Zero-coupon bonds are the ones that do not pay interest during the bond’s lifetime. Investors buy these instruments at a discount from their face value, which is the amount that they get when the bond matures. Generally, these zero-coupon bonds have long-term maturity periods that may even last for decades. These allow people to plan for long-term finances and put away a small amount of money that will grow with time.
One can purchase many different kinds of zero-coupon bonds issued from a variety of sources and leave them to generate interest at maturity. Understand how zero-coupon bonds work and determine who should invest in these bonds.
How do Zero-Coupon Bonds Work?
Zero-coupon bonds repay their par value at maturity. The difference between the par value and the purchase price represents the investor’s received return. It is equal to the invested principal amount, along with the semi-annual compounding and the interest earned at a stated yield.
The interest received on a zero-coupon bond is called an imputed interest. It means that it is not an established interest rate but an estimated interest rate for the bond.
Who Should Invest in the Zero-Coupon Bonds?
Zero-coupon bonds are particular kinds of financial instruments that are suitable for investors who are looking for certain needs and want to meet their financial goals. Therefore, the following are the investors who should look into zero-coupon bonds.
Risk Averse Investors
Zero-coupon bonds come with fixed returns, and they are comparatively less risky than many other bonds in the market. So, they are great for conservative investors who want to play it safe.
Long-Term Investors
The zero-coupon bonds are great for those who are focused on a substantial lump sum payout in the future instead of receiving periodic interest payments. As such, it’s great for long-term investors who can leave their bonds alone for at least more than a decade.
Portfolio Diversification
If an investor is aiming to grow their investment portfolio, then having a zero-coupon bond is a great way to diversify themselves. These bonds provide guaranteed returns after a certain period, and they do not require much effort.
Investors with Certain Future Financial Needs
Investing in zero-coupon bonds means receiving the full face value at the end of its maturity. So, they are great for fulfilling any future obligations, including retirement, children’s education, marriage, etc.
Wrapping Up!
Zero-coupon bonds have several benefits that are great for investors. It has guaranteed returns along with no reinvested risk. You will not have any risk related to reinvesting your interest. There is also no need to worry about looking for new investment opportunities since there are no periodic payments. It also has a long-term horizon that is great for people with long-range financial goals.
FAQs About Zero-Coupon Bonds.
1. How can I price a zero-coupon bond?
One of the primary factors one must consider when computing the price of the zero-coupon bond is the imputed interest rate. So, you can follow the below equation to find out about the price.
Zero-coupon bond’s price = Maturity Value / (1 + required interest rate) ^ Number of years to maturity.
2. How is a zero-coupon bond different from a regular bond?
The key difference between a regular and a zero-coupon bond is the payment of interest. Investors do not get any regular interest payments with the zero-coupon bonds. Instead, they get a single payout at the date of maturity. Whereas investors will receive frequent interest payments when investing in ordinary bonds.
3. What is the investment horizon for zero-coupon bonds?
The typical investment horizon for a zero-coupon bond is between 10 to 15 years. However, investors can always choose a longer maturity date since the longer the period is, the less you will have to pay for it.
