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What is a Bond?

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What is the Meaning of Bond?

Bond is a fixed-income instrument that represents a loan from an investor to a borrower. It is a contract between the investor and the borrower, where the borrower uses the money to fund its operation and the investors receive interest on the investment.

Bonds are high-security debt instruments that fall under the fixed income asset class. It enables an entity to raise funds to fulfil the capital requirement for funding various projects. It is a debt that borrower’s avail from individuals for a specified tenure.

These are issued by the government, corporates, municipalities, states, and other entities to fund their projects. These bonds have a maturity date and when that is attained, the issuer needs to pay back the amount along with a part of the profit to the investor.

With this understanding of Bonds meaning in finance, let’s take a look at the features and working of this debt category.

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Who are the issuers of a Bond?

The issuers of bonds are:

  • Government: The government raises funds to sponsor roads, dams, schools and other infrastructure projects. The government institutions at all levels need funds to sponsor roads, dams, schools, and other infrastructure projects and to complete projects and hence raise funds through bonds.
  • Corporations:Businesses or corporations often borrow money to grow their business. The browning can be for buying equipment, for research and development, undertaking profitable projects, etc. Large corporations usually need far more money than what a bank can typically lend.

How Bonds Work in Finance

Bonds are essential financial instruments in the capital market, representing a loan made by an investor to a borrower, typically a corporation or government. When an investor purchases a bond, they are effectively lending money for a specified period in exchange for periodic interest payments, known as coupon payments. The bond meaning is rooted in its promise to return the principal amount at maturity, making it a relatively safe investment compared to other assets. Different types of bonds in finance include treasury bonds, corporate bonds, and municipal bonds, each varying in risk and return characteristics. Understanding how bonds work is crucial for investors seeking stable income and portfolio diversification. Their characteristics, such as fixed interest rates and predetermined maturity dates, provide predictability, which is appealing in an often volatile market environment. By grasping the intricacies of bonds, investors can make informed decisions that align with their financial goals and risk tolerance.Features of a Bond

Bonds have three components that are used to calculate a bond yield:

  • The principal
  • The coupon rates
  • The maturity dates

  • When the borrower issue bonds, an agreement is made between the borrower and the lender where the issuer of the bond promises to pay back the principal amount on the maturity date. The issuer also pays the interest on the money borrowed (Coupon) throughout the tenure.

Features of a Bond in Capital Market

  • Issue Date: The issue date of bonds is the date from which the interest starts accruing.
  • Coupon Rate: The interest rate at which a bond is issued, which the company is liable to pay to the investors is referred as the coupon rate. Coupon payments are made semi-annually or annually.
  • Maturity Date: It is the date on which the issuer pays back the Bonds’ face value to the investor. Before investing, check the maturity period of the Bond and invest as per your financial goal.
  • Taxation: Certain Bonds provide tax benefits, while there are few corporate bonds that levy tax on their Bonds. Also, certain Bonds issued by the government, municipality Bonds, and a few more don’t impose a tax on the profit earned.

Advantages of a Bond in Capital Market

  • Portfolio Diversification: Diversification can provide you with better risk-adjusted returns. Also, diversification with bonds can help preserve capital for equity investors during times when the stock market is slumping.
  • Lower Risk: Bonds are long-term investment instruments with low-risk associated.
  • Fixed Return on investment: Bonds pay interest at regular intervals and also, when Bonds mature, the investor receives the principal amount. In Bonds, the investor knows the exact return he/she will be getting.

Characteristics of Bonds

  • Fixed Interest Payments: Bonds provide regular coupon payments, usually semi-annually or annually, which offer a predictable income stream to investors.

  • Maturity Date: Each bond has a specified maturity date, when the principal amount is repaid to the bondholder, marking the end of the investment period.

  • Face Value: The face value is the amount returned to the bondholder upon maturity, often standardized at $1,000 for corporate bonds.

  • Credit Rating: Bonds are assessed by credit rating agencies, which evaluate the issuer's creditworthiness, impacting interest rates and investor confidence.

