German Covered Bonds: Overview and Risk Analysis of Pfandbriefe

The Pfandbrief, a mostly triple-A rated German bank debenture, has become the blueprint of many covered bond models in Europe and beyond. The Pfandbrief is collateralized by long-term assets such as property mortgages or public sector loans as stipulated in the Pfandbrief Act.

With a history that goes back to the 18th century and a high market share in today’s covered bond markets, the German Pfandbrief is the most established covered bond. Until today, no single Pfandbrief has ever defaulte...