Bonds Articles
Tax-Advantaged Income From Muni Closed-End Funds and ETFs
August 2026 by John Deysher
Closed-end muni bond funds or muni bond ETFs may make sense for those in high tax brackets in search of income.
August 2026 by John Deysher
Closed-end muni bond funds or muni bond ETFs may make sense for those in high tax brackets in search of income.
A Beginner’s Guide to Investing in Bonds
September 2025 by Omar Beirat
Bonds can offer a reliable way to earn portfolio income, reduce the risk of losing money and build long-term financial stability.
September 2025 by Omar Beirat
Bonds can offer a reliable way to earn portfolio income, reduce the risk of losing money and build long-term financial stability.
Identifying Future Economic Changes With the Yield Curve
July 2025 by Cynthia McLaughlin
A positive, upward-sloping yield curve is a sign of economic expansion. A negative, inverted yield curve is a harbinger of economic contraction.
July 2025 by Cynthia McLaughlin
A positive, upward-sloping yield curve is a sign of economic expansion. A negative, inverted yield curve is a harbinger of economic contraction.
Building Bond Ladders With Mutual Funds and ETFs
April 2025 by Cynthia McLaughlin
Quasi-bond ladders can be created with mutual funds or ETFs instead of individual bonds by choosing funds with differing durations.
April 2025 by Cynthia McLaughlin
Quasi-bond ladders can be created with mutual funds or ETFs instead of individual bonds by choosing funds with differing durations.
Changing Dynamics Portend Greater Volatility in U.S. Treasuries
December 2024 by Omar Beirat
A shift in investor composition for U.S. Treasuries has significantly increased price sensitivity among buyers, altering Treasury yields and market dynamics.
December 2024 by Omar Beirat
A shift in investor composition for U.S. Treasuries has significantly increased price sensitivity among buyers, altering Treasury yields and market dynamics.
Bond Strategies for a Shifting Interest Rate Environment
September 2024 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Bonds can help you achieve your financial goals by providing reliable cash flow, protecting your principal and creating growth through compounding interest.
September 2024 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Bonds can help you achieve your financial goals by providing reliable cash flow, protecting your principal and creating growth through compounding interest.
Bond Market’s Inflation Expectations Near Fed’s Target
September 2024 by Charles Rotblut
Federal fund futures were pricing in a high probability of an interest rate cut being announced following the September Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting as we went to press.
September 2024 by Charles Rotblut
Federal fund futures were pricing in a high probability of an interest rate cut being announced following the September Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting as we went to press.
Yield Shift Increases Relative Attractiveness of Bonds
June 2024 by Charles Rotblut
The Treasury bond’s yield was approaching a full percentage point above the earnings yield for the S&P 500 index as of early May 2024.
June 2024 by Charles Rotblut
The Treasury bond’s yield was approaching a full percentage point above the earnings yield for the S&P 500 index as of early May 2024.
How AAII Members Have Responded to Interest Rate Hikes
August 2023 by Charles Rotblut, Anine Sus, Grace Malone, Lili DeFilippis, Andrew Gomes
A comparison of popular sources for portfolio income now compared to August 2020, before rates began to rise.
August 2023 by Charles Rotblut, Anine Sus, Grace Malone, Lili DeFilippis, Andrew Gomes
A comparison of popular sources for portfolio income now compared to August 2020, before rates began to rise.
I Bond Yields Are Down From Their Peak
June 2023 by Charles Rotblut
How composite rates for Series I bonds issued within the last five years have evolved.
June 2023 by Charles Rotblut
How composite rates for Series I bonds issued within the last five years have evolved.
Diversify Tax-Exempt Interest Income With Muni National Bond Funds
March 2023 by John Bajkowski
If you are in a higher tax bracket and your portfolio generates significant income from fixed-income investments such as bonds that are not held in tax-deferred accounts, then you might consider using tax-exempt income sources such as municipal bond funds.
March 2023 by John Bajkowski
If you are in a higher tax bracket and your portfolio generates significant income from fixed-income investments such as bonds that are not held in tax-deferred accounts, then you might consider using tax-exempt income sources such as municipal bond funds.
