MT199 is one of the most quoted SWIFT messages in informal trade finance conversations. It is also one of the most misunderstood. Many people repeat that an MT199 "proves the funding is real" without knowing what sits behind the message or what it can actually support in a transaction.
In reality, MT199 is a free format, informational SWIFT message. It can pass on useful context between banks but it carries no binding payment obligation and no guarantee. Used correctly, it helps coordinate real deals. Used carelessly, it becomes marketing wallpaper for offers that never close.
MT199 sits inside the SWIFT category for customer transfers and related messages. It is a free format notice that banks use when no other structured message type fits. The text is written in plain fields agreed by the sending and receiving banks.
In trade and structured deals, MT199 is often used to:
It is useful inside the process, but on its own it is simply a communication. It is not a payment instruction, not a guarantee and not a binding commitment to fund.
A lot of confusion drops away once you separate legitimate uses of MT199 from things it can never support.
In short, MT199 carries information between banks. It can be helpful for coordination but remains informal from a funding perspective.
Any proposal that treats MT199 as an asset is misrepresenting what the SWIFT format is designed for.
If someone offers you an "MT199 showing funds are in place," the key question is what follows. Without a binding message such as MT799, MT760 or a documentary credit, you are looking at a friendly notice, not at a funding line.
In real trade finance execution, MT199 tends to appear in early or intermediate steps. It gives both banks a way to share context without locking themselves into a formal undertaking.
In all of these cases, MT199 supports communication but does not replace the need for binding instruments once parties are ready to commit.
MT199 is attractive to unqualified intermediaries because it sounds technical and is easier to obtain than a guarantee or SBLC. That leads to sales language that overstates what this message can do.
Real banks do not lend or ship cargo on the back of an MT199 alone. They may take comfort from the fact that another bank is engaged, but final decisions sit on due diligence, credit approvals and binding SWIFT messages or legal documents.
At Financely, MT199 is treated strictly as a communication tool. We use it when there is a genuine transaction in view, and only between regulated counterparties that already have commercial terms on the table.
Typical use cases include:
The real execution still depends on underwriting, legal documentation and final SWIFT issuance of instruments such as MT760 or MT700. MT199 supports that process but never replaces it.
Not on its own. MT199 can state that a client is known to a bank or that the bank intends to proceed, but it does not create a binding obligation to disburse funds. Proof of funding comes from final credit approvals, signed documents and binding SWIFT messages that move or commit value.
Serious counterparties rarely accept MT199 alone as proof of funds. They may view it as a positive sign, but they will still want to see financial statements, account evidence and, where relevant, a guarantee, SBLC or letter of credit that carries clear terms and conditions.
No. MT199 messages move between banks on the SWIFT network. Your company is the underlying client, but the message is addressed to your bank, not to you. Your relationship manager can confirm whether an MT199 has been sent or received in connection with your transaction.
If your counterparties are asking for proof of funds or bank comfort, you need more than a generic MT199. You need a structured sequence that ends in real instruments such as DLCs, SBLCs or funded facilities that can actually support trade and project execution.
Share your transaction outline and we will help you coordinate genuine issuance, from early communication through to final SWIFT delivery and settlement.
Submit Your DealDisclaimer: Financely acts as advisor and arranger via regulated partners. We do not custody client funds. All SWIFT messaging, instruments and funding lines are subject to underwriting, credit approval, KYC, AML, sanctions screening, legal documentation and counterparty approvals. This page is for a professional audience only and is not an offer of credit, guarantees or securities in any jurisdiction.
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