If a counterparty consistently includes an overly broad 'force majeure' clause with minimal notice requirements, what specific insight does this provide about their general risk tolerance and operational priorities?
A 'force majeure' clause is a contractual provision that excuses one or both parties from fulfilling their contractual obligations when an unforeseen event, beyond their reasonable control, makes performance impossible or impracticable. When a counterparty consistently includes an overly broad force majeure clause, it means the clause covers a wide range of events, often vaguely defined or broadly categorized, beyond what is typically considered a catastrophic and truly unavoidable event. 'Minimal notice requirements' refer to a very short period within which the party invoking force majeure must inform their counterparty after the event occurs, providing little time for the counterparty to react or plan for the disruption. This combination provides specific insight into their general risk tolerance and operational priorities.