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A Share Pledge Agreement is a crucial security document in German financing transactions where shares in a company are provided as collateral. This document is commonly used in acquisition financing, corporate lending, and project finance transactions where lenders require security over the shares of key operating companies or subsidiaries. The agreement must be carefully structured to comply with German law requirements, particularly regarding creation and perfection of the pledge, which vary depending on whether the shares are in a GmbH (limited liability company) or AG (stock corporation). The document typically follows establishment of a primary obligation (such as a loan agreement) and includes detailed provisions on pledge creation, perfection requirements, voting rights, dividend rights, and enforcement procedures. Key German legislation governing these agreements includes the Civil Code (BGB), Stock Corporation Act (AktG), and Limited Liability Companies Act (GmbH-Gesetz).

1. Parties: Identification of the Pledgor (share owner), Pledgee (beneficiary of the pledge), and the Company whose shares are being pledged

2. Background: Context of the share pledge, typically referencing the underlying obligation (e.g., loan agreement) that this pledge is securing

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement, including definition of Pledged Shares, Secured Obligations, and Enforcement Event

4. Object of Pledge: Detailed description of the shares being pledged, including number, class, nominal value, and percentage of total share capital

5. Creation of Pledge: Legal mechanics of creating the pledge, including any necessary formalities under German law

6. Representations and Warranties: Pledgor's confirmations regarding ownership, authority, and absence of encumbrances on the shares

7. Perfection Requirements: Steps required to perfect the pledge under German law, including registration requirements

8. Voting Rights and Dividends: Provisions regarding exercise of voting rights and receipt of dividends during the pledge period

9. Enforcement: Circumstances and procedures for enforcing the pledge, including sale or appropriation of shares

10. Further Assurance: Obligations to execute additional documents or take further actions if needed

11. Notices: Communication requirements between parties

12. Governing Law and Jurisdiction: Confirmation of German law governance and jurisdiction for disputes