Default and Risk Management
What Constitutes Default
You are in default if any of the following occur:
LVR-Related Default
- Your LVR meets or exceeds 85%
- You missed an interest repayment after 30 days grace period
Default Process
Step 1: Default Notice
Vield issues a Default Notice specifying:
- The reason for default
- The outstanding amount owed
- Actions required to remedy the default
- Timeframe to remedy: Typically 30 days
Step 2: Remedy Period
During the remedy period, you can:
- Pay down the loan: Full or partial repayment to bring LVR to 50% or lower
- Pay down the interest: Full repayment of outstanding interest
- Add collateral: Deposit additional BTC or ETH to lower LVR
- Use collateral to pay: Authorize Vield to sell crypto to cover the debt
Step 3: Notice Void Condition
If your LVR improves to 50% or lower during the remedy period (for example, due to crypto price increase), the Default Notice becomes void and your loan returns to good standing. Vield will notify you immediately.
Step 4: Enforcement
If the default is not remedied within the specified timeframe, Vield may:
- Take possession of the Security
- Sell or retain the Security to recover the outstanding debt
- Charge enforcement expenses (collection costs, legal fees on full indemnity basis)
- Terminate your loan agreement
Notice to Sell Option
You may reach out to Vield selling your crypto before your LVR reaches 85%. This prevents default and protects your remaining collateral.
To enable: Contact support@vield.io to set up automatic selling parameters (e.g. sell when LVR reaches 80%).
How to Avoid Default
Proactive Monitoring
- Check LVR daily during volatile markets
- Set up price alerts for BTC on external platforms
- Enable push notifications in the Vield app
Maintain a Buffer
- Borrow less than maximum: Aim for 40-45% LVR instead of 50%
- Keep funds available: Set aside AUD or additional crypto for emergencies
Respond to Warnings
- 65% LVR warning: Consider adding collateral or paying down debt
- 70% LVR warning: Strongly recommended to take action
- 75% LVR repayment notice: Recommend you take action within 1 day
- 85% LVR Loan Default: 30 day window to remedy the loan by bringing the LVR down to 50% (Commercial loans do not have a 30 day window)
Make Timely Payments
- Set calendar reminders for quarterly interest payments
- Automate if possible: Consider setting up recurring transfers
Risk Factors
Market Volatility Risk
Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile. Your collateral value can drop significantly in short periods, rapidly increasing your LVR.
Mitigation: Maintain a low initial LVR (below 45%), monitor daily, and have funds ready to add collateral.
Liquidity Risk
Your crypto is locked as collateral. You cannot access it until the loan is fully repaid, even if you need it for emergencies.
Mitigation: Only use crypto you can afford to lock up. Keep other assets available for emergencies.
Opportunity Cost Risk
If crypto prices rise significantly, your locked collateral appreciates in value, but you cannot sell it without repaying the loan.
Consideration: Weigh the benefit of liquidity now against potential future gains.
Enforcement Expenses
If you default, you may be charged reasonable enforcement expenses including:
- Costs in preserving, maintaining, or selling your collateral
- Collection expenses
- Expenses from dishonored payments
- Legal cost and expenses (on a full indemnity or solicitor-client basis (whichever is higher)
- Internal cost related to your breach or default
- Late repayment fee
These expenses are added to your Total Outstanding Balance. They will not exceed reasonable enforcement expenses.
Getting Help
If you're struggling to manage your loan:
- Contact Vield early: support@vield.io or (02) 9157 9669
- Be proactive: Don't wait until 85% LVR or a Default Notice
- Explore options: Discuss payment arrangements or other solutions
- Seek financial advice: Consider consulting a financial advisor or credit counselor
External Support:
- Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA): www.afca.org.au
- National Debt Helpline: 1800 007 007