Zero-Coupon Bonds VS Regular Bonds
Zero-coupon bonds are bonds that do not make periodic interest payments, also known as coupon payments. Instead, they are issued at a discount to their face value, and the difference between the price they are given and their face value is considered the return to the investor.
In contrast, common bonds, also known as coupon bonds, make periodic interest payments to the investor, also known as coupons. The interest rate, or coupon rate, is fixed when the bond is issued, and the investor receives a predetermined amount of interest each period until the bond matures. At maturity, the investor also gets the face value of the bond.
Zero coupon bonds are generally less risky than regular ones because they do not depend on the issuer’s ability to make periodic interest payments. However, they also typically offer lower returns than traditional bonds because the investor receives income from the bond once it matures. Both types of bonds can be issued by governments or corporations and can trade both types on financial markets.
The Benefits of Zero-Coupon Bonds
Zero coupon bonds have several benefits over regular bonds. For one, they are much simpler in terms of structure and mechanics. There is no need to worry about coupons or interest payments, as all returns are delivered at maturity. This also means that there is no reinvestment risk – the risk that interest rates will increase and reduce the value of future interest payments.
Another benefit of zero-coupon bonds is that they offer investors a higher degree of price certainty. Because there are no periodic payments, the bond price will not fluctuate as much in response to changes in market conditions. This can make them an attractive option for investors concerned about market volatility.
Finally, zero-coupon bonds can be an attractive option for tax-efficient investing. The interest income from these bonds is taxed at the investor’s marginal rate, but it is not subject to capital gains tax. This can provide a significant advantage over other investments, such as stocks or mutual funds, which are subject to income and capital gains tax.
Read More:- convertible bonds
Differences from Regular Bonds
Zero-coupon bonds are a type of bond that does not make periodic interest payments, known as “coupons.” Instead, investors receive one lump-sum payment at the bond’s maturity date. The majority of corporate and government bonds are coupon bonds.
The critical difference between zero-coupon bonds and regular bonds is the timing of when investors receive their payments. With common bonds, investors receive both their interest payments and their return on the principal at maturity. With zero-coupon bonds, however, investors only receive their return of principal at maturity; all of the bond’s interest has been paid out along the way in the form of periodic coupon payments.
Another key difference is that zero-coupon bonds are often sold at a discount to their face value, while regular coupon bonds are typically sold at or near their face value. This is because, with common bonds, investors receive periodic interest payments, compensating them for holding the bond until it matures. With zero-coupon bonds, there are no regular interest payments, so the investor is taking on more risk by holding the bond until maturity.
As a result, investors demand a higher yield (i.e., a higher interest rate) from zero-coupon bonds than from regular coupon bonds.
Conclusion
When comparing different types of bonds, it is essential to consider your investment goals and timeframe before making a decision. Investors seeking higher returns may consider investing in zero-coupon bonds over common ones. Although zero-coupon bonds typically have longer terms, they offer the investor the ability to receive more outstanding payments at maturity.
