The perceived problems in the utilization of letters of credit: a comperative study (Ph.D. Thesis)

This thesis addresses the perceived problems in the utilization of letters of credit with respect to the U.K., U.S., the Sudan and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The analysis attempts to provide solutions to these problems. The nature of the letter of credit and its use as a financial device is examined, along with its historical development. Some of the legal aspects reviewed include classification of letters of credit, legal documents required, customary disclaimers, and interpretations of the strict compliance rule. Other topics and problems discussed include: fraud and fraud exception, modes of transfer, credit transferability, al-hawala, bankers' security, Islamic law concepts, murabaha, riba, gharar, and other types of Islamic financial exchanges. Some practical plans for cooperation between conventional and Islamic banks are offered.