Municipal Bond Forum

Home > Municipal Bond Forum > Other Topics > What bond insurance does

What bond insurance does

Q

Can you explain what insurance is and how it works? What is the risk? Is a bond with insurance as safe as a CD with FDIC insurance?

D.R., New York

A

James A. Klotz responds:

In addition to being secured by the issuer through dedicated revenue streams, certain bonds are insured by private insurance companies for the timely payment of principal and interest.

The insurance companies carry ratings based on their financial strength.

This private bond insurance should not be confused with FDIC, which is deposit insurance backed by the full faith and credit of the federal government.

Jul 24, 2013

Start here.

Do you have specific criteria for bonds you’re looking for? Let us know and we’ll e-mail you bonds that fit your needs. There is no charge for this service.

    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.