Tips About Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities
November 2022 by Brian Haughey
TIPS can be useful in protecting against unanticipated inflation, although they do not eliminate interest rate risk entirely.
November 2022 by Brian Haughey
TIPS can be useful in protecting against unanticipated inflation, although they do not eliminate interest rate risk entirely.
Fixed-Income Risks and Opportunities in a Rising-Rate Environment
September 2022 by Matthew Crouse
Given recent interest rate increases, many bonds and preferred stocks are now offering attractive yields.
September 2022 by Matthew Crouse
Given recent interest rate increases, many bonds and preferred stocks are now offering attractive yields.
Online Exclusive: What Is the Yield Curve?
August 2022 by Matthew Bajkowski
The yield curve of U.S. Treasuries is a beneficial tool for investors in that it may identify major potential changes in the economy ahead of their occurrence. It is also free to the public and easy to use.
August 2022 by Matthew Bajkowski
The yield curve of U.S. Treasuries is a beneficial tool for investors in that it may identify major potential changes in the economy ahead of their occurrence. It is also free to the public and easy to use.
Should You Buy Bonds When Interest Rates Are Rising?
August 2022 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Whether interest rates are rising or falling, a custom ladder of high-quality bonds will produce a consistent cash flow.
August 2022 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Whether interest rates are rising or falling, a custom ladder of high-quality bonds will produce a consistent cash flow.
Yield Curve Inverted, but Not Yet Signaling a Recession
August 2022 by Charles Rotblut
The yield curve is a closely watched harbinger of recessions. Inverted yield curves have previously preceded most recessions over the past 50 years.
August 2022 by Charles Rotblut
The yield curve is a closely watched harbinger of recessions. Inverted yield curves have previously preceded most recessions over the past 50 years.
Environmental Regulation Uncertainty Pushes Bond Yields Up
July 2022 by Jack Gilleland
Uncertainty about future environmental regulatory changes is raising the perceived risk of bonds from issuers with poor environmental profiles or high carbon emissions.
July 2022 by Jack Gilleland
Uncertainty about future environmental regulatory changes is raising the perceived risk of bonds from issuers with poor environmental profiles or high carbon emissions.
Breakeven Rates Signaling a Potential Slowing of Inflation
June 2022 by AAII Staff
As of mid-May 2022, expectations for future inflation show short-term signs of having peaked.
June 2022 by AAII Staff
As of mid-May 2022, expectations for future inflation show short-term signs of having peaked.
Do Convertible Bonds Fit Into Your Portfolio?
June 2022 by Cara Scatizzi, Jenna Brashear
Convertible bonds have both bond-like and stock-like features. Issuing convertible bonds is a way to offer a low coupon yield, but entice investors with a value-added component.
June 2022 by Cara Scatizzi, Jenna Brashear
Convertible bonds have both bond-like and stock-like features. Issuing convertible bonds is a way to offer a low coupon yield, but entice investors with a value-added component.
Online Exclusive: Understanding the Breakeven Inflation Rate
June 2022 by Matthew Bajkowski
The breakeven inflation rate is a helpful guide for determining minimal rates of return required to maintain wealth in real terms.
June 2022 by Matthew Bajkowski
The breakeven inflation rate is a helpful guide for determining minimal rates of return required to maintain wealth in real terms.
Why I Bonds Have Appeal When Inflation Is Rising
June 2022 by Charles Meyer
With part of its interest rate based on the rate of inflation, Series I savings bonds might be worth a look in the current environment.
June 2022 by Charles Meyer
With part of its interest rate based on the rate of inflation, Series I savings bonds might be worth a look in the current environment.
Calculating the Tax-Equivalent Yield of Muni Bonds
March 2022 by Charles Rotblut
The quoted yield on a municipal bond may be understated relative to that of a similar corporate bond once taxes are factored in. A simple formula lets you determine which yield is more attractive.
March 2022 by Charles Rotblut
The quoted yield on a municipal bond may be understated relative to that of a similar corporate bond once taxes are factored in. A simple formula lets you determine which yield is more attractive.
Online Exclusive: Understanding Bond Yields
March 2022 by Matthew Bajkowski
The stream of income that a bond or bond fund provides is characterized as its yield, but the term has different meanings for the two types of securities.
