Bonds

bondsThe premise of bonds is simple: you invest your money to an entity and, after a set period of time, that money matures and can be collected for more than what you invested. Some of the more popular bonds are government bonds, which have been used in the past to fund wars, public utilities, and various federal and state projects.

The main caveat to bonds is their limited returns and the possibility of that yield barely even surpassing inflation. However, the security of bonds is priceless. Bonds are all but sure things and even if the issuer goes bankrupt, bond holders (lenders) are the first to be paid out. Bonds have their place in any portfolio, as they provide lockdown stability and even some growth.

Gold, Silver Take Hits After FOMC Meeting

The meeting's minutes are released, and the dollar/euro exchange rate is adjusted.

Where Short Bonds Can Help Your Portfolio

Short term bond funds make sense in a portfolio when you are willing to take a little bit more risk for a little bit more return over money market yields.

A Less Certain Second Quarter Ahead

After a roaring Q1, a sell-off or sideways trading is a likely prospect. The key, as always, is to be properly allocated for either risk-on or risk-off trading.

5 Best Mutual Funds of the First Quarter

The first quarter's bull market jolted stocks, and a number of mutual funds followed suit. Here's a look at five of the best mutual funds, so far -- separated by investment class.

Don’t Thumb Your Nose at Low-Yield TIPS

A recent auction of TIPS saw the government bonds sell for a NEGATIVE yield -- but they still have a place in your fixed-income portfolio. Here's why.

Advance in Bonds a Sucker’s Rally?

Trade potential weakness in the bond market with an intermediate-term bear call spread.

5 Flaws of Target-Date Retirement Funds

The popularity of target-date funds inside 401(k) plans is soaring. But these types of retirement funds have major flaws that are being overlooked.

This Bull Is About Earnings Down the Road

The stock market's current level is based on earnings expectations six to nine months in the future. It's the "discounting effect" in action.

Is the T-Bond Bull Dead?

Not likely. Several factors say the recent spike in yields doesn't signal a long-term sell-off. The U.S. economy will have to get a lot stronger first.

Global Good News Sends Stocks Higher

A blizzard of positive U.S. and overseas reports combined to lift markets to new highs.

Have No Fear, Muni-Bond Investors

As long as you stick with quality and diversify, your muni portfolio should be safe and do well.

Bullish News on Jobs and From the Fed

Job growth continues to gain, companies are issuing record amounts of bonds, and the Fed keeps working to fight inflation -- all good signs for investors.

4 Dirt-Cheap Index Funds

With actively managed funds underperforming for five years running, it's a good time to check out low-cost index funds.

6 Dividend Stocks You Need to Watch

Utilities, a REIT, a pharma, a bond fund and a preferred fund that are worth keeping an eye on.

Greece’s New Debt: Same as the Old

Trading began on Monday, and already the new bonds are being deeply discounted.

Junk Bond Advice From a Pro

Investors searching for high yield can't miss what junk bonds are offering. But before falling for those high yields, listen to these insights and tips.

Time to Put Treasuries on Your Watch List

Bonds' yields have been in a tight formation for months. Where they break from here -- and what it means for stocks -- is the million-dollar question.

‘Fracking’ Fund Among 11 New ETFs

Fifty-seven new ETF funds have been brought to market in 2012. Say hello to the newest 11.

5 Bond Funds That Make Sense

Your best bet is to whip up your own custom blend of bonds. Here are 6 bond funds that would make tasty additions to anyone's recipe.