How to Spot Fake Trade Finance Offers
How to Spot Fake Trade Finance Offers
Trade finance is a magnet for scammers. Every week, someone claims they can sell you an SBLC at 30–40% of face value or “guarantee” a loan without underwriting. These offers don’t just waste time—they can cost hundreds of thousands in upfront fees or lead to reputational damage with real lenders. This guide cuts through the noise and shows you how to identify fake trade finance offers before you lose money.
How Real Trade Finance Works
- Every facility is subject to underwriting, compliance, and bank appetite.
- Instruments (LCs, SBLCs, BGs) are issued by named banks via SWIFT, not “downloaded” or “server-to-server.”
- There is no secondary market where SBLCs or BGs are sold at a fraction of face value.
- Costs depend on tenor, corridor, and risk—not a flat cheap “buy-in” price.
- Legitimate advisors charge retainers and success fees, not “activation” deposits for phantom instruments.
Red Flags That Scream Fake
Checklist: Is the Offer Real?
What to Demand Before Paying Fees
- Engagement letter with clear scope, signed by the advisor.
- Named banks and sample fee grids.
- KYC package and compliance details.
- Timeline and process steps (intake → underwriting → term sheet → close).
- Invoiced retainer through a regulated entity, not crypto or “personal accounts.”
Work with Verified Trade Finance Advisors
Financely Group only arranges real, underwritten trade finance facilities. No fake paper, no shortcuts, no crypto wallets. If you need a clean process with named banks, we can help.
Request a ConsultationThis guide is for informational purposes. Financely Group does not buy or sell SBLCs or BGs. All mandates are subject to underwriting, compliance checks, and lender approval. Beware of unsolicited offers and any deal that bypasses due diligence.
Get Started With Us
Submit Your Deal & Receive a Proposal Within 1-3 Working Days
Submit your deal using our secure intake form, and receive a quote within 1-3 business days. Existing clients can connect with their relationship manager through our secure web portal.
All submissions are
promptly reviewed, and all communications are conducted through the intake form or the client portal for a seamless and secure process.
Thank you for considering working with us. A nominal fee of US$500 is required upon completion of each form. This fee covers the time and effort we invest in reviewing your submission and crafting a thorough proposal. We receive numerous inquiries and prioritize those that carry this fee, ensuring serious applicants receive prompt attention.
Trade Finance
Tap into solutions like letters of credit, bank guarantees, and payment facilitation. We address the challenge of global transaction risk through structured strategies that foster cross-border growth. Complete the form to unlock streamlined funding aligned with your commercial objectives.
Submit a RequestProject Finance
Access non-recourse funding for infrastructure, renewable energy, or other capital-intensive ventures. We mitigate capital constraints by isolating project assets and focusing on risk management. Provide your details to receive a structure that drives growth and maximizes returns.
Submit a RequestAcquisitions
Secure financing for business or real estate acquisitions. We ease transaction hurdles by reviewing cash flow, synergy opportunities, and exit plans. Complete the form for a customized proposal that supports your strategic investment objectives.
Submit a RequestFor Banks
Financely assists banks facing Basel III pressures by distributing trade finance deals and providing collateral for letters of credit. We reduce capital burdens while preserving client relationships and fostering service expansion. Submit your request to optimize your trade finance offerings.
Submit a RequestOnce we receive your submission, our team will review your information to determine feasibility. If eligible, you will receive a proposal or term sheet within 1–3 business days. Visit our FAQ and Procedure pages for more information.
Disclaimer: Financely provides financing based on due diligence and feasibility. Approval is not guaranteed, and past performance does not predict future outcomes. All terms are subject to review. Financely primarily assists with structuring and distribution. Qualified parties carry out the project if the client approves the proposal.
