Fixed-income investments are assets that deliver consistent interest payments and return the original investment amount when they mature. Designed for stability, they appeal to investors looking for predictable income and lower risk. These investments are ideal for those who value steady growth without the volatility commonly seen with stocks.
Fixed-income investments provide a reliable way to earn steady returns while minimizing risk, making them a cornerstone of conservative portfolios.
Below is a list of some of the best fixed-income investments, each with unique benefits and considerations, allowing you to find the right fit for your financial goals.
Treasury bonds, issued by the US Department of the Treasury, are widely regarded as one of the safest fixed-income investments available.
Backed by the full faith and credit of the US government, they guarantee interest payments and the return of the principal amount at maturity, making them particularly appealing to risk-averse investors.
Treasury bonds come with maturities ranging from 10 to 30 years, allowing for flexibility based on your investment horizon. One of the key advantages of Treasury bonds is their exemption from state and local taxes, which can boost after-tax returns for investors in higher tax brackets.
They are also highly liquid, with a robust secondary market that makes buying and selling relatively easy. However, their low yields can be a downside, as returns may not keep pace with inflation, potentially reducing purchasing power over time. Additionally, long-term bonds are more sensitive to interest rate changes, which can lead to fluctuations in their market value.
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Municipal bonds, often referred to as “munis,” are debt securities issued by state, city or local governments to fund public infrastructure projects such as schools, roads and hospitals.
These bonds are particularly attractive because the interest income they generate is exempt from federal taxes and, in some cases, state and local taxes as well. This tax advantage makes munis a popular choice for investors in higher tax brackets seeking to maximize after-tax returns.
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Municipal bonds are typically categorized as general obligation bonds, which are backed by the full faith and credit of the issuing government, or revenue bonds, which are repaid from the income generated by a specific project, like toll roads or utilities. While generally considered low-risk, the safety of municipal bonds depends on the financial health of the issuing municipality.
Corporate bonds are fixed-income securities issued by companies to raise capital for operational or expansion purposes. They offer higher yields compared to government and municipal bonds, reflecting the increased risk associated with private issuers.
These bonds can range from highly secure investment-grade bonds issued by stable, established companies to high-yield, or “junk” bonds, which offer greater returns but come with a higher risk of default.
One of the main attractions of corporate bonds is their yield potential, which can provide a significant boost to income-focused portfolios. Additionally, they are available in a wide range of maturities, allowing investors to tailor their bond selections to align with specific financial goals.
However, corporate bonds carry credit risk, as the issuer’s financial stability directly impacts their ability to meet interest and principal payments. It’s crucial to review credit ratings provided by agencies like Moody’s or S&P to assess this risk.
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Certificates of deposit (CDs) are low-risk, fixed-income investments offered by banks and credit unions. When you purchase a CD, you agree to deposit a sum of money for a specified term, which can range from a few months to several years, in exchange for a fixed interest rate.
CDs are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) for up to $250,000, providing a high level of security for your funds.
CDs are particularly attractive to investors seeking guaranteed returns without market exposure. They are often used as a tool for short- to medium-term savings goals, such as funding a down payment on a house or building an emergency fund.
However, early withdrawals typically incur penalties, and the fixed interest rates may not keep pace with inflation, reducing real returns over time.
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Bond mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) offer a convenient way to gain diversified exposure to the bond market. These funds pool money from multiple investors to purchase a mix of bonds, including government, corporate and municipal bonds.
This diversification reduces the risk associated with holding individual bonds and allows investors to access a broader range of fixed-income securities. The scale of the fixed-income market is immense, with the US Treasury Market alone valued at approximately $27 trillion as of May 2024, providing ample opportunities for portfolio diversification and stability.(1)
ETFs, in particular, are traded on exchanges like stocks, offering real-time pricing and high liquidity. They are a popular choice for investors seeking flexibility and low costs. Bond mutual funds, while less liquid, often provide professional management, which can be an advantage for those who prefer a hands-off approach.
Both options come with varying expense ratios, so it’s important to evaluate fees to maximize net returns.
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Savings bonds, issued by the US Treasury, are a low-risk investment option designed for individual investors. They are backed by the federal government, making them one of the safest places to park your money.
These bonds come in two main types: Series EE and Series I. Series EE bonds offer a fixed interest rate and are guaranteed to double in value after 20 years if held to maturity. Series I bonds, on the other hand, combine a fixed rate with an inflation-adjusted rate, helping protect your purchasing power during times of rising prices.
Savings bonds are often used for long-term goals, such as funding education or supplementing retirement savings. One notable advantage is their tax benefits — interest earned is exempt from state and local taxes, and it can be excluded from federal taxes if used for qualified educational expenses.
However, savings bonds have limitations. They typically offer lower returns than other investments, and liquidity is restricted. Bonds cannot be cashed out within the first 12 months, and redeeming them before five years results in a penalty.
Annuities are contracts with insurance companies designed to provide a steady income stream, making them particularly appealing for retirement planning. They come in various forms, including fixed, variable and indexed annuities.
Fixed annuities guarantee a specific payment amount, offering stability and predictability. Variable annuities, while riskier, allow your investments to grow based on market performance. Indexed annuities combine features of both, tying returns to a market index like the S&P 500.
