Method of export trade financing, especially when dealing in capital goods (which have long payment periods) or with high risk countries. In forfeiting, a bank advances cash to an exporter against invoices or promissory notes guaranteed by the importer's bank. The amount advanced is always 'without recourse' to the exporter, and is less than the invoice or note amount as it is discounted by the bank. The discount rates depends on the terms of the invoice/note and the level of the associated risk.