMA Update On The Euro

Many of us will recall the debates on the implications of the introduction of the Euro on loan documentation. Now we are looking at, potentially, the reverse situation.

The Loan Market Association (LMA) has recently published a note on the Euro and the impact that a Eurozone shake-up could have on loan agreements.

It looks at issues which could arise if a Eurozone member departs from the currency union. For example, if a loan is in Euros, and the borrower is based in a Eurozone country which leaves the Eurozone, (a "Departing State"), will the borrower still be obliged to repay the loan in Euros or the new currency of the Departing State?

The answer would depend on the overall situation, for example whether the Departing State leaves the Euro and establishes a new currency with or without EU consensus or EU legislation being put in place. The terms of the loan documentation and its governing law would be other relevant factors.