BAJAJ BROKING
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.
For All Disclaimers Click Here: https://bit.ly/3Tcsfuc
Share this article:
Gold Rate Today | 13 January 2025 | Gold Price in India
13 Jan, 2025 | 40 Min. read
Biocon Biologics’ Johor Bahru Facility Receives FDA VAI Classification
13 Jan, 2025 | 2 Min. read
Interarch Secures ₹221 Crore Projects in Semiconductors & Energy Storage
13 Jan, 2025 | 2 Min. read
DMart Appoints Anshul Asawa as CEO Designate, Succeeding Ignatius Noronha
13 Jan, 2025 | 2 Min. read
JSW Energy Completes ₹630 Crore Acquisition of 125 MW RE Assets
13 Jan, 2025 | 2 Min. read
Laxmi Dental IPO- Key Objective & Deep Analysis
13 Jan, 2025 | 4 Min. read
How to Apply for Sat Kartar Shopping IPO & Check Allotment Status?
13 Jan, 2025 | 1 Min. read
Surya Roshni Secures ₹81.47 Crore Order from BPCL for CGD Project
10 Jan, 2025 | 2 Min. read
Equitas Small Finance Bank Hikes Savings Account Interest Rates
10 Jan, 2025 | 2 Min. read
Polyplex Corporation to Invest ₹558 Crore in New BOPET Film Plant
10 Jan, 2025 | 2 Min. read
Swiggy Instamart Expands to 75+ Cities, Launching Standalone App
10 Jan, 2025 | 2 Min. read
BHEL Commissions First Two Units in Bhutan's Mega Hydroelectric Project
09 Jan, 2025 | 2 Min. read
RBI Launches ULI: Transforming Loan Access
August 27, 2024 | 4 Min. read
Textile Sector in India
September 20, 2024 | 5 Min. read
List of IPOs with DRHPs Filed
November 30, 2023 | 3 Min. read
Aditya Birla Group
September 28, 2023 | 10 Min. read
Bajaj Housing Finance Ltd IPO: Things Smart Investors Need to Know
September 05, 2024 | 4 Min. read
Budget Stock Ideas 2024-2025 | Stocks to Buy Today
July 24, 2024 | 4 Min. read
IPO Eligibility Criteria : Full Details
March 15, 2024 | 6 Min. read
What Is the Lock-In Period in IPOs?
October 18, 2023 | 6 Min. read
Godfrey Phillips Announces 2:1 Bonus Shares
September 16, 2024 | 7 Min. read
Jindal Group- A Comprehensive Analysis
September 27, 2024 | 7 Min. read
Level up your stock market experience: Download the Bajaj Broking App for effortless investing and trading