One of the main advantages of annuities is their ability to provide lifetime income, reducing the risk of outliving your savings. Additionally, they offer tax-deferred growth, meaning you won’t pay taxes on earnings until you withdraw funds. This benefit can be significant for long-term savers.
However, annuities are not without downsides. High fees, including management costs and surrender charges for early withdrawals, can eat into your returns. Annuities also tend to have less flexibility than other investments, as your money is tied up for the contract’s duration.
Preferred stocks occupy a unique position between common stocks and bonds, offering investors fixed dividends along with a higher claim on assets than common stockholders in the event of liquidation. These hybrid investments combine features of both equity and debt, making them an attractive option for those seeking steady income with some growth potential.
One of the primary benefits of preferred stocks is their consistent dividend payments, which are typically higher than the yields on common stocks or many bonds. These dividends are paid before any payments to common shareholders, providing an added layer of security.
Additionally, some preferred stocks come with callable or convertible features, allowing issuers to repurchase them or convert them into common stock under certain conditions, offering flexibility for both parties.
This type of equity generally lacks voting rights, limiting shareholders’ influence in corporate decisions. However, as a retail investor, your voting rights are essentially a moot point anyway — so it isn’t really a proper drawback. The value of preferred stock can also fluctuate with changes in interest rates, similar to bonds. In times of rising rates, the prices of preferred stocks may decline, potentially offsetting their dividend benefits.
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Selecting the right fixed-income investments depends on your financial objectives, risk tolerance and investment horizon.
For short-term goals, options like certificates of deposit (CDs) or Treasury bills provide safety and quick access to funds.
If you’re planning for long-term stability, government or municipal bonds might be better suited. Those seeking higher yields but willing to accept some risk may explore corporate bonds or bond funds. Align your choices with your income needs, capital preservation goals and the level of market exposure you’re comfortable with.
Fixed-income investments offer unique advantages, making them a valuable component of many financial strategies:
While fixed-income investments are generally low-risk, certain missteps can undermine their benefits:
To maximize the potential of fixed-income investments, adopting thoughtful strategies can align your portfolio with your financial goals.
One popular approach is bond laddering, where you invest in bonds with staggered maturities. This strategy provides consistent cash flow as bonds mature at different intervals, allowing you to reinvest proceeds at prevailing interest rates. It also reduces the impact of interest rate fluctuations by spreading risk across various time horizons.
Another key strategy is diversification within fixed-income assets. By investing in a mix of government, corporate and municipal bonds, you can reduce the concentration risk associated with holding a single type of bond.
For instance, government bonds offer stability, corporate bonds provide higher yields and municipal bonds deliver tax advantages. This diversified approach balances risk and return, tailoring your portfolio to your objectives.
Incorporating bond mutual funds or ETFs into your portfolio adds another layer of flexibility. These funds allow you to hold a wide array of bonds managed by professionals, ensuring you capture opportunities across the market while enjoying ease of access. Pairing fixed-income funds with equities in a balanced portfolio can also stabilize overall performance by offsetting the volatility of stock investments.
Tax and regulatory factors play a significant role in shaping the returns and suitability of fixed-income investments.
Municipal bonds, for instance, offer tax-free interest income at the federal level and, in many cases, at the state and local levels as well, making them particularly attractive for high-income earners seeking tax efficiency. This benefit can significantly enhance after-tax returns, especially in higher tax brackets.
Conversely, corporate bonds do not provide these advantages, as the interest income is taxed as ordinary income, which can diminish their appeal for some investors.
Treasury bonds, while exempt from state and local taxes, are still subject to federal taxation. To mitigate tax liabilities, many investors hold fixed-income securities in tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s, where earnings can grow tax-deferred or tax-free, depending on the account type.
Fixed-income investments offer a reliable way to achieve predictable income, preserve capital and balance your portfolio’s risk. By understanding the various options and aligning them with your financial goals, you can create a stable foundation for your investment strategy.
To get started, explore some top brokerage accounts and choose the fixed-income investments that best meet your needs.
For long-term stability, Treasury bonds or municipal bonds might be ideal. If you’re seeking higher yields and are comfortable with more risk, corporate bonds could be a better fit. Those looking for liquidity and short-term options may prefer bond ETFs or certificates of deposit. Each option has unique benefits, so it’s crucial to assess your individual needs before deciding.
While generally safer than stocks, fixed-income investments are not without risk. Interest rate changes can affect bond prices, while inflation can erode real returns. Additionally, corporate bonds carry credit risk, and lack of diversification can expose portfolios to market volatility. Evaluating these risks can help you make informed decisions.
Yes, fixed-income investments are often considered a safe haven during recessions. Their lower risk and predictable income make them appealing when economic uncertainty leads to stock market volatility. Government bonds, in particular, tend to perform well as investors seek stability. Additionally, bond prices often rise when interest rates are cut to stimulate the economy, potentially boosting returns.
Interest rates have an inverse relationship with bond prices. When rates rise, existing bond prices typically fall because newer bonds offer higher yields, making older ones less attractive. Conversely, when rates decline, bond prices increase. This dynamic is important to consider when choosing fixed-income investments, particularly in a fluctuating rate environment.
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