What is a Bond?

Though bonds as an investment class don’t generate the highest returns, they have their own appeal. They offer portfolio diversification, generate steady returns even in the face of a highly volatile investment environment, provide tax advantages and more.

If you don't know what bank bonds are and want to learn how to start investing in them, it’s important to know at least the basics of bond investing. Gaining insight on bonds is the first step toward a robust bond-investing education.

What Are Bonds?

Bonds are fixed-income securities which provide investors with fixed periodic payments and the eventual return of principal at the end of the tenure of the security.

A bond is a loan advanced by the bond purchaser to the bond issuer, and is a debt instrument that functions like an IOU. In other words, a bank bond is an agreement signed between a bond issuer and the investor, specifying the fixed amount the issuer is obligated to pay at specified intervals.

Type of Bonds

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) lists the following types of bonds in its website:

U.S. Treasury Securities

These are issued by the federal government, and with the U.S. government backing them with its “full faith and credit,” these are considered the safest bond investment option. Treasury securities can be a treasury bill (maturity period of four weeks, 13 weeks, 26 weeks or 52 weeks), treasury notes (maturity period of two, three, five, seven and ten years) and treasury bonds (maturity period of 30 years).

U.S. Savings Bonds

Savings bonds are also issued by the government and backed by the “full faith and credit” guarantee, the difference being they can be purchased for as low an investment as $25 and they cannot be bought or sold in a secondary market. It is a low-risk investment that allows individuals to lend money to the government and earn interest over time. Savings bonds are typically purchased at a discounted rate and can be redeemed for their full value at a later date, making them a popular choice for long-term savings or as gifts for children.

Mortgage-Backed Securities (MBS)

These bonds are secured by home and real estate loans. Banks offering mortgage loans pool loans with similar characteristics from among these and sell them to a federal government agency or a government-sponsored enterprise such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac or a financial institution. These agencies/institutions in turn issue MBS, with the pooled loans serving as collateral for the MBS.

Corporate Bonds

These bonds are issued by corporations to raise finances for various end uses such as general corporate purposes, mergers and acquisitions, capital expenditures, etc.

Municipal Bonds

These are issued by states, cities, counties and other government entities to raise money for building infrastructure or financing other public projects.

International Bonds

These are issued by foreign governments or companies.

As is always the case, with higher risks come higher returns. Bonds, safer bets relative to equities, have mostly underperformed equities. One area where bonds score over equities is the consistency of returns.

Over a 10-year period ending Sept. 30, 2014, U.S. equities generated an average annual return of 8.11%. This compares to the 4.62% average annual return generated by bonds in the same period. However, there are turbulent periods such as the post-Dotcom Bubble burst, when bonds outperform equities.

Convertible Bonds

A convertible bond is a type of bond that can be converted into a predetermined number of shares of the issuing company's stock. It is a hybrid security that combines features of both debt and equity. The bondholder has the option to convert the bond into equity at a future date, typically at a predetermined conversion price. This allows the bondholder to potentially benefit from any increase in the company's stock price. Convertible bonds provide flexibility for both the issuer and the investor, as they offer the potential for capital appreciation while also providing a fixed income stream through regular interest payments.

Bond Terms to Know

Here are a few terms you'll come across most often. Understanding the terms used to describe bank bonds and how they function helps you scan the market for quality investment opportunities.

Face Value

The face value (also known as "par value") of a bond is the price of the bond when it is first issued; the principal amount or the value at which it is redeemed at maturity. Usually, bonds are issued at face value in multiples of $1,000.

Interest Rate

Also known as coupon rate or nominal interest rate, it is the interest rate stated on the bond. It is the fixed annual interest paid by the bond issuer to the bond holder. Coupon interest payment is determined as a percentage of the bond’s face value, and is a dollar amount. Therefore, it is fixed over time.

Maturity Date

The end of a bond’s term is called the maturity date. The maturity date determines the breadth and profitability of your investment. For example, a long-term bank bond that matures several years from now pays out over that entire period. A short-term bond might pay well, but it is far less consistent because it matures so quickly.

Premium 

If the price of a bond is above its par value, the difference between the bond price and the par value is called the premium. In this case, the bond yield will be less than its stated coupon rate.

Discount

Alternatively, if a bond is trading below its par value, the deficit of the bond price over the par value is called the discount.