  • Liquidity: Most bonds can be traded in the secondary market, allowing investors to sell before maturity, although liquidity varies by bond type.

  • Callable or Puttable Options: Some bonds include features that allow issuers to redeem them early (callable) or provide investors the option to sell them back at a predetermined price (puttable).

  • Types of Bonds: Characteristics can vary significantly across different types of bonds, including government, corporate, municipal, and high-yield bonds, each having unique features and risk profiles.

List of Different Types of Bonds Categories

  • Government Bonds: These are the bonds issued by the Central and the State Government of India. RBI (Reserve Bank of India) manages and regulates these bonds. Government bonds generally have a low-interest rate.
  • Municipal Bonds: These are issued by municipalities or government bodies. When compared with Government bonds, these carry comparatively more risks.
  • Corporate Bonds: These are bonds that are issued by private companies. The companies issue both Secured Bonds and Unsecured Bonds. The companies issue them to raise capital at a low-interest rate. Certain Corporate Bonds pay higher yields than Government Bonds.
  • Asset-Backed Securities:Asset-Backed Securities are Bonds that are issued by banks or other financial institutions.

What are the Different Types of Bonds in Finance

There are varieties of Bonds available for investors. These can be divided by the rate, type of interest, or coupon payment. Below is the list of the most common variations:

  • Callable Bonds: When a Bond issuer calls out his right to redeem the Bond even before it reaches its maturity, it is referred to as a Callable Bond. This option is exercised by the Bond issuer. An issuer can convert a high debt bond into a low debt bond.
  • Fixed-rate Bonds: Bonds whose coupon rate remains the same through the course or tenure of the investment, it is referred to as Fixed-rate Bonds.
  • Floating-rate Bonds: Bonds whose coupon rate vary during the tenure of the investment, then it is referred to as Floating-rate Bonds.
  • Zero Coupon Bonds: Zero coupon bonds When the coupon rate is Zero and the Bonds issuer pays only the principal amount to the investor on maturity. It is called Zero-coupon Bonds.
  • Puttable Bonds: These are those Bonds where an investor sells their bond and gets their money back before the maturity date, then it is called Puttable Bonds.

Things to Consider Before Investing in Bonds

An investor must consider the following factors before investing in Bonds:

  • Do the Bonds fit into your financial plans
  • Do the Bonds carry the risk of default
  • What will be the price risk of these Bonds
  • What is the exit option

What is Yield to Maturity (YTM)

YMT (Yield To Maturity) is one of the ways through which one can price Bonds. It is the total of expected return for an investor if the bond is held till maturity. It is a long-term yield but represented as an annual rate.

Who Should Invest in Bonds?

Bonds are an excellent investment option for various types of investors, particularly those seeking stability and regular income. They are ideal for risk-averse individuals, such as retirees, who prioritize preserving capital and receiving predictable returns over higher-risk investments like stocks. Additionally, conservative investors looking to diversify their portfolios may find bonds appealing, as they can help reduce overall risk by balancing more volatile assets.

Investors who are concerned about market fluctuations but still want a source of passive income will benefit from the fixed interest payments that bonds provide. Furthermore, bonds can be an attractive option for those interested in tax-efficient investing, as certain bonds, like municipal bonds, often offer tax-free interest income.

Finally, those with long-term financial goals who wish to ensure stability in their investment strategy should consider adding bonds. Understanding your financial objectives and risk tolerance is essential in determining whether bonds are a suitable addition to your investment portfolio.

Investors who are risk averse and looking for fixed returns on investment should consider bonds.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do bonds work?

Answer Field

Bonds are debt instruments issued by entities such as governments, municipalities, or corporations to raise capital. When you buy a bond, you are essentially lending money to the issuer in exchange for periodic interest payments and the return of the bond's face value upon maturity. The interest payments, known as coupon payments, are typically made semi-annually or annually. Bonds have a fixed maturity date, at which point the principal amount is repaid to the investor.

