Benefits of Including Investment-Grade Bonds

For investors seeking stable returns in their fixed-income portfolio

Over the last 15 years, investment-grade bonds have modestly outperformed Treasuries, making them an attractive option for investors seeking stable returns in their fixed-income portfolios.

But how many investors can articulate the reasons that have contributed to their outperformance or the potential benefits of including investment-grade bonds in a fixed-income portfolio?

Why Investment-Grade Bonds?

Higher Yields: Investment-grade bonds typically offer higher yields compared to Treasuries, as they carry a slightly higher credit risk due to being issued by corporations rather than the U.S. government. This yield premium allows investors to potentially earn higher income from their bond investments, contributing to their outperformance over time.

Credit Quality: Investment-grade bonds are rated BBB- or higher by credit rating agencies, indicating a relatively low probability of default. This ensures that investors can benefit from higher yields without taking on significant credit risk. Furthermore, during periods of economic expansion, credit quality tends to improve, making investment-grade bonds even more attractive.

Diversification Benefits: Investment-grade bonds offer exposure to a variety of industries and sectors, allowing investors to diversify their fixed-income portfolios. This diversification can help reduce the impact of any single issuer or sector on the overall portfolio's performance, contributing to their outperformance relative to Treasuries, which are solely issued by the U.S. government.

Benefits of Investment-Grade Bonds

Enhanced Income Potential: Including investment-grade bonds in a fixed-income portfolio can help investors generate higher income compared to a portfolio consisting solely of Treasuries. This increased income potential can be particularly appealing during periods of low interest rates when investors are seeking ways to boost their returns.

Risk Mitigation: Investment-grade bonds offer an attractive risk-reward profile, as they provide higher yields than Treasuries while maintaining relatively low credit risk. This balance can help investors achieve better risk-adjusted returns in their fixed-income portfolios.

Inflation Protection: Investment-grade bonds can help protect against inflation, as corporate issuers may be better equipped to pass on rising costs to consumers compared to the government. As a result, the yields on investment-grade bonds may be more resilient to inflationary pressures, providing investors with a degree of protection during inflationary environments.

Considerations for Investors

While investment-grade bonds have outperformed Treasuries over the past 15 years, it is essential for investors to consider their individual risk tolerance, investment objectives, and time horizon before incorporating these bonds into their fixed-income portfolios.

Further, it is absolutely crucial for investors to carefully consider their unique circumstances and objectives when thinking about incorporating investment-grade bonds into their investment strategies.

Nothing contained herein shall constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Material in this publication is original or from published sources and is believed to be accurate. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assume no liability for any resulting damages. Readers are cautioned to consult their own tax and investment professionals with regard to their specific situations.