What Is MT799 and When Is It Used in a Trade Finance Deal?
What is MT799 in trade finance?
MT799 is a SWIFT message for free-format, authenticated bank-to-bank communication. It is often used to verify funds or confirm readiness before issuing an instrument such as an SBLC or DLC. It is not a payment instruction.
In cross-border deals, parties need verified signals before issuing instruments. MT799 provides that signal. It allows banks to exchange authenticated confirmations that clear the path to final delivery and settlement instructions.
What MT799 Actually Does
MT799 is a free-format SWIFT message exchanged between banks. It does not transfer value. Typical uses include:
- Confirming that funds or facilities are available.
- Stating intent to issue an SBLC, BG, or DLC.
- Pre-verifying terms before final SWIFT delivery such as MT760 or MT700.
- Sharing reference numbers and operational instructions prior to settlement.
When Is MT799 Required?
- Seller asks for verified funds before shipment under open account or documentary terms.
- Bank requests assurance before taking counterparty risk.
- Lender needs to confirm readiness to issue an SBLC or DLC subject to conditions precedent.
- Trade partner requires written bank-to-bank assurance before releasing goods or documents.
MT799 vs MT199
| Message |
Purpose |
Typical Use |
| MT199 |
Generic free-format correspondence |
Informal notices or pre-advice where no formal confirmation is required |
| MT799 |
Authenticated confirmation or intent |
Formal bank-to-bank confirmation when an instrument or settlement is imminent |
MT199 is general correspondence. MT799 is a formal, authenticated signal tied to upcoming issuance or settlement.
Is MT799 a Commitment?
MT799 does not move funds and is not an instrument. It is authenticated through SWIFT and reflects the sending bank’s position at that time. It is trusted as a step in the issuance sequence, not as final settlement.
Misuses and Red Flags
- “Monetize MT799” is fake. MT799 is a message, not collateral or an asset.
- “Block MT799 for yield” is fake. Returns come from instruments or cash flows, not from messaging.
- Templates or screenshots are not evidence. Only live bank-to-bank SWIFT delivery counts.
How We Use MT799 in Execution
We coordinate MT799 as part of real transactions. Typical sequence: agree terms in a term sheet, align fields and references, exchange MT799 between regulated counterparties, then issue the final instrument and proceed to settlement.
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Disclaimer: Financely acts as advisor and arranger via regulated partners. We do not custody client funds. All messaging and instrument issuance are subject to underwriting, KYC, AML, sanctions checks, legal documentation, and counterparty approvals. Professional audience only.