The book examines the popular credit security instrument of retention of title for suppliers in four important European legal systems. It focuses primarily on the effectiveness of contractual special forms. Particular attention is also paid to the national reforms that have already been initiated or are forthcoming, which fundamentally address the disclosure of true ownership relationships. In most legal systems in Europe, retention of title is still considered a non-possessory security instrument that remains concealed from third parties. This unsatisfactory situation can lead to creditor deception, resulting in repeated losses, especially in the case of buyer insolvency. The author proposes suggestions on how a certain degree of transparency could be ensured in the future. A comparison of the examined jurisdictions as well as a look ahead.