Debt, credit & capital structure · Core
Default
Also called: payment default
ELI5
Failure to meet a debt obligation or other specified condition.
Used in conversation
“Can we state who receives the right created by default, and when it applies?”
Pitch context
You will see “Default” in financial models, budgets, board packs and investor materials when the discussion reaches debt, credit & capital structure.
Why it matters: In debt, credit & capital structure, a loose definition can change rights, obligations, approval, disclosure or enforceability.
Caution
Meaning, enforceability and required process vary by jurisdiction and agreement; this definition is not legal advice.
Sources & evidence · 5
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- IFRS Foundation — IFRS GlossaryDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission — Small Business Capital Formation GlossaryDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- Financial Accounting Standards Board — FASB Accounting Standards CodificationSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Small Business Administration — Break-even pointSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission — Non-GAAP Financial Measures — Compliance and Disclosure InterpretationsSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16