Date Posted: 
Tuesday, June 4, 2013

The Securities and Exchange Commission has issued an investor bulletin to educate individual investors about high-yield corporate bonds, also called "junk bonds."

A high-yield corporate bond is a type of corporate bond that offers a higher rate of interest because of its higher risk of default. When companies with a greater estimated default risk issue bonds, they may be unable to obtain an investment-grade bond credit rating. As a result, they typically issue bonds with higher interest rates in order to entice investors and compensate them for this higher risk.

High-yield bond issuers may be companies characterized as highly leveraged or those experiencing financial difficulties. Smaller or emerging companies may also have to issue high-yield bonds to offset unproven operating histories or because their financial plans may be considered speculative or risky.

Some investors with a greater risk tolerance may find high-yield corporate bonds attractive, particularly in low interest rate environments. If you are considering buying a high-yield bond, it is important that you understand the risks involved.

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