| a written authorization or order to pay a specified sum of money to a specified person. |
| bill of exchange n. pl. bills of exchange Abbr. B/E A written order directing that a specified sum of money be paid to a specified person. |
Bill of Exchange
A non-interest-bearing written order used primarily in international trade that binds one party to pay a fixed sum of money to another party at a predetermined future date.
Investopedia Commentary
Bills of exchange are similar to checks and promissory notes. They can be drawn by individuals or banks and are generally transferable by endorsements. The difference between a promissory note and a bill of exchange is that this product is transferable and can bind one party to pay a third party that was not involved in its creation. If these bills are issued by a bank, they can be referred to as bank drafts. If they are issued by individuals, they can be referred to as trade drafts.
Related Links
Promissory Notes Can Be Less Than Promised
See also: Allonge, Check, Promissory Note