March 2022 by Matthew Bajkowski
The stream of income that a bond or bond fund provides is characterized as its yield, but the term has different meanings for the two types of securities.
The Benefits and Risks of Intermediate Bond Funds
March 2022 by Matthew Bajkowski
Intermediate-term bonds are less sensitive to interest rate changes than long-term bonds and typically provide a greater yield than short-term bonds.
March 2022 by Matthew Bajkowski
Intermediate-term bonds are less sensitive to interest rate changes than long-term bonds and typically provide a greater yield than short-term bonds.
Guidelines for Selecting Bonds and Cash-Like Instruments
September 2021 by Charles Rotblut
Key characteristics when analyzing bonds, choosing between bonds and bond funds and the role of laddering.
September 2021 by Charles Rotblut
Key characteristics when analyzing bonds, choosing between bonds and bond funds and the role of laddering.
The Bond Market's Expectations for Inflation
July 2021 by Charles Rotblut
The breakeven rate reflects the bond market’s expectation for future inflation. While breakeven rates cannot accurately predict what will occur in the future, they can provide insights.
July 2021 by Charles Rotblut
The breakeven rate reflects the bond market’s expectation for future inflation. While breakeven rates cannot accurately predict what will occur in the future, they can provide insights.
Using Bond Ladders and Income Annuities for Retirement Income
July 2021 by Aaron Brask
A discussion of two specific tools investors can use in retirement to generate fixed cash flows and manage relevant risks.
July 2021 by Aaron Brask
A discussion of two specific tools investors can use in retirement to generate fixed cash flows and manage relevant risks.
Inside Convertible Bonds: An Attractive Risk/Return Tradeoff
June 2021 by Brian Haughey
Convertible bonds offer some protection from interest-rate risk, along with the potential for equity-like returns with lower volatility, in return for a lower coupon.
June 2021 by Brian Haughey
Convertible bonds offer some protection from interest-rate risk, along with the potential for equity-like returns with lower volatility, in return for a lower coupon.
What Are Bond Ratings and Why Do They Change?
March 2021 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
There are many factors considered in creating a bond rating, and the criteria will differ based upon the type of entity being rated.
March 2021 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
There are many factors considered in creating a bond rating, and the criteria will differ based upon the type of entity being rated.
The Risks of Investing in Bonds
May 2020 by Brian Haughey
Living in an unprecedented interest-rate environment, bond investors probably face more interest-rate, credit and liquidity risks than ever before.
May 2020 by Brian Haughey
Living in an unprecedented interest-rate environment, bond investors probably face more interest-rate, credit and liquidity risks than ever before.
How Big of a Concern Is the Inverted Yield Curve and Negative Interest Rates?
November 2019 by Brian Haughey
Inverted yield curves can precede a recession, and negative interest rates remove a traditional income source for risk-averse investors. Find out if you need to take action.
November 2019 by Brian Haughey
Inverted yield curves can precede a recession, and negative interest rates remove a traditional income source for risk-averse investors. Find out if you need to take action.
A Fresh Look at Defined-Maturity Bond Funds
September 2019 by Charles Rotblut
Defined-maturity funds seek to strike a middle ground between bonds and bond funds: They mature on a specified date and return capital to shareholders, but they are also professionally managed and benefit from economies of scale.
September 2019 by Charles Rotblut
Defined-maturity funds seek to strike a middle ground between bonds and bond funds: They mature on a specified date and return capital to shareholders, but they are also professionally managed and benefit from economies of scale.
Challenge Your Perspective on Bonds
July 2019 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
A look at an unconventional bond strategy that focuses on cash flow and is designed to reduce risk, taxes, fees and bad timing.
July 2019 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
A look at an unconventional bond strategy that focuses on cash flow and is designed to reduce risk, taxes, fees and bad timing.
Bond Yields' Role as a Recession Warning Signal
May 2019 by Charles Rotblut, Campbell Harvey
An interview with the professor who developed the yield curve model for forecasting recessions.
May 2019 by Charles Rotblut, Campbell Harvey
An interview with the professor who developed the yield curve model for forecasting recessions.
Bond Convexity: What Is It, and Why Should You Care?
