Commentary
Fixed Income
What's the Bigger Risk: Bond Market Bubble or Complacency?
by Kathy A Jones
August 24, 2017
We don’t think fleeing bond investors are poised to trigger a collapse in the bond market, but caution is in order as a moderate rise in yields looks likely.
by Kathy A Jones
August 24, 2017
We don’t think fleeing bond investors are poised to trigger a collapse in the bond market, but caution is in order as a moderate rise in yields looks likely.
LIBOR Phase-Out: What Does It Mean for You?
by Collin Martin
August 22, 2017
The London Interbank Offered Rate, a key benchmark for many types of loans and investments, is expected to disappear in 2021. Here’s how the phase-out could affect investors.
by Collin Martin
August 22, 2017
The London Interbank Offered Rate, a key benchmark for many types of loans and investments, is expected to disappear in 2021. Here’s how the phase-out could affect investors.
Income for Life: Using Deferred Income Annuities in Retirement
by Robert G Aruldoss
August 08, 2017
DIAs give you guaranteed income for life, without having to commit as much of your savings as you would with an immediate annuity.
by Robert G Aruldoss
August 08, 2017
DIAs give you guaranteed income for life, without having to commit as much of your savings as you would with an immediate annuity.
Credit Ratings: How to Evaluate Muni Bonds
by Cooper J Howard
August 03, 2017
Credit ratings can be a helpful tool with assembling and monitoring a portfolio of municipal bonds.
by Cooper J Howard
August 03, 2017
Credit ratings can be a helpful tool with assembling and monitoring a portfolio of municipal bonds.
Potential Trouble Spots in the High-Yield Bond Market
by Collin Martin
August 03, 2017
High-yield corporate bonds generally have posted strong returns so far this year, but energy and retail bond issuers appear vulnerable.
by Collin Martin
August 03, 2017
High-yield corporate bonds generally have posted strong returns so far this year, but energy and retail bond issuers appear vulnerable.
Dollar Decline: Time to Shift to International Bonds? Maybe Not
by Kathy A Jones
July 12, 2017
The U.S. dollar weakened in the first half of 2017, leading some investors to wonder whether a key attraction of U.S. bonds is likely to fade away—and whether they should consider investing in international developed market bonds instead. Here’s what investors should know.
by Kathy A Jones
July 12, 2017
The U.S. dollar weakened in the first half of 2017, leading some investors to wonder whether a key attraction of U.S. bonds is likely to fade away—and whether they should consider investing in international developed market bonds instead. Here’s what investors should know.
Corporate Bond Market Mid-Year Outlook: Further Price Gains Unlikely This Year
by Collin Martin
July 06, 2017
Rising prices drove corporate fixed income returns in the first half of the year, but don’t expect that to continue. Coupon payments will likely drive returns the rest of the year
by Collin Martin
July 06, 2017
Rising prices drove corporate fixed income returns in the first half of the year, but don’t expect that to continue. Coupon payments will likely drive returns the rest of the year
Muni Bond Market Mid-Year Outlook: Why the Strong 2017 Performance Likely Won’t Continue
by Cooper J Howard
July 05, 2017
Muni bonds have posted solid returns in 2017. Less-attractive valuations and the prospects of tax reform could pose a challenge in the second half.
by Cooper J Howard
July 05, 2017
Muni bonds have posted solid returns in 2017. Less-attractive valuations and the prospects of tax reform could pose a challenge in the second half.
Bond Market Mid-Year Outlook: Redefining the Borders of ‘Lower for Longer’
by Kathy A Jones
June 16, 2017
In the second half of 2017, we expect10-year Treasury yields to remain in a 2% to 2.5% range, consistent with the eight-year “lower for longer” theme in the bond market.
by Kathy A Jones
June 16, 2017
In the second half of 2017, we expect10-year Treasury yields to remain in a 2% to 2.5% range, consistent with the eight-year “lower for longer” theme in the bond market.
