Unconscionable Conduct in Commercial Transactions

Book excerpt: This book looks at the historical use of allegations of unconscionable conduct within the context of independent trade finance instruments, such as letters of credit and demand guarantees. It makes a detailed survey of the law of unconscionable conduct, the complexities of the doctrine of independence, and the circumstances where the former prevails to provide relief from abuse. It also completes a wide–ranging, sequential audit of the relevant case law in both Singapore and Australia where unconscionable conduct was alleged in independent instrument matters. The audit examines every case along the lines of precedent and details the contribution each makes to the law. Focussing on the jurisdictions of Singapore, Australia, and Malaysia, the book lays out the case for the broad adoption of unconscionable conduct in this domain. With its premises founded in precedent and statute, it describes the elements of independent instrument unconscionability as already laid down in law and links it to international banking practice.