May 2018 by Brian Haughey
A bond’s price rises at an increasing rate as its yield falls, but its price falls at a decreasing rate as its yield increases.
May 2018 by Brian Haughey
A bond’s price rises at an increasing rate as its yield falls, but its price falls at a decreasing rate as its yield increases.
Closed-End Bond Funds Versus Individual Bonds: A Case Study
April 2017 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Closed-end bonds may look attractive based on their yields and discounts to net asset value, but there are pitfalls to watch out for.
April 2017 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Closed-end bonds may look attractive based on their yields and discounts to net asset value, but there are pitfalls to watch out for.
What You Need to Know About Bond Yields to Determine Your Returns
October 2016 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Current yield is simplistic to calculate, but other measures of yield can help you make better investment decisions.
October 2016 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Current yield is simplistic to calculate, but other measures of yield can help you make better investment decisions.
Interest Rate Sensitivity and Bond Pricing
April 2016 by Brian Haughey
A set of easy-to-calculate formulas can reveal how much a bond’s price will change in reaction to an increase or decrease in yield.
April 2016 by Brian Haughey
A set of easy-to-calculate formulas can reveal how much a bond’s price will change in reaction to an increase or decrease in yield.
What Bond Calls Mean for Your Cash Flow
April 2016 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Call provisions allow an issuer to redeem a bond. The type of call provision and the yield to call should be considered before purchase.
April 2016 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Call provisions allow an issuer to redeem a bond. The type of call provision and the yield to call should be considered before purchase.
Bond Pricing Made Simple
November 2015 by Brian Haughey
A bond’s price is the value of expected cash flows. Learn how to calculate traditional, perpetuity and zero-coupon prices.
November 2015 by Brian Haughey
A bond’s price is the value of expected cash flows. Learn how to calculate traditional, perpetuity and zero-coupon prices.
Understanding What Bond Market
Liquidity Means for Your Portfolio
October 2015 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
The ability to buy and sell with ease can be transitory and depends on both the market for the asset and the size of the transaction.
October 2015 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
The ability to buy and sell with ease can be transitory and depends on both the market for the asset and the size of the transaction.
Liquidity: The Hidden Risk in the Municipal Market
January 2015 by Nicholos Venditti
Relatively low liquidity with infrequent trading activity for many muni bonds places an importance on portfolio structure and credit quality.
January 2015 by Nicholos Venditti
Relatively low liquidity with infrequent trading activity for many muni bonds places an importance on portfolio structure and credit quality.
Bond Resources
October 2013 by CI Staff
Where to go to get in-depth data and useful tools for researching bonds.
October 2013 by CI Staff
Where to go to get in-depth data and useful tools for researching bonds.
Defined-Maturity Funds: A Bond Alternative With Compromises
October 2013 by Charles Rotblut
These bond funds terminate near preset dates and can be laddered, but have caveats that should be understood.
October 2013 by Charles Rotblut
These bond funds terminate near preset dates and can be laddered, but have caveats that should be understood.
Should You Maintain an Allocation to Bonds When Current Rates Are Low?
May 2013 by Craig Israelsen
Historical data shows an advantage to keeping bonds in a diversified portfolio even when interest rates rise sharply.
May 2013 by Craig Israelsen
Historical data shows an advantage to keeping bonds in a diversified portfolio even when interest rates rise sharply.
Why Buy Bonds If Interest Rates Will Rise?
May 2013 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Starting a bond ladder creates income now and produces cash flow that can be used to reinvest when interest rates are rising.
May 2013 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Starting a bond ladder creates income now and produces cash flow that can be used to reinvest when interest rates are rising.
Using Bonds Instead of Stocks for Portfolio Income
October 2012 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Maximizing consistent and predictable cash flow is key for meeting retirement objectives. Municipal bonds can help investors accomplish this.
October 2012 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Maximizing consistent and predictable cash flow is key for meeting retirement objectives. Municipal bonds can help investors accomplish this.
Bond Strategies for Those Fearful of Inflation
June 2012 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Stronger inflation is the upside case for investors using bond ladders and holding their bonds to maturity, because of higher interest rates to reinvest into.
June 2012 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Stronger inflation is the upside case for investors using bond ladders and holding their bonds to maturity, because of higher interest rates to reinvest into.