Fed Raises Rates, Sticks With Plans for One More Hike This Year
by Kathy A Jones
June 14, 2017
As expected, the Federal Reserve raised its benchmark target rate at its June meeting. However, the market seems less concerned about inflation than the Fed does.
by Kathy A Jones
June 14, 2017
As expected, the Federal Reserve raised its benchmark target rate at its June meeting. However, the market seems less concerned about inflation than the Fed does.
Corporate Bonds vs. Municipal Bonds: What Investors Should Know
by Cooper J Howard and Collin Martin
June 07, 2017
How do you choose between municipal bonds and investment grade corporate bonds? The answer isn’t always straightforward.
by Cooper J Howard and Collin Martin
June 07, 2017
How do you choose between municipal bonds and investment grade corporate bonds? The answer isn’t always straightforward.
Retirement Savings Milestones: How Much Should You Have Now?
by Rob Williams
June 02, 2017
Measuring progress toward your retirement goals isn’t easy, so we created some milestones you can use to see how your savings stack up.
by Rob Williams
June 02, 2017
Measuring progress toward your retirement goals isn’t easy, so we created some milestones you can use to see how your savings stack up.
Will the Fed Reduce Its Balance Sheet? What Bond Investors Should Know
by Kathy A Jones
June 01, 2017
The Federal Reserve may soon announce plans to reduce the size of its balance sheet. What does that mean, and should bond investors be concerned?
by Kathy A Jones
June 01, 2017
The Federal Reserve may soon announce plans to reduce the size of its balance sheet. What does that mean, and should bond investors be concerned?
Gimme Three Steps … and a Stumble?
by Liz Ann Sonders
May 22, 2017
The Fed will continue to raise rates, which shouldn’t alarm investors; but the addition of quantitative tightening (QT) via balance sheet shrinkage could drive volatility.
by Liz Ann Sonders
May 22, 2017
The Fed will continue to raise rates, which shouldn’t alarm investors; but the addition of quantitative tightening (QT) via balance sheet shrinkage could drive volatility.
6 Things Investors Should Know About Municipal Bond Insurance
by Cooper J Howard
May 04, 2017
The number of newly issued munis carrying insurance has climbed over the past few years. What should investors know about municipal bond insurance?
by Cooper J Howard
May 04, 2017
The number of newly issued munis carrying insurance has climbed over the past few years. What should investors know about municipal bond insurance?
Three Reasons to Own Bonds When the Fed is Raising Interest Rates
by Kathy A Jones
April 19, 2017
Even in a rising rate environment, bonds can offer three key benefits: diversification, capital preservation and income.
by Kathy A Jones
April 19, 2017
Even in a rising rate environment, bonds can offer three key benefits: diversification, capital preservation and income.
What Investors Should Know About the High-Yield Bond Rally
by Collin Martin
April 11, 2017
While high-yield bond prices have risen sharply over the past year, investors should be mindful of potential risks, such as low oil prices.
by Collin Martin
April 11, 2017
While high-yield bond prices have risen sharply over the past year, investors should be mindful of potential risks, such as low oil prices.
Emerging Market Bonds: Can the Hot Start In 2017 Continue?
by Kathy A Jones
April 06, 2017
Emerging market bond prices have surged in 2017, but valuations are stretched and risks remain.
by Kathy A Jones
April 06, 2017
Emerging market bond prices have surged in 2017, but valuations are stretched and risks remain.
Not Always Tax Free: 7 Municipal Bond Tax Traps
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
April 04, 2017
If you're interested in tax-free municipal bonds, you might want to keep an eye out for these seven tax traps.
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
April 04, 2017
If you're interested in tax-free municipal bonds, you might want to keep an eye out for these seven tax traps.
Fed Raises Rates, Signals Additional Hikes in 2017
by Collin Martin
March 15, 2017
The Federal Reserve just raised short term interest rates—again. Here’s what investors should know.
by Collin Martin
March 15, 2017
The Federal Reserve just raised short term interest rates—again. Here’s what investors should know.
Is Your State Muni Bond Fund Investing Elsewhere? Why It Matters
by Cooper J Howard
March 13, 2017
While it’s common for fund managers to invest in out-of-state bonds, a large allocation to territories with declining credit conditions could be concerning.
by Cooper J Howard
March 13, 2017
While it’s common for fund managers to invest in out-of-state bonds, a large allocation to territories with declining credit conditions could be concerning.
