A contract note is a legal document that is commonly used in the financial services industry. It is a confirmation of a trade between a buyer and a seller of securities. The contract note is issued by the broker or dealer to both the buyer and the seller after a transaction is completed.
The main purpose of the contract note is to provide evidence of a transaction and to ensure that both parties are aware of the details of the trade. The information included in a contract note typically includes the names and addresses of the buyer and seller, the type and quantity of securities bought or sold, the price agreed upon, and the date of the transaction.
From a legal standpoint, contract notes are important because they provide evidence of a binding agreement between the parties involved. In the event of a dispute, the contract note can be used as evidence in court.
In addition to providing legal evidence of a transaction, contract notes also serve as a record-keeping tool. Brokers and dealers are required to maintain records of all transactions they facilitate, and contract notes are an essential part of this record-keeping process.
For investors, contract notes serve as a form of protection. By receiving a contract note, investors can verify that a trade has been executed as agreed upon and can ensure that they are not being charged incorrect amounts or fees.
Overall, contract notes are an essential part of the financial services industry, providing evidence of transactions and serving as a record-keeping tool. As an investor, it is important to understand the legal definition of a contract note and to keep copies of all contract notes received as proof of trades executed.