Except as otherwise expressly permitted in this Agreement, neither party hereto shall assign its rights or obligations hereunder, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the other party, which written consent will not be unreasonably withheld of delayed. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (a) Purchaser shall have the right to assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement in whole or in part to any affiliate or affiliates of Purchaser, provided that Purchaser shall remain liable for all obligations under this Agreement; and (b) Purchaser may assign this Agreement at the Closing, but not earlier, to any institutional lender or lenders as security for obligations to such lender or lenders in respect of financing arrangements of Purchaser or any affiliates thereof with such lender or lenders.