FERA Flashcards
What are the conditions under which foreign controlled companies can borrow in PKR?
Foreign controlled companies registered under the Companies Act, 2017, can borrow in PKR for any purpose except purchasing shares, subject to Prudential Regulations and KYC/AML/CFT standards. The purpose must be clear and documented.
Can non-resident Pakistanis obtain loans in local currency for purchasing immovable property?
Yes, subject to Prudential Regulations and KYC/AML/CFT standards, but the loan must be liquidated through remittances from abroad or debit to their foreign currency accounts, and sale proceeds of the property are not repatriable.
Can resident foreign nationals borrow in PKR?
Yes, except for purchasing immovable property or purposes restricted by the State Bank or law, subject to Prudential Regulations and KYC/AML/CFT standards.
Are non-residents allowed to borrow or lend in local currency without permission?
No, except as specified in paragraph 3 for non-resident Pakistanis and resident foreign nationals, special permission from the State Bank is required.
What is required for Authorized Dealers to extend PKR loans against guarantees from non-residents?
Authorized Dealers can extend PKR loans against non-resident guarantees or collateral outside Pakistan, subject to Prudential Regulations. Guarantees involving FCY outflows (e.g., fees) require prior State Bank approval.
Can Authorized Dealers grant loans in foreign currency without approval?
No, except for FE-25 loans, prior State Bank approval is required, with details of purpose, guarantee/collateral, and repayment method provided.
What is PSBA?
Private Sector Borrowings from Abroad refers to foreign currency loans raised by eligible private sector borrowers in Pakistan from foreign lenders, including commercial credit, supplier’s credit, and bonds.
Who are eligible borrowers for PSBA?
Companies registered under the Companies Act, 2017 (except financial intermediaries), IPPs, and branches of foreign companies permitted by the BOI. Long-term credit rating must be BB- or higher, except for intercompany loans or exporters (up to 80% of annual exports).
Who are eligible lenders for PSBA?
Internationally recognized sources like foreign banks, multilateral institutions (e.g., IFC, ADB), export credit agencies, suppliers, and parent/associated companies, complying with AML/CFT standards.
What are the common terms for PSBA?
Include eligible borrowers/lenders, security (movable/immovable property), registration by Authorized Dealers, forward cover, pre-payment restrictions (except project financing with approval), and prior approval for waivers.
What is the minimum maturity for PSBA for Project Financing?
Three years, used for capitalized project costs (e.g., plant & machinery, expansion), not for onward lending or capital market investment.
What is the borrowing cost ceiling for PSBA for Project Financing with maturity over five years?
600 basis points over the relevant benchmark rate, including spread, insurance, and fees (excluding commitment fees and local costs).
Can PSBA for Project Financing be converted into equity?
Yes, after project completion or 3 years (whichever is later), with State Bank approval, at break-up value (unlisted) or six-month average market value (listed).
What is the maturity range for PSBA for Working Capital?
One month to one year, for foreign currency working capital needs, renewable for a minimum of one month.
What is the borrowing cost ceiling for PSBA for Working Capital?
200 basis points over the relevant benchmark rate.
What terms apply to foreign contractors borrowing PSBA for Working Capital?
Interest-free loans from sponsors/parents, repayable after project completion or milestone, with clearance/exemption certificate from Revenue Authorities.
What is PSBA for Bridge Financing used for?
To meet financing gaps from outstanding project payments or delays in equity/PSBA disbursements, with maturity from six months to one year.
What is the borrowing cost ceiling for PSBA for Bridge Financing?
200 basis points over the relevant benchmark rate.
Does PSBA through securitized instruments or bonds require approval?
Yes, prior State Bank approval is required, with ‘in-principle’ approval before execution and formal approval after submitting agreements.
What is FTFA?
Foreign Currency Trade Financing from Abroad refers to credits extended by overseas suppliers, buyers, or banks for imports/exports (e.g., letters of credit).
Who can raise FTFA?
Companies registered under the Companies Act, 2017, chamber of commerce members (except financial intermediaries), and foreign company branches/subsidiaries approved by BOI, with a BB- credit rating (except intercompany loans).
What is the minimum transaction size and maturity for Import Loans under FTFA?
Over USD 5 million, with a minimum maturity of 2 years.
What is the borrowing cost ceiling for Import Loans under FTFA?
350 basis points over the relevant benchmark rate for maturities of 2 to 5 years.
What is the maximum tenure for Export Loans under FTFA?
The repatriation period for export proceeds plus 60 days, for exporters with firm commitments.