Understanding Contingent Credit Default Swap [CCDS]: A Legal Insight

Definition & Meaning

A contingent credit default swap (CCDS) is a type of financial derivative that provides protection against credit risk. Unlike a standard credit default swap, which is triggered solely by a credit event, a CCDS requires two conditions to be met for activation. The first is a credit event, such as a failure to make interest payments. The second is usually linked to a specific market or industry variable, which may indicate broader economic distress. CCDS are typically used by investors to hedge against risks associated with particular exposures when overall market conditions worsen.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a financial institution may enter into a CCDS to protect itself against the risk of default from a corporate borrower while also considering the impact of a downturn in the industry the borrower operates in. If the borrower defaults and the industry faces significant challenges, the CCDS would be triggered, allowing the institution to mitigate its losses. (Hypothetical example.)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Credit Default Swap (CDS) A financial contract that allows an investor to "swap" or offset their credit risk with that of another investor. Triggered only by a credit event, unlike CCDS which requires an additional market condition.
Contingent Payment Swap A swap agreement where payments depend on the occurrence of a specific event. Typically focuses on payment conditions rather than credit events.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering using a CCDS for risk management, it's essential to understand the specific terms and conditions involved. Consulting with a financial advisor or legal professional can help clarify your options. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms for templates that may assist in drafting agreements related to CCDS.

Quick facts

  • Type: Financial derivative
  • Primary use: Risk management and hedging
  • Triggers: Credit event + market/industry condition
  • Users: Investors, financial institutions

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The main purpose of a CCDS is to provide protection against credit risk while considering broader market conditions.