Charge over Intellectual Property

Definition

A security interest granted by a borrower over its intellectual property assets — including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets — as collateral for a loan or other financial obligation. IP charges must typically be registered at both the relevant IP registry (such as the UK Intellectual Property Office or USPTO) and the general security interests registry (Companies House, UCC, or PPSA). The ability to take security over IP is fundamental to intangible asset-backed lending, though enforcement challenges and valuation uncertainty remain key risk factors for lenders.