Hurdle shares are a special form of financial instrument that combine features of shares and fixed-interest securities. They combine features of shares and fixed-interest securities, offer capital protection and repay the nominal value if certain conditions are met. At the same time, they enable participation in the company's potential earnings.
The term "hurdle" refers to a mechanism that limits losses. If the value of the company falls below certain thresholds, this can lead to early repayments or special conditions. Hurdle shares can therefore offer co-founders or investors security while at the same time allowing them to participate in the startup's growth opportunity.
Furthermore, these instruments are often developed by financial institutions and structurers to achieve specific investment objectives, such as the combination of capital protection and income potential.
The exact structure may vary, so it is important to check the contractual terms and potential risks carefully.