What You Should Know About Convertible Bonds
by Collin Martin
March 08, 2017
Convertible bonds may generate attractive returns when stocks rise, but they differ greatly from traditional fixed income investments.
by Collin Martin
March 08, 2017
Convertible bonds may generate attractive returns when stocks rise, but they differ greatly from traditional fixed income investments.
Closed-End Bond Funds: How They Work and What You Should Know As Rates Rise
by Kathy A Jones
March 02, 2017
Closed-end bond funds are a popular way for investors to garner extra yield when interest rates are low, but rising rates can negatively affect their performance. Here’s what you should know about these investments.
by Kathy A Jones
March 02, 2017
Closed-end bond funds are a popular way for investors to garner extra yield when interest rates are low, but rising rates can negatively affect their performance. Here’s what you should know about these investments.
What would a shake-up at the Fed mean for bond investors?
by Kathy A Jones
February 28, 2017
Significant turnover will likely hit the Fed in the next few years. The changes may result in a shift in the way the Fed sets policy.
by Kathy A Jones
February 28, 2017
Significant turnover will likely hit the Fed in the next few years. The changes may result in a shift in the way the Fed sets policy.
Should Muni Investors Be Concerned About Pensions?
by Cooper J Howard
February 07, 2017
Dallas recently joined the list of major cities to see its credit ratings downgraded in the face of pension struggles. What does it mean for muni investors?
by Cooper J Howard
February 07, 2017
Dallas recently joined the list of major cities to see its credit ratings downgraded in the face of pension struggles. What does it mean for muni investors?
Corporate Defaults: What Investors Should Know When A Bond Issuer Goes Bankrupt
by Collin Martin
February 02, 2017
With the corporate default rate rising, investors may be wondering what they should do if their corporate bond issuer goes bankrupt.
by Collin Martin
February 02, 2017
With the corporate default rate rising, investors may be wondering what they should do if their corporate bond issuer goes bankrupt.
Short-Term Bonds: Why They Could Outperform As Interest Rates Rise
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
February 02, 2017
Bonds with shorter durations may outperform medium-term and long-term bonds if the Federal Reserve continues to raise interest rates.
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
February 02, 2017
Bonds with shorter durations may outperform medium-term and long-term bonds if the Federal Reserve continues to raise interest rates.
Anatomy of a Bond Bear Market: What to Look For When Yields Rise
by Kathy A Jones
January 19, 2017
With yields surging from last summer’s record lows, are bonds at the start of a long-term bear market? To answer that question, you must first determine what constitutes a bear market in bonds.
by Kathy A Jones
January 19, 2017
With yields surging from last summer’s record lows, are bonds at the start of a long-term bear market? To answer that question, you must first determine what constitutes a bear market in bonds.
Discount Munis: What You Need to Know About Taxes
by Cooper J Howard
January 13, 2017
Municipal bonds can offer tax-free income, but bonds purchased at discounted prices could be subject to variable tax rates.
by Cooper J Howard
January 13, 2017
Municipal bonds can offer tax-free income, but bonds purchased at discounted prices could be subject to variable tax rates.
Floaters vs. Bank Loans: What You Should Know as Rates Rise
by Collin Martin
January 10, 2017
Rising interest rates add to the appeal of floating-rate coupons, but not all investments in this category offer the same risks and rewards.
by Collin Martin
January 10, 2017
Rising interest rates add to the appeal of floating-rate coupons, but not all investments in this category offer the same risks and rewards.
Will the U.S. Dollar Bull Market Continue in 2017?
by Kathy A Jones
January 05, 2017
The U.S. dollar looks set to continue rising this year, but the risks to the rally increase as the bull market ages.
by Kathy A Jones
January 05, 2017
The U.S. dollar looks set to continue rising this year, but the risks to the rally increase as the bull market ages.
