What is a stock-secured loan?

A stock-secured (or securities-backed) loan is a financing arrangement where eligible shares, ETFs, or similar instruments pledge as collateral for cash or a credit structure. You typically remain economically exposed to the pledged positions unless your documents say otherwise—dividend rights, voting, and substitution rules vary and must be read in your closing package. This is distinct from selling: you are borrowing, not necessarily triggering a disposition event for tax purposes (tax treatment is fact-specific; consult a qualified tax advisor).

Programs differ by jurisdiction, exchange, custodian, and lender appetite. Some structures resemble private banking margin with bespoke documentation; others are term loans with fixed schedules. The common thread is that the collateral story drives the credit decision more than a generic consumer credit score—though policies vary.

How it works

1. Intake. You outline liquidity needs, timeline, jurisdiction, and holdings (ticker, exchange, quantity, restrictions).

2. Collateral screening. The desk reviews listing venue, liquidity, volatility haircuts, concentration, and legal transfer mechanics.

3. Indicative terms. You may receive a non-binding summary of advance rate, rate, term, and covenants—subject to final approval.

4. Documentation & closing. Security agreements, account control, or custodian letters execute as required in your market.

5. Funding & monitoring. Proceeds disburse after conditions precedent; collateral is marked over the life of the loan. For a service-level overview, see our how it works page.

Key benefits

  • Liquidity without a forced sale — access cash while keeping core positions when structure and risk appetite allow.
  • Global reach — we evaluate collateral listed across major international venues, not a single domestic menu.
  • Private process — many high-net-worth borrowers prefer documented, discreet financing versus public market sales.
  • Non-recourse structure — our loans limit lender recourse to pledged collateral, protecting your other assets.

Risks or considerations

Securities-backed financing is not risk-free. Market drawdowns can trigger maintenance or margin-style calls depending on your documents. Interest expense is real cash cost. Default remedies may include liquidation of pledged shares. Cross-border collateral adds custody and regulatory complexity. Nothing here is legal or tax advice—review any structure with counsel and your tax professional.

When this strategy makes sense

  • Concentrated equity — founders or executives with a large single-name position need cash for diversification or lifestyle without an immediate block sale.
  • Business liquidity — owners bridge working capital using listed portfolio collateral; see business owners.
  • Opportunistic timing — you believe selling today is the wrong price but still need funds for a time-bound obligation.