Changing Gears: No bonds, now what?

When the interest rate environment changes, investors face unique challenges, especially when it comes to replacing a maturing bond. For instance, many local investors hold the NROCC (National Road Operation and Construction Company Ltd.) 9.375% bond maturing in November. They received 50% of the principal in 2023, when yields and coupons were at record highs, allowing reinvestment at similar or better rates for the medium to long term. However, just a year later, these investors will struggle to find comparable yields.

If you find yourself unable to replace a bond with one offering a similar or better return, it may be time to change gears to a different type of investment. So, what are your alternatives when replacing a bond is not an ideal option?

If your financial situation allows for flexibility and you are not dependent on the income from your maturing bond, one attractive alternative to directly replacing it, is investing in bond mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs). These types of funds offer significant advantages, particularly in a declining interest rate environment, where reinvesting in individual bonds may be challenging.

Why Bond Funds Might Be a Better Option

Individual bonds provide fixed interest payments and return of principal at maturity, which appeal to investors seeking consistent income. However, in a declining interest rate environment, as bond yields drop, the prices of existing bonds typically rise, because their higher fixed coupon payments become more valuable compared to newly issued bonds. This can make it harder to achieve the same income levels as before. For investors who can afford to prioritize capital growth over income, bond funds offer a compelling alternative.

One of the key benefits of bond mutual funds and ETFs is diversification. By pooling investments across a wide range of bonds issued by different entities, across various sectors, and with varying maturities, these funds help mitigate the risks associated with holding individual bonds. This diversified approach can be particularly valuable in volatile or uncertain interest rate environments, where bond values can fluctuate significantly based on market conditions.

By reallocating to bond mutual funds or ETFs, you open the door to potential capital gains while continuing to benefit from fixed-income exposure. Moreover, bond funds are actively managed, allowing fund managers to adjust portfolios in response to interest rate changes and market conditions, which can further enhance returns.

Conclusion

When faced with the challenge of replacing a bond in a low- or declining rate environment, switching from an income-focused approach to a growth-oriented strategy may be the best option. Bond mutual funds or ETFs allow you to stay invested in bonds while benefiting from price appreciation rather than relying solely on income. However, bond funds are not for everyone and like all investments they carry risk so work with a licensed financial advisor to help ensure your investment choices align with your long-term financial goals and risk tolerance.

Toni-Ann Neita-Elliott, CFP is the Vice President, Sales & Marketing at Sterling Asset Management. Sterling provides financial advice and instruments in U.S. dollars and other hard currencies to the corporate, individual and institutional investor. Visit our website at www.sterling.com.jm  

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