Inflation Is Rising: Time to Consider Treasury-Inflation Protected Securities?
by Collin Martin
December 20, 2016
Inflation is trending higher and TIPS are still priced below their historical averages. Is now the time to consider some inflation protection?
by Collin Martin
December 20, 2016
Inflation is trending higher and TIPS are still priced below their historical averages. Is now the time to consider some inflation protection?
Changing Conditions: A Bond Market FAQ
by Kathy A Jones
December 13, 2016
Yields have surged and potential changes in taxes, government spending and interest rates could make the bond market more volatile. What does it mean to investors?
by Kathy A Jones
December 13, 2016
Yields have surged and potential changes in taxes, government spending and interest rates could make the bond market more volatile. What does it mean to investors?
Corporate Bonds: Income May Drive Potential Returns in 2017
by Collin Martin
December 08, 2016
With yields poised to rise, income payments—rather than price gains—may drive potential total returns in the corporate bond market in 2017.
by Collin Martin
December 08, 2016
With yields poised to rise, income payments—rather than price gains—may drive potential total returns in the corporate bond market in 2017.
Bond Market Outlook: Higher Rates and Known Unknowns
by Kathy A Jones
December 01, 2016
The incoming administration’s proposals for taxes, spending and trade could create waves in the bond market. Caution may be in order.
by Kathy A Jones
December 01, 2016
The incoming administration’s proposals for taxes, spending and trade could create waves in the bond market. Caution may be in order.
Muni Bonds: Making Sense of the Post-Election Landscape
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
November 22, 2016
The potential for lower taxes and an increase in infrastructure spending could hurt muni prices in the short term, but we still feel they can make sense for high-income earners.
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
November 22, 2016
The potential for lower taxes and an increase in infrastructure spending could hurt muni prices in the short term, but we still feel they can make sense for high-income earners.
Can Bond Funds Make Sense When Interest Rates Rise?
by Rob Williams
November 17, 2016
Bond funds can experience price swings when interest rates rise, but potentially higher total returns over time can help you recover.
by Rob Williams
November 17, 2016
Bond funds can experience price swings when interest rates rise, but potentially higher total returns over time can help you recover.
Premium Bonds: What’s the Attraction?
by Collin Martin
November 15, 2016
Paying more for a bond than you stand to get back at maturity may seem like a losing proposition, but premium bonds can offer attractive returns and price stability.
by Collin Martin
November 15, 2016
Paying more for a bond than you stand to get back at maturity may seem like a losing proposition, but premium bonds can offer attractive returns and price stability.
Change Is in the Air: A Post-Election Look at Bonds
by Kathy A Jones
November 09, 2016
The election results look set to continue the shift toward increased fiscal spending and higher inflation, but some caveats are in order.
by Kathy A Jones
November 09, 2016
The election results look set to continue the shift toward increased fiscal spending and higher inflation, but some caveats are in order.
Opposing Views: How the Candidates’ Tax Plans Could Affect Muni Bonds
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
October 20, 2016
Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton have put forward very different tax plans. What do those plans mean for municipal bond investors?
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
October 20, 2016
Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton have put forward very different tax plans. What do those plans mean for municipal bond investors?
Back to School with Municipal Bonds
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
September 27, 2016
School district bonds can bring high credit quality and diversity to a portfolio of municipal bonds.
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
September 27, 2016
School district bonds can bring high credit quality and diversity to a portfolio of municipal bonds.
Quality Check: High-Yield vs. Investment-Grade Bonds
by Collin Martin
September 20, 2016
High valuations and weakening fundamentals suggest the case for high-yield bonds isn’t as compelling as that for investment-grade bonds. Yield seekers rethinking their risk tolerance should take note.
by Collin Martin
September 20, 2016
High valuations and weakening fundamentals suggest the case for high-yield bonds isn’t as compelling as that for investment-grade bonds. Yield seekers rethinking their risk tolerance should take note.
Is it Time to Consider Bank Loan Funds?
by Collin Martin
August 25, 2016
Bank loans offer relatively high income potential and may actually benefit from a Fed rate hike. But investors should also consider their risks.
by Collin Martin
August 25, 2016
Bank loans offer relatively high income potential and may actually benefit from a Fed rate hike. But investors should also consider their risks.