Bond price

The price of a bond is equal to the present value of future interest payments, plus the present value of the face value (returnable at maturity) based on the prevailing market interest rate.

Yield

Yield of a bond at a particular time is the bond interest rate expressed as a percentage of the prevailing price at that time. It is the rate of return one gets by investing in a bond. In accounting terms, yield is the present value of the cash flows from the bond, which is equal to the principal plus all remaining coupons.

Yield to Maturity

It is the rate of return an investor in a bond will earn on purchasing it at the current market price and holding it until maturity.

Call provision

It is a clause or a provision on a bond, which allows the bond issuer to repurchase the bond before the maturity period.

Put provision

A clause that states that the bond can be sold back to the issuer at a stipulated price before the maturity of the bond, with the price usually set at 100 percent of the face value. Usually multiple put periods are specified for a put bond. This offers an extra degree of protection to bond buyers, given that it establishes a floor price for the bond.

Savings Bond

Savings bond is a term that is often interchanged with treasury or government bonds. These assets pay interest after they mature to provide the investor with a profit.

Paper Savings Bond

Paper savings bonds are physical bonds issued by banks or other institutions that will pay principal and interest when they mature. Thus, they must be cashed in person with the issuing institution.

Government Bond

Government (or treasury) bonds are assets purchased by investors that will pay principal and interest upon their maturation.

Treasury Direct

TreasuryDirect is the only place where investors may purchase and redeem U.S. Savings Bonds electronically.

Debt Security

Debt securities are assets you purchase which are, in essence, a loan between the issuer and the investor. Generally, the principal amount is repaid with interest on the maturity date.

Treasury Bills

Treasury bills are sold to consumers for terms of 4 to 52 weeks. The treasury bill will pay interest when it matures.

Yield Curve

The U.S. Treasury yield curve is an historic chart that explains the yields provided by government bonds over a long period of time, up to 30 years.

Fixed Income Security

A fixed income security is one that gives you steady income for a predictable period of time. As such, bonds are generally considered fixed income securities and are favored by many investors.

How to Invest in Bonds: An Example

Let us assume company XYZ issues a 10-year dollar bond with face value of $10,000 for a fixed coupon rate of 5 percent. An investor is eligible to receive $500 each year or $250 every six months. In the above example, the bond parameters are as follows:

• Par value of the bond - $10,000
• Coupon rate - 5%
• Coupon interest - $500/year or $250 every six months
• Duration of the bond - 10 years

When the purchase price of a bond is equal to the par value, its coupon rate is equal to the yield-to-maturity. However, let’s assume an investor buys the same bond on the secondary market for $9,000. Its yield would change to 5.56% (coupon amount/bond price *100.) If the bond is sold at a premium on the secondary market at $11,000, the yield would be 4.55%.

Thus, we see that the bond price and bond yield share an inverse relationship, which makes sense since the mathematical yield equals coupon/bond price * 100. With the coupon remaining the same, any increase in bond price will lead to a decline in yield and vice-versa. This can help you calculate a rough estimate of how your bond investment might mature over time.

Important Factors Affecting Bond Prices

When bonds are traded in the secondary market, the price of the bond is influenced by the demand and supply of the bond. The other factors that affect the price are:

Interest Rates

Bond price and interest rate share an inverse relationship. Interest rate in this case means the benchmark interest rate. Taking the same example we considered earlier and the rate on short term treasury security as the benchmark interest rate is how the relation can be explained.

If the treasury rate is the same 5%, both the treasury and company XYZ’s bond will offer the same return of $500 per year. Let us assume, due to deteriorating fundamentals, the interest rate on the treasury falls to 3%, so it fetches you $300 compared to the $500 XYZ’s bond yields.

The higher yield of XYZ’s bond makes it an attractive option, sending its price higher. The price of the bond rises until its return becomes equal to the reduced returns from the treasury. Conversely, when the treasury rate rises to 7%, it would fetch you $700.

Given the lower returns from company XYZ’s bond, demand for it dwindles, sending its price lower. The price of the corporate bond drops till its yield becomes equal to the enhanced yield of the treasury.

Inflation

Bond prices also share an inverse relationship with inflation. In an inflationary environment, the future returns you earn from a bond will be worth less in today’s dollar. This is because inflation erodes the purchasing power of the returns you will earn on your investment.

