Glossary of Financial Terms - O

Offering Memorandum

A "prosperous-like" document providing detailed descriptions of a company's past, present, and prospective business operations. It is normally prepared for the use of potential purchasers of securities offered under the seed capital or private placement prospectus exemptions.

Operating Lease

One where the risks and benefits, as well as ownership, stays with the lessor.

Operating Line of Credit

A bank's commitment to make loans to a particular borrower up to a specified maximum for a specified period, usually one year.

Operating Loan

A loan advanced under an operating line of credit.

Option

Right to buy or sell a specified property at a specified amount at some time in the future.

Overdraft

The amount by which a check or other payments exceeds the funds on deposits.

Overdraft Protection

Is an agreement with the Bank or Financial Institution to cover overdrafts. This service will typically involve a fee and be limited to a pre-set maximum amount.

Overdraft System

System whereby a depositor may write cheques in excess of the balance, with the bank automatically extending a loan to cover the shortage.