Convertible Note
A short-term debt instrument used in early-stage startup financing that converts into equity (usually preferred stock) upon the occurrence of a qualifying event, typically the next priced funding round. Convertible notes include terms such as an interest rate, maturity date, valuation cap, and discount rate that determine how the debt converts into shares. They allow startups to raise capital quickly without establishing a formal company valuation, which is particularly useful at the earliest stages.
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