Credit Rating of the Bond

The credit rating assigned to a bond by a rating agency indicates the ability of a bond issuer to pay the periodic interest payments and repay the principal amount at the time of maturity. A higher credit rating will lead to a higher bond price.

Bond Yield

As explained earlier, bond prices and bond yield share an inverse relation.

Current Events

Bond prices shift as current events alter investor sentiment and interest rates. Bonds issued by foreign banks may be affected by news impacting that country or region. For example, bonds issued by a French bank or the French government are highly-susceptible to incidents that impact France, the EU or its territories.

Investment Options for Bonds

Investing in bonds can help diversify your portfolio. It also manages risk while seeking steady returns. Bonds are loans to governments or corporations. They come in different types, each with its own benefits and risks. Options include government bonds, municipal bonds, corporate bonds, and high-yield bonds. Each type differs in maturity, credit risk, and yield. This allows investors to match bonds with their financial goals and risk tolerance. Understanding these options is important for making smart investment decisions.

Individual Bonds

Bonds are debt securities issued by various entities. These entities include government organizations, corporations, and municipalities. Each type of bond has unique characteristics and risk profiles. Government bonds, like U.S. Treasury bonds, are typically low-risk investments. This low risk comes from government backing. Corporate bonds are issued by companies and may offer higher yields. However, they carry increased risk based on the financial health of the issuing company. Municipal bonds are issued by states or local governments. They often provide tax advantages, making them attractive for investors seeking tax-efficient income.

Bond Funds

A bond fund is a type of mutual fund. It primarily invests money from multiple investors into bonds and other debt instruments. These funds create a diversified portfolio of fixed-income securities. Investors can buy and sell units of bond funds at any time. The current net asset value (NAV) reflects the market value of the underlying securities. This liquidity makes bond funds attractive for those who want exposure to bonds without managing individual bond holdings. Bond funds also provide diversification, which reduces the risk of holding a single bond.

Bond ETFs

Bond exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are investment tools that track specific bond indexes. They hold a basket of bonds that reflect the index's composition. Unlike mutual funds, bond ETFs trade like stocks. This means they have real-time pricing and allow buying and selling shares throughout the day. This gives investors flexibility in accessing the bond market. Notable bond ETFs include the iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF, which tracks the U.S. investment-grade bond market. The Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF offers exposure to the broad U.S. bond market. The iShares iBoxx $ Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF focuses specifically on investment-grade corporate bonds, making it easy for investors to access corporate debt.

Why Should You Invest in Bonds?

Investing in bonds is a basic strategy for a balanced financial portfolio. Bonds are fixed-income securities. They provide steady returns through regular interest payments. Many investors view them as safer than stocks. This is especially true for conservative investors or those nearing retirement. Bonds help preserve capital and offer stability during market fluctuations. There are various types of bonds, including government, municipal, and corporate bonds. This variety allows investors to match their investments with their risk tolerance and goals. Understanding the benefits of bonds is key for building financial strategies and securing long-term wealth.

Stable Income Stream

Bonds provide regular interest payments, known as coupon payments. These payments offer a consistent income source for investors. This is especially helpful for retirees who need these payments for living expenses. In contrast, stocks may not pay dividends consistently and can fluctuate. Bonds usually provide a predictable income schedule. This allows investors to plan their finances effectively. The regularity of bond payments can create a sense of financial security. Thus, bonds are appealing for those seeking steady cash flow without the uncertainties of equity investments.

Risk Diversification

Incorporating bonds into an investment portfolio can enhance risk diversification. Bonds and stocks often respond differently to economic changes and market conditions. For example, during market volatility or economic downturns, stocks may decline sharply. In contrast, bonds tend to provide more stability. Including bonds in a diversified portfolio can help mitigate overall risk. This can cushion potential losses from stock investments. Such diversification is particularly useful in uncertain market environments. Bonds may act as a safe haven, preserving portfolio value and providing a buffer against stock market fluctuations.

Capital Preservation

Investors often consider bonds to be safer than stocks. This is especially true for government bonds and high-quality corporate bonds. These bonds are backed by stable governments or reputable corporations. This backing provides a higher level of capital preservation. As a result, they appeal to conservative investors and those nearing retirement. Bonds may not yield the same potential returns as stocks. However, they help protect the principal investment. They also offer the possibility of modest returns. This feature makes bonds a key part of a balanced investment strategy. They are especially suitable for those who prioritize security over aggressive growth.