Notes on the Current State of the Muni Bond Market
May 2012 by Annette Thau
Muni bond yields are reasonably attractive relative to Treasury yields, and fears about a rise in defaults remain totally misplaced.
May 2012 by Annette Thau
Muni bond yields are reasonably attractive relative to Treasury yields, and fears about a rise in defaults remain totally misplaced.
The Diversity of Municipal Bonds and What You Need to Know
About Risks
May 2012 by Robert Doty
The bond market is split between traditional secure securities and those that are riskier, such as bonds tied to private profit-making or nonprofit borrowers.
May 2012 by Robert Doty
The bond market is split between traditional secure securities and those that are riskier, such as bonds tied to private profit-making or nonprofit borrowers.
How to Make Money From Bonds
October 2011 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Utilizing a bond ladder while paying attention to the yield curve can help you create a portfolio for achieving your financial goals
October 2011 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Utilizing a bond ladder while paying attention to the yield curve can help you create a portfolio for achieving your financial goals
Seeking Tax-Free Income From Closed-End Funds
June 2011 by John Deysher, Michael Walters
Closed-end municipal bond funds provide income that is exempt from federal taxes, but investors should be selective when choosing among them.
June 2011 by John Deysher, Michael Walters
Closed-end municipal bond funds provide income that is exempt from federal taxes, but investors should be selective when choosing among them.
Tug of War in the Bond Market
June 2011 by Marilyn Cohen
Investors worried about higher interest rates should be preemptive. Consider lowering duration and looking at variable-rate bonds.
June 2011 by Marilyn Cohen
Investors worried about higher interest rates should be preemptive. Consider lowering duration and looking at variable-rate bonds.
Corporate Bond Analysis: What to Consider
May 2011 by Jason Brady
Corporate bond investors need to look beyond yield and focus on an issuer’s character, capacity, collateral and conditions.
May 2011 by Jason Brady
Corporate bond investors need to look beyond yield and focus on an issuer’s character, capacity, collateral and conditions.
Bond Resources
April 2011 by CI Staff
The three best websites for information and data on corporate, municipal and government bonds.
April 2011 by CI Staff
The three best websites for information and data on corporate, municipal and government bonds.
How Safe Are Municipal Bonds?
March 2011 by Annette Thau
The odds of default are low for municipal bonds, but investors do have to contend with interest rate, headline and new bond issuance risks.
March 2011 by Annette Thau
The odds of default are low for municipal bonds, but investors do have to contend with interest rate, headline and new bond issuance risks.
TIPS and the Nature of Inflation Protection
December 2010 by Daniel W. Wallick, Jill Marshall
The total return of Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) is influenced both by trailing inflation and expectations for future inflation.
December 2010 by Daniel W. Wallick, Jill Marshall
The total return of Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) is influenced both by trailing inflation and expectations for future inflation.
The Muni Market Turmoil Continues: What's Going on and How to Respond
January 2009 by Annette Thau
There have been a number of very bad years in the municipal bond market. But 2008 is in a league of its own--without any doubt, the worst year ever in the municipal bond market. And the most likely outlook is continued volatility. What lies behind the current declines, and a look at what actions investors may want to consider.
January 2009 by Annette Thau
There have been a number of very bad years in the municipal bond market. But 2008 is in a league of its own--without any doubt, the worst year ever in the municipal bond market. And the most likely outlook is continued volatility. What lies behind the current declines, and a look at what actions investors may want to consider.
Turmoil in the Marketplace: What's Going on With Municipals?
May 2008 by Annette Thau
Losses from the current credit market crisis have affected bond insurance firms--firms that guarantee municipal bonds--and placed the entire municipal bond market under a cloud. There has been little clarity about how the problems affect the bonds under guarantee. Shedding some light on what's going on in the muni markets.
May 2008 by Annette Thau
Losses from the current credit market crisis have affected bond insurance firms--firms that guarantee municipal bonds--and placed the entire municipal bond market under a cloud. There has been little clarity about how the problems affect the bonds under guarantee. Shedding some light on what's going on in the muni markets.
