Understanding Bonds
Some Risks to Consider
Interest rate risk
Prepayment risk
Default risk
Credit risk
Currency risk
Liquidity risk
Rates and Duration
Credit Ratings
The Importance of Credit Ratings:
In General, Bond Ratings Fall into Two Categories:
Asset Class
Investing Principles
Investment Products & Strategies
- Mutual Funds and Retirement Savings
- Tax-Advantaged Retirement Savings
- Understanding Closed-End Funds
- Understanding Separately Managed Accounts

Understanding Bonds - Risk, Rates, Ratings
A brochure outlining rates (and how they affect duration), risk and ratings when it comes to understanding bonds. Includes information about the specific types of risk to consider when investing.
Your financial advisor can help you develop a long-term investment plan with a balance of strategies that addresses your need for portfolio growth, income, capital preservation and risk management.
All investments involve risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Indexes are unmanaged, and not available for direct investment. Index returns do not include fees or sales charges.
Equity investments generally provide an opportunity for more capital appreciation than fixed income investments, but they are subject to greater market fluctuations.
Diversification does not assure a profit or protect against market loss.
As interest rates rise, the value of fixed income securities falls.
Any information, statement or opinion set forth herein is general in nature, is not directed to or based on the financial situation or needs of any particular investor, and does not constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results, or a recommendation with respect to any particular security or investment strategy or type of retirement account. Investors seeking financial advice regarding the appropriateness of investing in any securities or investment strategies should consult their financial professional.