Considerations Before Investing in Bonds

Before investing in bonds, potential investors should consider several important factors. Bonds offer steady income and are generally less risky than stocks. However, it's essential to evaluate things like interest rates, credit quality, investment goals, and duration. Each aspect is crucial for a solid bond strategy. Additionally, being aware of the economic environment and possible inflation can affect bond performance and returns. This overview will highlight key points to consider before investing in bonds, helping investors make informed decisions.

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk is important for bond investing. It describes the way bond prices and interest rates move in opposite directions. When interest rates increase, existing bond prices usually drop. This happens because new bonds offer higher yields, making older bonds less attractive. If investors need to sell their bonds before maturity, they may incur capital losses. Therefore, understanding current and expected interest rate trends is essential. Economic indicators, central bank policies, and inflation rates affect interest rates. Investors should research these factors to anticipate changes, as they can impact the value of bond investments.

Credit Quality

Evaluating a bond issuer's credit quality is crucial for investment decisions. Bonds rated AAA indicate a lower risk of default. These are often issued by stable entities, such as governments or large corporations. While they have lower yields, they appeal to risk-averse investors due to their reliability. On the other hand, bonds rated B or lower may offer higher yields. However, they also come with a higher risk of default. These bonds can provide good returns but may lead to significant losses if the issuer struggles financially. Investors must weigh the trade-off between yield and risk when evaluating credit quality.

Investment Horizon

An investor's time frame is important when buying bonds. Different bonds have different maturities, which affect returns and liquidity. Short-term bonds usually last one to three years. They offer lower yields but are more liquid and less risky in terms of interest rates. Long-term bonds can last ten years or more. They generally offer higher yields but come with more interest rate risk. It's crucial to align bond investments with financial goals and cash flow. For example, if someone might need cash soon, short-term bonds are a better choice. Those looking for steady income over the long term may prefer longer bonds. Understanding one's investment timeline helps ensure that bond choices match personal financial goals and risk tolerance.

Your Options When Investing in Bonds

1. Individual bonds: These include bonds from sources such as government organizations, corporations, municipals and more.
2. Bond funds: A bond fund is a mutual fund invested primarily in bonds and other debt instruments. Units in the bond funds can be sold at any time for the current net asset value.
3. Bond ETFs: These are hybrid instruments because they track a bond index in an attempt to replicate its return but they trade on a stock exchange, giving it a stock-like property. Examples are bond ETFs are iShare Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF, Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF, iShares iBoxx $ Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF.

Pros of Investing in Bonds

• Bonds are a safe-haven investment option. In the eventuality of the company going bankrupt, bondholders have preference over shareholders in recovering the investment made.
• Bonds yield steady returns, unlike stocks, which can go from generating staggering returns to wiping away all of your investment dollars. Bonds, especially the ones guaranteed by the government, fetch steady returns and preserve your principal investment.

Cons of Investing in Bonds

• Bonds generate less returns than other, riskier options such as equities.
• Investing in bonds exposes an investor to interest rate risk. As seen earlier, when interest rate falls, investors will flock to the bonds yielding higher interest rate, sending their prices higher.
• Inflation also serves as a risk to bond investor, as higher inflation has the potential to wipe away the returns from a bond.
• Credit risk is also associated with certain bonds not guaranteed by “full faith and credit” of the government are at the mercy of the bond issuer’s creditworthiness.

Best Brokers for Bond Investing

Take a look at one of our favorite bond brokers.

Become a Bondholder for Secure Returns

To reap the advantages as well as mitigate the shortcomings of bond investing, it’s important to consider a portfolio approach rather than considering bond investing as a solo investment option.

Zero in on the right stock-bond-cash mix based on your investment objective and time horizon, and you should be good to go.  In these current economic times, as interest rates go up due to the Fed’s monetary policy normalization, bond investing looks a bit risky. Bonds issued in the future may come with better rates, making your investment in today’s bond less appealing.

That said, there’s no denying that bonds’ presence stabilized portfolios, which makes them an appealing investment option at any time.

Ready to invest in bonds? Read Benzinga's guides on how to buy bonds, the best bond funds and the best bond ETFs.

Frequently Asked Questions