How to Buy Individual Bonds: A Fixed-Income Toolkit
February 2008 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Once you make the choice to invest in individual bonds, the question is: How do you buy them? Guidelines for evaluating Web sites and locating a bond broker.
February 2008 by Hildy Richelson, Stan Richelson
Once you make the choice to invest in individual bonds, the question is: How do you buy them? Guidelines for evaluating Web sites and locating a bond broker.
EE Savings Bonds
November 2007 by AAII Staff
EE Savings Bonds are low-risk, U.S. government-backed securities. Here's what you need to know before investing.
November 2007 by AAII Staff
EE Savings Bonds are low-risk, U.S. government-backed securities. Here's what you need to know before investing.
An Investor's Guide to Inflation-Protected Securities
May 2007 by Annette Thau
In 1997, Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities were introduced to help protect investors against the erosion of purchasing power. One year later the concept was extended to the savings bond program. A closer look at how these securities have performed, and how they work.
May 2007 by Annette Thau
In 1997, Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities were introduced to help protect investors against the erosion of purchasing power. One year later the concept was extended to the savings bond program. A closer look at how these securities have performed, and how they work.
An Investor's Guide to Closed-End Muni Funds
September 2006 by Annette Thau
The main promise of closed-end municipal bond funds is higher yield, but that higher yield comes at a cost of higher risk. What you should know about investing in closed-end muni funds
September 2006 by Annette Thau
The main promise of closed-end municipal bond funds is higher yield, but that higher yield comes at a cost of higher risk. What you should know about investing in closed-end muni funds
Cutting Through the Bond Market Fog When Shopping for Munis
May 2006 by Annette Thau
Trying to buy or sell municipal bonds? If so, you may need some help cutting through the fog of bond market pricing and trading. Shopping for bonds is not nearly as clear-cut as shopping for individual stocks. How to shop for municipal bonds, using the Internet both as a source of bonds for purchase, as well as for information.
May 2006 by Annette Thau
Trying to buy or sell municipal bonds? If so, you may need some help cutting through the fog of bond market pricing and trading. Shopping for bonds is not nearly as clear-cut as shopping for individual stocks. How to shop for municipal bonds, using the Internet both as a source of bonds for purchase, as well as for information.
Fine-Tuning Your Portfolio: A Look at Bond Swaps
February 2006 by
Bond investing strategies range from a buy-and-hold approach to complex tactical trades involving views on inflation and interest rates. The right strategy for you depends on your goals, timeframe and risk tolerance. But if you manage a portfolio of individual bonds, one strategy you might want to consider is the bond swap.
February 2006 by
Bond investing strategies range from a buy-and-hold approach to complex tactical trades involving views on inflation and interest rates. The right strategy for you depends on your goals, timeframe and risk tolerance. But if you manage a portfolio of individual bonds, one strategy you might want to consider is the bond swap.
Muni Trading Gets Real: Current Prices on the Internet
May 2005 by Annette Thau
Municipal bond trades are now reported on a real-time basis through the InvestinginBonds.com Web site. A look at how individual investors can use this information to buy and sell municipal bonds - and get a handle on bond commissions.
May 2005 by Annette Thau
Municipal bond trades are now reported on a real-time basis through the InvestinginBonds.com Web site. A look at how individual investors can use this information to buy and sell municipal bonds - and get a handle on bond commissions.
Bond Market Strategies for a Rising Rate Environment
February 2005 by Annette Thau
Bonds: The current "consensus" is that short-term interest rates are likely to rise. That leaves many questions open, including what, if anything, you should do about it. A look at strategies that will serve you best when interest rates are rising.
February 2005 by Annette Thau
Bonds: The current "consensus" is that short-term interest rates are likely to rise. That leaves many questions open, including what, if anything, you should do about it. A look at strategies that will serve you best when interest rates are rising.
How to Buy International Bonds and Funds
August 2004 by Annette Thau
Bonds: Although not a must-have category, individuals with very large bond portfolios may choose to invest a small portion in the international bond area. How do you accomplish this? A look at the different options.
August 2004 by Annette Thau
Bonds: Although not a must-have category, individuals with very large bond portfolios may choose to invest a small portion in the international bond area. How do you accomplish this? A look at the different options.
