Municipal Bond Forum

Bond Basics

Q

If I buy a bond, can I sell it before its maturity date? Will I lose any money? If a bond has a coupon rate of 6.125% and WCY of 3.64%, how much interest will I earn?

A.B., Connecticut

A

James A. Klotz responds:

Bonds are liquid investments that can be sold any time prior to maturity, without penalty. The price you receive will be based on market conditions at the time of sale.

“Coupon” refers to the fixed rate the bond pays annually until it matures. On a $100,000 investment, you would earn $6,125.00 per year. “WCY” stands for worst-case yield. This is the yield you would receive if the bond was called by the issuer prior to maturity.

Sep 7, 2005

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    This report is produced solely for informational purposes and is not to be construed as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any securities or related financial instruments. This report is based on information obtained from sources believed to be reliable but no independent verification has been made, nor is its accuracy or completeness guaranteed.