The Bond Indenture

To issue a corporate bond, an issuer must prepare a formal written document called a bond indenture, or trust indenture, and file it with the SEC. The bond indenture is the legal document that specifies the scope and features of the bond and holds the issuer to its terms.

Specifically, the indenture must identify:

• • Purpose of the bond issue and its features
• • Conditions under which the bonds may be redeemed before maturity
• • Covenants or promises that the issuing company makes with respect to its obligations over the life of the bond
• • Procedures and remedies should the issuer default
• • Rights and duties of the trustee

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