Oversea-Chinese Banking Secures Lease Financing

Deal News | Apr 25, 2025 | Stephenson Harwood LLP

Stephenson Harwood (Singapore) Alliance has played a crucial advisory role for Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited (OCBC) in respect of a Japanese Operating Lease with Call Option (JOLCO) financing structure. This innovative lease structure is significant for both companies, demonstrating cutting-edge financial engineering while allowing OCBC to optimize its asset financing strategy. JOLCO structures are increasingly popular as they provide lessees with operational flexibility and potential tax advantages. Legal advisers like Stephenson Harwood play an instrumental part in these deals, ensuring compliance with cross-border regulations and maximizing financial benefits.

Sectors

  • Financial Services
  • Legal Services

Geography

  • Singapore – Stephenson Harwood is based in Singapore, which is relevant given the advisory nature of their role in the deal.
  • Japan – The deal involves a Japanese Operating Lease with Call Option, making Japan a relevant geography.

Industry

  • Financial Services – The article discusses a financing structure involving a bank, highlighting the role of financial services in structuring leasing agreements.
  • Legal Services – Stephenson Harwood, a law firm, advised the bank on the leasing structure, indicating the involvement of legal services.

Financials

  • N/A – The specific financial figures related to the lease deal were not disclosed.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited (OCBC)LesseeCompanyA major bank involved in securing the lease financing.
Stephenson Harwood LLPLegal AdvisorCompanyA law firm providing legal advice for the lease financing structure.