COVID-19 related contracting concerns e-signatures and witnesses, force majeure

This session will cover two key issues in contracts that are topical in the context of the coronavirus outbreak – how to get them executed when signatories are working from home, and what happens when one party cannot perform its side of the bargain.

Whilst electronic signatures have been around for a long time, they have not enjoyed widespread adoption as a result of uncertainties in enforceability cross-border. In the session we will cover the different types of e-signature, how to use them across borders, and some key points to be aware of in adopting their use.

Equally important is ensuring that contracts, once executed, can be performed even in times of stress, and how to deal with claims relating to force majeure. The session will cover what force majeure is, the impact of coronavirus on contracts in the investment management market, how to respond to notices from suppliers claiming force majeure, and other contractual issues to consider when one party is under stress.