Exchangeable Notes vs. Convertible Notes: Understanding the Difference

Exchangeable notes and convertible notes are termed structured products--a pre-packaged investment strategy based on a derivative such as a security--in the financial markets. Both the exchangeable and convertible notes are linked to an underlying security which is normally a certain class of stock in a company.

Exchangeable Notes

An exchangeable note is a debt security that the holder may exchange, at a certain price, for common stock in a company which is not the same company as the issuer of the note. The number of shares the holder receives and the price of those same shares is determined at the time the exchangeable note is issued.

ConvertIble Notes

A convertible note is a debt security that allows the holder to convert it into shares of the company that issued the notes. The notes are usually convertible at their maturity date. The holder of a convertible note receives interest on a six month basis and can sell the note in the open market.

Differences

The main difference between a convertible note and an exchangeable note is that the issuer decides when a an exchangeable note is exchanged for shares whereas with a convertible note the note is converted into shares or cash on the maturity of the note.