A promissory note is a negotiable instrument that contains a written promise to pay a specified sum of money to a named person, their order, or the bearer at a predetermined future date. It must be unconditional, signed by the maker, and delivered to the payee or bearer.
The term 'settle' generally refers to paying an obligation. In legal contexts, it pertains to resolving a dispute short of adjudication or arranging for the disposition of property. In the realm of securities, it means completing a trade between brokers or between a broker and a customer.
