Fixed income
Aggregate bonds refer to a broad category of fixed-income securities that encompass various types of bonds, including government bonds, corporate bonds, municipal bonds, and mortgage-backed securities. These bonds are grouped together to provide a comprehensive view of the bond market as a whole.
Aggregate bond indices
The term is often associated with indices, such as the Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Index, which tracks the performance of the investment grade bond market in the US. These indices typically include securities with varying maturities and risk levels, offering a diversified snapshot of the bond market.
Purpose of aggregate bonds
Aggregate bonds are commonly used by investors, fund managers, and financial institutions to:
Benchmark the performance of the bond market
Diversify investment portfolios by including a mix of bond types
Track market trends, yields, and risks across different sectors
A long history of innovation
Key characteristics
Diversity: Aggregate bonds include a wide range of fixed income securities, ensuring broad market representation.
Focus on investment grade: Most aggregate bond indices focus on investment grade securities, excluding high yield bonds.
Market insight: They provide insights into interest rate trends, credit quality, and sector performance.