Are bonds a good investment?

Answer Field

Bonds can be a good investment for those seeking stable and predictable returns. They are generally less volatile than stocks and can provide a steady income stream through regular interest payments. Bonds can also diversify an investment portfolio, reducing overall risk. However, the suitability of bonds depends on individual financial goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions.

Are bonds guaranteed?

Answer Field

Not all bonds are guaranteed. Government bonds, such as those issued by the central or state governments, are typically considered low-risk and are often backed by the government's credit. Corporate bonds, on the other hand, are subject to the issuing company's financial stability and may carry higher risk. Some bonds may have specific guarantees or insurance, but it is essential to check the bond's credit rating and issuer's credibility before investing.

What is the riskiest type of bond?

Answer Field

The riskiest type of bond is typically a high-yield bond, also known as a junk bond. These bonds are issued by companies with lower credit ratings and, therefore, offer higher interest rates to attract investors. The increased risk comes from the higher likelihood of default, meaning the issuer may be unable to make interest payments or repay the principal.

What is the safest type of bond?

Answer Field

Government bonds, particularly those issued by stable governments like the Government of India (such as G-Secs), are considered the safest type of bonds. These bonds are backed by the full faith and credit of the issuing government, making them low-risk investments. Treasury bills and notes are examples of safe government bonds.

What makes a bond attractive?

Answer Field

A bond becomes attractive based on factors such as its interest rate (coupon rate), credit rating, and maturity period. Higher interest rates offer better returns, while higher credit ratings indicate lower risk. Additionally, bonds with features like call or put options and tax advantages can also enhance their appeal. Investors look for bonds that align with their risk tolerance and investment goals.

Are bonds risk-free?

Answer Field

No, bonds are not entirely risk-free. While they are generally considered safer than stocks, they still carry risks such as credit risk (issuer default), interest rate risk (fluctuations in interest rates affecting bond prices), and inflation risk (erosion of purchasing power). Government bonds are relatively low-risk, but even they are subject to interest rate and inflation risks.

How are bonds priced?

Answer Field

Bonds are priced based on their face value, interest rate (coupon rate), and market interest rates. The price of a bond fluctuates with changes in market interest rates. When market interest rates rise, bond prices typically fall, and vice versa. Other factors influencing bond prices include the issuer’s credit rating, time to maturity, and prevailing economic conditions.

How to invest in bonds in India?

Answer Field

To invest in bonds in India, you can buy them through various channels such as stock exchanges, banks, and stock brokers like Bajaj Broking. Bonds can be purchased during the initial offering or in the secondary market. You can also invest through bond mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that hold a diversified portfolio of bonds. Consulting with a financial advisor can help you choose the right bonds based on your investment objectives and risk profile.

How do bonds work?

Answer Field

Bonds function as loans from investors to borrowers, usually governments or corporations. When you purchase a bond, you agree to lend your money for a specified period, receiving periodic interest payments. At maturity, the issuer repays the bond’s face value.

How to invest in bonds in India?

Answer Field

To invest in bonds in India, you can open a demat account with a broker or financial institution. Options include buying government securities, corporate bonds, or bond mutual funds. It’s essential to understand the risks and types of bonds available before investing.

What is the riskiest type of bond?

Answer Field

High-yield or junk bonds represent the riskiest category of bonds. Issued by companies with low credit ratings, these bonds offer higher interest rates to attract investors but come with a significant risk of default, making them suitable only for risk-tolerant investors.

What is the safest type of bond?

Answer Field

Treasury bonds, issued by the government, are widely considered the safest type of bond. They are backed by the government’s full faith and credit, making them low-risk investments. Investors often turn to treasury bonds for stability during economic uncertainty.

Are bonds a good investment?

Answer Field

Bonds can be a good investment for those seeking steady income and lower risk compared to stocks. They diversify an investment portfolio, providing predictable cash flow. However, the suitability depends on individual financial goals, market conditions, and risk tolerance.

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