Key points
- Without notice applications for recognition orders carry the obligation of full and frank disclosure to the English court in relation to the effect such orders may have on third parties.
- Failure to provide full and frank disclosure may have cost consequences.
The facts
Key Point
The court adjourned a bankruptcy hearing on the basis that a Spanish court sanctioned liquidation plan for a group of companies in which the debtor had an interest might release value for creditors.
The Facts
High Court says "Yes"
Need to know
In a win for creditors of insolvent companies, on 10 December 2015 the High Court determined that the obligation of a liquidator under section 254(1)(d) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 (Cth) (1936 Act) to retain sufficient funds to pay tax on assets realised during the winding up only arises after a tax assessment has been made. If the funds are distributed prior to a tax assessment being made, then the obligation does not arise.
Key Points
- Receivers only owe a duty of care to those parties who hold an interest in the equity of redemption.
- Upon the making of a bankruptcy order, the bankrupt ceases to participate in any such interest and the equity of redemption vests in the trustee in bankruptcy.
The Facts
The "running account" defence to an unfair preference claim is a fragile flower. In a recent decision, the Queensland Court of Appeal has reminded solvent counterparties that suspension of a customer's trading account will probably break the "running account", exposing a solvent counterparty to greater unfair preference risk.
Need to know
Key Point
Judgment sets out the rationale behind validating three payments made by a Company after the presentation of a winding up petition.
The Facts
This was the third application made by Sahaviriya Steel Industries UK Limited (the “Company”) in connection with payments made that would require validation under s127 Insolvency Act 1986. The payments were necessary to keep part of its business going pending discussions on sale or restructuring.
The Decision
Key Point
Judgement provides detailed guidance on administrators making distributions in relation to EU incorporated companies.
The Facts
A recent decision of the NSW Court of Appeal demonstrates the importance for security trustees tocarefully consider and understand their obligations in an enforcement scenario.
Need to know
The reform agenda for Australia's restructuring and insolvency regime has now received the views of the Productivity Commission, in the context of its wider review of Business Set-Up, Transfer and Closure. A draft report published on 21 May 2015 sets out a number of recommendations that, while mostly not new to the reform agenda, will be relevant to restructuring and insolvency professionals in the not-too-distant future.