Climbing the Ladder: How to Manage Risk in Your Bond Portfolio
July 2004 by Steven Bohlin
Bonds: Staggering the maturities in your bond portfolio can efficiently balance interest rate risk and reinvestment risk. How to create a bond ladder.
July 2004 by Steven Bohlin
Bonds: Staggering the maturities in your bond portfolio can efficiently balance interest rate risk and reinvestment risk. How to create a bond ladder.
Climbing the Ladder: How to Manage Risk in Your Bond Portfolio
July 2004 by Steven Bohlin
Staggering the maturities in your bond portfolio can efficiently balance interest rate risk and reinvestment risk. How to create a bond ladder.
July 2004 by Steven Bohlin
Staggering the maturities in your bond portfolio can efficiently balance interest rate risk and reinvestment risk. How to create a bond ladder.
Foreign Interest: A Closer Look at the International Bond Markets
May 2004 by Annette Thau
Bonds: Over the past few years, returns from all types of international bonds have ranged from good to spectacular. As always after good returns from a sector, the question arises: Is there still a case to be made for investing in international bonds?
May 2004 by Annette Thau
Bonds: Over the past few years, returns from all types of international bonds have ranged from good to spectacular. As always after good returns from a sector, the question arises: Is there still a case to be made for investing in international bonds?
Inflation Protection: I Savings Bonds
February 2004 by AAII Staff
I Savings Bonds are a vehicle for protecting fixed-income investments against inflation. They are the newest and most attractive of the savings bonds.
February 2004 by AAII Staff
I Savings Bonds are a vehicle for protecting fixed-income investments against inflation. They are the newest and most attractive of the savings bonds.
TIPS for Inflation-Proofing Your Portfolio: A Guide to Inflation-Indexed Securities
February 2004 by AAII Staff
Treasury Inflation-Indexed Securities--TIPS--were introduced in 1997, and designed so that principal and interest payments would be protected against inflation. Are these right for you? A look at TIPS, TIPS funds, and I savings bonds.
February 2004 by AAII Staff
Treasury Inflation-Indexed Securities--TIPS--were introduced in 1997, and designed so that principal and interest payments would be protected against inflation. Are these right for you? A look at TIPS, TIPS funds, and I savings bonds.
TIPS for Inflation-Proofing Your Portfolio: A Guide to Inflation-Indexed Securities
February 2004 by Annette Thau
Treasury Inflation-Indexed Securities (TIPS) were introduced in 1997, and designed so that principal and interest payments would be protected against inflation. Are these right for you? A look at TIPS, TIPS funds, and I savings bonds.
February 2004 by Annette Thau
Treasury Inflation-Indexed Securities (TIPS) were introduced in 1997, and designed so that principal and interest payments would be protected against inflation. Are these right for you? A look at TIPS, TIPS funds, and I savings bonds.
Are Junk Bonds for You? A Look at High-Yield Bonds
October 2003 by Annette Thau
One-year returns of junk bond funds averaged 20% in 2003 after a two-year slump, tracking the stock market rebound. Is now a good time for indviduals to invest in this sector?
October 2003 by Annette Thau
One-year returns of junk bond funds averaged 20% in 2003 after a two-year slump, tracking the stock market rebound. Is now a good time for indviduals to invest in this sector?
How to Shop for Bonds: Pricing Munis on the Internet
April 2003 by Annette Thau
Buying municipal bonds is a little like buying a car--shopping around and doing some comparison. The frustrating aspect of munis is pricing and markups. The situation is improving, with pricing information slowly becoming available on the Internet.
April 2003 by Annette Thau
Buying municipal bonds is a little like buying a car--shopping around and doing some comparison. The frustrating aspect of munis is pricing and markups. The situation is improving, with pricing information slowly becoming available on the Internet.
Putting Together a Portfolio of Municipal Bond Investments
February 2003 by Annette Thau
Any decision you make about fixed-income investments regarding maturities will involve trade-offs between the amount of income generated by your portfolio and the risk to the value of principal.
February 2003 by Annette Thau
Any decision you make about fixed-income investments regarding maturities will involve trade-offs between the amount of income generated by your portfolio and the risk to the value of principal.
