But Aston Martin had to put up something extremely valuable to get the money, nearly 200 trademarks covering its name, winged logo and famous car designs. Even the design of the classic DB6 from the James Bond movie Goldfinger is reportedly included.
BlackRock does not own Aston Martin or its name. But if the struggling car company cannot repay the money, HPS could go after those trademarks. That gives the BlackRock company real power over one of Britain’s most famous brands.
Aston Martin needed the loan because it has roughly $2 billion in debt. Its other lenders, already owed more than $1.7 billion, are furious that the company placed its name and logos behind the new loan. Some are now preparing for a possible court fight over the deal.