Special Purpose Entity

Special Purpose Entity - Financial risk  isolation bodies, vehicles or entities. Oftentimes abbreviated as (SPV/SPE) - Also referred to as a "bankruptcy-remote entity" whose operations are limited to the acquisition and financing of specific assets. The SPV is usually a subsidiary company with an asset/liability structure and legal status that makes its obligations secure even if the parent company goes bankrupt. Oftentimes reeks of  financial statement manipulation, off-balance sheet activities, or used to hide debt.  A subsidiary corporation designed to serve as a counterparty for swaps and other credit sensitive derivative instruments. Also called a "derivatives product company."