If you’re looking to invest in bonds, you have several options depending on your risk tolerance. For those seeking safer, short-term investments, treasury bills can be a good choice. But if you’re open to taking on more risk, deep discount bonds might be worth considering. Deep discount bonds are sold at prices much lower than their face value, letting you buy them at a lower price and earn the difference when they mature. Companies that face funding challenges or have lower credit ratings often issue these bonds to attract investors. Understanding how they work can help you decide if they align with your financial goals.
Deep Discount Bond Meaning and Characteristics
A deep discount bond is a bond you can buy at a price much lower than its par value. The discount can be 20% or more, making these bonds an option for those ready to take on higher risk. Some of these bonds, like zero-coupon bonds, don’t pay interest regularly helping companies lower the cost of debt. Instead, you receive the difference between the purchase price and the face value. While the low price can be tempting, it’s essential to remember that the higher the discount, the higher the risk. Companies with lower credit ratings often issue these bonds to attract buyers.
How Do Deep Discount Bonds Work?
Step 2:
Interest Component Some of these bonds have a coupon rate, while others, like zero-coupon bonds, don’t pay regular interest. The discount acts as the interest.
Step 3:
Market Perception Companies with lower credit ratings or those in financial distress may issue these bonds to attract investors.
Benefits of Investing in Deep Discount Bonds
Potential Gains:
Holding these bonds until maturity can let you earn more than what you paid, especially if you bought them at a lower price.
Easy to Understand:
These bonds have a simple structure, and you don’t need brokers or middlemen to invest.
Long-Term Investment:
Since these bonds have longer maturity periods, they can work well for your long-term financial goals.
Affordable:
You can start investing in these bonds with a smaller amount than other bonds.
Easy to Trade:
You can sell these bonds in the secondary market, giving you more flexibility.
Risks Associated with Deep Discount Bonds
Credit Risk:
The issuer might struggle to pay the full face value, especially if they have a low credit rating.
No Regular Income:
If you choose zero-coupon bonds, you won’t receive periodic interest payments.
Tax Impact:
The gains you make are subject to taxes, reducing your overall earnings.
Deep Discount Bonds vs. Other Bonds
Feature
| Deep Discount Bonds
| Zero-Coupon Bonds
|
Interest
| May or may not have a coupon
| No interest, just the price difference as the gain
|
Taxation
| Gains are taxable
| Gains are taxable
|
Entry Point
| Typically low
| Typically low
|
Risk Level
| Higher due to issuer’s credit risk
| Moderate, often government-backed
|
Deep Discount Bonds in the Indian Context
In India, NABARD offers deep discount bonds with minimal credit risk as they are backed by a government entity. The bonds are available in denominations of ₹1,000 with a minimum investment of ₹5,000. Unlike other bonds, the income from these bonds is tax-exempt under the Income Tax Act, 1961. This structure makes them appealing to long-term investors. Moreover, these bonds can be traded without a Demat account, reducing costs.
Conclusion
Deep discount bonds can be a good option for those seeking potential gains over time. However, they come with higher risk due to the issuer’s credit profile. Before investing, consider your financial goals and how much risk you’re willing to take. While the potential for gains is there, these bonds may not suit those seeking regular income.