Munis: How to Invest in Infrastructure-Backed Bonds
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
August 02, 2016
Politicians are talking more about the need to invest in America’s infrastructure. Here’s what you need to know about investing in revenue-backed municipal bonds.
by Cooper J Howard and Rob Williams
August 02, 2016
Politicians are talking more about the need to invest in America’s infrastructure. Here’s what you need to know about investing in revenue-backed municipal bonds.
Waiting for a Fed Rate Hike: Bond Investments That May Make Sense Now
by Collin Martin
June 09, 2016
The Federal Reserve is likely to raise rates again this year, but that doesn’t mean fixed-income investors need to wait on the sidelines for a better entry point.
by Collin Martin
June 09, 2016
The Federal Reserve is likely to raise rates again this year, but that doesn’t mean fixed-income investors need to wait on the sidelines for a better entry point.
Bond Ladders: A Useful Tool for Retirement Income
by Rob Williams
April 18, 2016
Bond ladders can help you manage cash needs in retirement, allowing you potentially to take more risk elsewhere in your portfolio.
by Rob Williams
April 18, 2016
Bond ladders can help you manage cash needs in retirement, allowing you potentially to take more risk elsewhere in your portfolio.
Looking for Extra Yield? The Case for Preferreds
by Collin Martin
April 11, 2016
Preferreds share characteristics with both stocks and bonds, and offer higher yields than most traditional fixed income investments.
by Collin Martin
April 11, 2016
Preferreds share characteristics with both stocks and bonds, and offer higher yields than most traditional fixed income investments.
How to Build a Bond Portfolio
by Rob Williams
March 21, 2016
The bond market is large and complex, so it helps to focus on bonds that provide diversification, stability and income.
by Rob Williams
March 21, 2016
The bond market is large and complex, so it helps to focus on bonds that provide diversification, stability and income.
Market Volatility: What If You Don’t Have Time to Recover?
by Rob Williams
March 09, 2016
When the market drops, it's generally a good idea to stick to your long-term investment plan. But what if you don’t have time to recover?
by Rob Williams
March 09, 2016
When the market drops, it's generally a good idea to stick to your long-term investment plan. But what if you don’t have time to recover?
Is That High-Yield Bond Too Good to Be True?
by Collin Martin
February 25, 2016
High-yield bonds may look appealing, but they come with additional default and volatility risks.
by Collin Martin
February 25, 2016
High-yield bonds may look appealing, but they come with additional default and volatility risks.
Corporate Bond Investors: Check Your Sectors
by Collin Martin
February 18, 2016
The recent drop in commodity prices is a reminder that sector risk can shake up the corporate bond market.
by Collin Martin
February 18, 2016
The recent drop in commodity prices is a reminder that sector risk can shake up the corporate bond market.
Investing in Bonds: Should You Choose Individual Bonds or Bond Funds?
by Rob Williams
December 09, 2015
When investing in bonds, should you choose individual bonds or bond funds? Here are a few guidelines.
by Rob Williams
December 09, 2015
When investing in bonds, should you choose individual bonds or bond funds? Here are a few guidelines.
Getting to Know Pre-Refunded Bonds
by Cooper J Howard
September 10, 2015
Looking for high-credit quality bonds? Consider "Pre-Re's."
by Cooper J Howard
September 10, 2015
Looking for high-credit quality bonds? Consider "Pre-Re's."
Video | Bond Snapshot: Back to Bond Basics – Why Own Bonds?
by Kathy A Jones
August 10, 2015
Why own bonds if the Fed is raising interest rates? Join Kathy Jones for a discussion of the bond market and how the Fed rate hike might affect your investments.
by Kathy A Jones
August 10, 2015
Why own bonds if the Fed is raising interest rates? Join Kathy Jones for a discussion of the bond market and how the Fed rate hike might affect your investments.
Corporate Bonds vs. Municipals: Which Make More Sense Now?
by Rob Williams and Collin Martin
April 29, 2015
With after-tax yields comparable to corporate bonds, are municipals now an opportunity for traditional corporate bond investors?
by Rob Williams and Collin Martin
April 29, 2015
With after-tax yields comparable to corporate bonds, are municipals now an opportunity for traditional corporate bond investors?
