Bonds affect thestock market because when bonds go down, stock prices tend to go up. The opposite also happens: when bond prices go up, stock prices tend to go down.
Bonds compete with stocks for investors' dollars because bonds are often consideredsafer thanstocks. However, bonds usually offer lower returns.
Stocks tend to do well when theeconomy is booming. When consumers are making more purchases, companies receive higher earnings thanks to higher demand, and investors feel confident. One of the best ways to beat inflation is to sell bonds and buy stocks when the economy is doing well. When the economy slows, consumers buy less, corporateprofitsfall, andstock prices decline. That's when investors prefer the regular interest payments guaranteed by bonds.
Key Takeaways
- Bonds affect thestock market because when bonds go down, stock prices go up. And when bond prices go up, stock prices tend to go down.
- Bonds are loans you make to a corporation or government; stocks are shares of ownership in a company.
- Whether bonds or stocks are better for you depends on your investment goals, but it's smart to have a diversified portfolio with a mix of both.
The Relationship Between Stocks and Bonds
Sometimes, both stocks and bonds can go up in value at the same time. This happens when there is toomuch money, orliquidity, chasing too few investments. It happensat the top of the market. It could occur when some investors are optimistic and others are pessimistic.
There also are times when stocks and bonds both fall. That tends to be when investors are in a panic and sell their investments.
UnderstandingBonds and Stocks
Bonds are loans you make to a corporation or government. The interest payments stay the same for the life of the loan. You receive the principal at the end if the corporation or government doesn't default.S&P ratings can tell you the likelihood of that happening before you invest in bonds.
A bond's value changes over time, which matters only if you want to sell it on the secondary market. Bond traders compare their returns, called the"yield,"to that of other bonds. Those with low interest rates or poor S&P ratings are worth less thanhigher-yielding bonds.
Stocks are shares of ownership in a company. Their values depend largely on corporate earnings, which corporations report each quarter. Stock values change daily, dependingon traders' estimates offuture earnings, compared to those of competing companies.
Are Bonds a Better Investment Than Stocks?
Whether bonds or stocks are abetter investmentfor you depends on two things. First, what are your personal goals? If you want to avoid losing your principal, enjoyreceiving regular payments, and aren't concerned aboutinflation, then bonds are for you. They might be preferable for you if you are retired or otherwise in need of using theinvestment income.
Note
Most financial plannerswill tell you thatbeing well-diversified is the best investment strategy.That meansyoushould have a mix of stocks and bonds in your portfolio at all times. Research has shown that over time, diversification brings the greatest return at the lowest risk. You can change the mix, orasset allocation, of stocks vs. bonds to respond to the business cycle and yourfinancial goals.
If you can hold on to your stocks even if the value drops, you don't need income, and you want to outpace inflation, then stocks offer more benefits. If you're young and have a well-paying job, then that’s the right target.
Second, how is the economy doing? In other words, what phaseof thebusiness cycleis it?If it's expanding, then stocks provide more benefits. This is because they are gaining value as earnings improve. If it's contracting, then bonds are a better investment. They will protect your investment while providing income.
The Federal Reserve, Bonds, and the Stock Market
TheFederal Reservecontrols interest rates through itsopen market operations. When theFed wantsinterest ratesto fall, it buysU.S. Treasury notes. That's the same as increasing demand for the nation's bonds, which makes their values rise. As with all bonds, when bond values rise, interest rates and stock prices tend to go down.
On the flip side, lower interest rates and lower bond values put upward pressure on stock pricesfor two reasons. First, bond buyers receive a lower interest rateand less return on their investments, whichforces them to consider buying higher-risk stocks to get a better return.
Second, lower interest rates make borrowing less expensive. They help companies that want to expand. They help homebuyers afford larger houses. They also help consumers who desire cars, furniture, and more education. As a result, low interest rates boost economic growth. They lead to higher corporate earnings and higher stock prices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What percentage of my investments should go toward stocks vs. bonds?
The ideal ratio of stocks and bonds will vary based on your investing goals and age. An extremely aggressive portfolio would have 90% or more invested in stocks. The higher the percentage of bonds that you add in, the less aggressive it becomes. Many financial planners recommend starting with mostly stocks when you're young and gradually shifting toward a more balanced portfolio as you get closer to retirement.
Which is paid first, stocks or bonds?
If a company goes bankrupt, lenders are the first to receive their money. Shareholders receive money last, if at all. Since bonds are a type of loan, you're more likely to be paid back if a company goes under.
Why do corporations issue bonds and stock?
Bonds and stocks are both ways for corporations to raise capital. Bonds allow a company to raise money without diluting ownership shares, but they require fixed repayment. Stocks can be a way to raise more money, but they reduce the shares (and returns) of existing owners.
