2021年2月1日
R&I update - February 2021 – 3 / 4 观点
On 1 January 2021, new Dutch restructuring law Wet Homologatie Onderhands Akkoord (or WHOA) came into effect. Here, we run through what WHOA is and cover the first decisions handed down under the new law.
Although WHOA is best translated in English as the "Court Approval of a Private Composition", it could just as easily be characterised as the Prevention of Insolvency Act. It aims to enable companies that are still (partly) viable to avoid bankruptcy, and provides a mechanism for companies, creditors and shareholders to enter into a binding private plan with court approval.
If a specialist judge approves the proposed plan, it is binding on all creditors – even those who have voted against it. A private plan can be a very effective tool for averting bankruptcy petitions and for the restructuring of companies.
A WHOA procedure starts with a so-called "start-of-procedure declaration" filed with the District Court registry. During the first week of 2021, the first start-of-procedure declarations were filed, and – although the WHOA has only just come into force – the first court decisions have recently been published:
These cases are promising developments and mark the start of a new restructuring era in the Netherlands.
To discuss any of the issues raised in this article in more detail, please reach out to a member of our Restructuring & Insolvency team.
Available in English and Dutch