Maximizing Your Profits When Investing in Bonds
January 2003 by Hildy Richelson
The experts can agree neither on which way interest rates will go next nor on what the shape of the yield curve means for interest rates in the future. However, you can still get significant information from studying the yield curve.
January 2003 by Hildy Richelson
The experts can agree neither on which way interest rates will go next nor on what the shape of the yield curve means for interest rates in the future. However, you can still get significant information from studying the yield curve.
What You Need to know About Investing in Municipal Bonds
October 2002 by Annette Thau
Munis deserve their popularity among individual investors. They are sound and relatively uncomplicated instruments. Nonetheless, buying individual municipal bonds is not quite as simple as buying Treasuries.
October 2002 by Annette Thau
Munis deserve their popularity among individual investors. They are sound and relatively uncomplicated instruments. Nonetheless, buying individual municipal bonds is not quite as simple as buying Treasuries.
What You Need to Know About Investing in Municipal Bonds
October 2002 by AAII Staff
Munis deserve their popularity among individual investors. They are sound and relatively uncomplicated instruments. Nonetheless, buying individual municipal bonds is not quite as simple as buying Treasuries.
October 2002 by AAII Staff
Munis deserve their popularity among individual investors. They are sound and relatively uncomplicated instruments. Nonetheless, buying individual municipal bonds is not quite as simple as buying Treasuries.
Investing in U.S. Treasuries and the Treasury Direct Program
April 2002 by Annette Thau
Treasuries have a number of features that make them extremely attractive to individual investors. And if you buy through Treasury Direct, you eliminate all commission costs as well as any cost for maintaining an account.
April 2002 by Annette Thau
Treasuries have a number of features that make them extremely attractive to individual investors. And if you buy through Treasury Direct, you eliminate all commission costs as well as any cost for maintaining an account.
Bond Basics: An Investor's Guide to the Many Meanings of Yield
January 2002 by AAII Staff
The term "yield" can be confusing to investors because it has a number of different meanings. Even more confusing is the fact that these meanings are not directly comparable for individual bonds and for bond funds.
January 2002 by AAII Staff
The term "yield" can be confusing to investors because it has a number of different meanings. Even more confusing is the fact that these meanings are not directly comparable for individual bonds and for bond funds.
Bond Investing Basics: Why Bond Prices Go Up and Down
November 2001 by Annette Thau
Bonds: Since the late 1970s, changes in the interest rate environment have become the greatest single determinant of bond returns, and managing interest rate risk has become the most critical variable in the management of bond portfolios.
November 2001 by Annette Thau
Bonds: Since the late 1970s, changes in the interest rate environment have become the greatest single determinant of bond returns, and managing interest rate risk has become the most critical variable in the management of bond portfolios.
How Credit Ratings Affect Bond Valuations | Bond Ratings Explained
November 2001 by AAII Staff
Managing interest rate risk has become the most critical variable in the management of bond portfolios. Learn more about affects of interest rates on bond variations.
November 2001 by AAII Staff
Managing interest rate risk has become the most critical variable in the management of bond portfolios. Learn more about affects of interest rates on bond variations.
You CAN Lose With Bonds
November 2001 by AAII Staff
Many investors put money in bonds to receive interest income and assume their original investment - their principal - will not change in value. However, this assumption is wrong! What you can do to protect your money.
November 2001 by AAII Staff
Many investors put money in bonds to receive interest income and assume their original investment - their principal - will not change in value. However, this assumption is wrong! What you can do to protect your money.
Bond Basics for Individuals: A Guide to Buying and Selling
June 2001 by AAII Staff
In the bond markets, individual investors--even the wealthy--are all little guys. To protect your own interests, if you want to buy individual bonds you need to become an informed investor.
June 2001 by AAII Staff
In the bond markets, individual investors--even the wealthy--are all little guys. To protect your own interests, if you want to buy individual bonds you need to become an informed investor.
EE Savings Bonds: They’re Worth a Peek
August 1986 by Charles Meyer
The floating rate and guaranteed minimum return rate provide several attractive reasons for considering these often-neglected bonds if you are a long-term investor.
August 1986 by Charles Meyer
The floating rate and guaranteed minimum return rate provide several attractive reasons for considering these often-neglected bonds if you are a long-term investor.