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Traditionally secure investment instruments for low-risk investors, bond investment is popular for its fixed returns. Considered for their “risk-free” nature, compared to say, equity, bonds may yet pose a degree of risk while investing directly in them.
In India, there are many types of investors in terms of the risks taken while investing. While some investors don’t mind taking a chance on more risky investments like stocks, there are several who place safety above all else in their investments. Bond investment is considered one of the safer investment channels as investing in bonds gives you assured returns, although these may be less profitable than those you get from stocks. While bonds are among investment instruments that give you a low-risk component, there are certain things to consider before you invest. Let’s find out some basics about bond investment first.
In the article that follows, you can learn about the following:
Basics About Bond Investment
Considerations and Questions Before Bond Investment
Investing in bonds offers a reliable way to diversify your portfolio and secure steady returns. Bonds involve lending money to corporations or governments in exchange for regular interest payments and the return of the principal at maturity. They provide a regular source of income, generally are of lower risk compared to stocks, and can stabilize a diversified portfolio during market volatility. This article will help you understand the key aspects of bond investing.
Bond investment is typically viewed as secure relative to other more ‘risky’ investments like equity, but should you jump in blindly? When you think of any investment instrument, there are some considerations and questions you may bring to the table. With bonds, there are the following considerations and questions to ponder before you invest:
Risk Tolerance
The foremost consideration before investing in any investment instrument is to consider the investor’s risk profile. You may think this is a redundant consideration as bonds are less risky investments than others. However, it is essential to assess your risk tolerance, or how much risk you are prepared to take (and how much you want to avoid) when investing in bonds and debentures. This is especially true if you are investing in bonds with a high yield.
For instance, when contemplating corporate bonds, it's important to acknowledge several risks including interest rate, inflation, credit, and liquidity risks. Assessing the bond's credit rating is crucial as it reflects the bond's overall creditworthiness.
Does the bond fit into my investment horizon?
Another relevant question or consideration is whether the bond matches your investment horizon. Investors must have a return target that is clearly defined as well as an investment horizon that is aligned with the bond investment term of maturity. In general, the bond investment you make must suit your unique time horizon and your distinct financial plan.
Risk of Default
Before making a bond investment, it is crucial to understand the likelihood of whether your bond issuer goes into default, and if this occurs, will you get your capital back (or part of it)? Bonds may run the risk of issuers defaulting on interest payouts or the maturity amount of the bond. In the case of government bonds, the risk is minimal, and even zero, but some private sector bonds may be risky in terms of defaults. In investing in bonds, this may be one of the riskiest factors to consider.
When it comes to bond interest rates, investors have the option to invest in bonds with either fixed or floating interest rates. These types of interest rates determine the variety of bonds available for investment. A fixed interest rate remains constant throughout the bond's term, providing a predetermined rate of interest on the investment amount. On the other hand, a floating interest rate may fluctuate based on market interest rate shifts, potentially altering the interest earned on the bond investment over its tenure. While opting for a floating interest rate may offer the possibility of higher returns, it also carries the risk of fluctuations in interest earnings.
Bond investment, considered one of the safe investment categories by many accounts, may still pose a risk for investors who fail to consider certain factors related to bond investment. Such investment requires assessment before you invest and monitoring after you invest.
Investing in bonds can be a valuable addition to your investment portfolio, offering stability and income potential. However, it's crucial to consider factors such as risk tolerance, investment objectives, and market conditions before making any decisions. By carefully evaluating these factors and staying informed about bond market trends, investors can make well-informed decisions to optimize their bond investments. Remember to diversify your bond holdings and regularly review your investment strategy to ensure it aligns with your financial goals.
Disclaimer: Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing.
This content is for educational purposes only. Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.
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