Differences between the Bank Payment Obligation and Letter of Credit in Global Settlement Method

Abstract

Purpose - The bank payment obligation is a transaction method that combines the certainty of L/C transactions with the speed of remittance payments, so the main purpose of this study is to highlight the superiority of bank payment obligation, noting the difference between bank payment obligation and L/C transactions. In addition, we would like to examine how bank payment obligations can actually be applied to support various valuable proposals such as post-shipment and post-shipment finance according to the payment process..
 Design/methodology - This study focused on literature based on data from ICC and SWIFT along with previous domestic and international studies. In terms of a research method, a literature review was adopted with electronic trade-related books and journals and policy-related reports from international trade-related agencies.
 Findings - Unlike L/C transaction, BPO transaction verify the data inquiry process based only on the combination result of the established baseline and dataset. Accordingly, it is superior to L/C transaction in that there is no confrontation between the parties over the results of the inquiry, and clear transactions are possible according to the principle of proof after prepayment. In addition, unlike credit transactions, data inconsistency acceptance procedures confirm payment obligations in consideration of importers' intentions. As a result, as long as trade documents are in the hands of exporting countries, flexible document disposition is possible in response to the situation after payment, which is more advantageous than L/C transaction.
 Originality/value - Specifically, from the importer's point of view, BPO transactions have the advantage of reducing the manpower required to prepare and review trade documents and processing transaction negotiations with exporters advantageously due to the strength of payment obligations. From the perspective of the exporter, it has the advantage of enabling rapid recovery of trade payments and reducing the risk of importer's cancellation of transactions or content change. From the perspective of participating banks, it is possible to strengthen relations with importer and obtain high commission income by increasing the role of bank reduced by reducing L/C transaction.