How to Create a Sustainable Retirement Spending Plan
by Rob Williams
February 25, 2015
To set up a sustainable retirement spending plan, we recommend tapping multiple sources of cash flow.
by Rob Williams
February 25, 2015
To set up a sustainable retirement spending plan, we recommend tapping multiple sources of cash flow.
Should You Worry About Bond Mutual Funds if Interest Rates Rise?
by Rob Williams
September 16, 2014
What impact might rising rates have on bond mutual funds?
by Rob Williams
September 16, 2014
What impact might rising rates have on bond mutual funds?
Do You Have Money Smarts?
by Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
August 28, 2014
Don’t let these common money myths derail your finances.
by Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
August 28, 2014
Don’t let these common money myths derail your finances.
When Is the Best Time to File for Social Security Benefits?
by Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
April 28, 2014
Don't lose out on valuable benefits by collecting Social Security too early. Carefully weigh your options to get the best return on your money.
by Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
April 28, 2014
Don't lose out on valuable benefits by collecting Social Security too early. Carefully weigh your options to get the best return on your money.
How Do Annuities Work? Find Out Before Taking the Plunge
by Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
April 28, 2014
Some annuities are better than others: Find out how annuities work, what to consider, and whether purchasing one can be a smart move for you.
by Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
April 28, 2014
Some annuities are better than others: Find out how annuities work, what to consider, and whether purchasing one can be a smart move for you.
Newly Retired? Fresh Ideas for Managing Your Retirement Income
by Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
March 19, 2014
When tapping into your retirement accounts, learn which accounts and investments to draw from first.
by Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
March 19, 2014
When tapping into your retirement accounts, learn which accounts and investments to draw from first.
9 Tips to Help Maximize Your Retirement Nest Egg
by Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
March 18, 2014
Now that you've built your retirement nest egg, learn the best ways to help maximize it.
by Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
March 18, 2014
Now that you've built your retirement nest egg, learn the best ways to help maximize it.
Building Bond Ladders for Income
by Kathy A Jones
February 04, 2014
Building a bond ladder can help you earn income now. Plus, bond ladders give you the flexibility to reinvest in higher-yielding bonds if interest rates rise.
by Kathy A Jones
February 04, 2014
Building a bond ladder can help you earn income now. Plus, bond ladders give you the flexibility to reinvest in higher-yielding bonds if interest rates rise.
Preferred Securities: Higher Yields, Different Risks
by Collin Martin
October 01, 2013
If the higher yields of preferred securities have caught your eye, here's what you need to know before you invest.
by Collin Martin
October 01, 2013
If the higher yields of preferred securities have caught your eye, here's what you need to know before you invest.
Municipal Bonds: When 'Tax-Free' Isn't So Free
by Rande Spiegelman
August 07, 2013
Municipal bonds have long been an attractive investment option for tax-sensitive investors. But sometimes, munis may not be so tax free after all.
by Rande Spiegelman
August 07, 2013
Municipal bonds have long been an attractive investment option for tax-sensitive investors. But sometimes, munis may not be so tax free after all.
Two Types of Annuities for Retirement Income
by Rob Williams
March 27, 2013
After working hard to save for retirement, you'll need to manage market risk and generate income that lasts—annuities are one tool that can help.
by Rob Williams
March 27, 2013
After working hard to save for retirement, you'll need to manage market risk and generate income that lasts—annuities are one tool that can help.
Shopping for a Fixed Annuity
by Rande Spiegelman
October 18, 2012
Here's how to evaluate whether an immediate fixed annuity makes sense for you—and how to get the best deal.
by Rande Spiegelman
October 18, 2012
Here's how to evaluate whether an immediate fixed annuity makes sense for you—and how to get the best deal.
Lump Sum Vs. Annuity
by Rande Spiegelman
June 29, 2012
Should you take a lump sum or a monthly paycheck for life? How to decide.
by Rande Spiegelman
June 29, 2012
Should you take a lump sum or a monthly paycheck for life? How to decide.
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