Zero-Coupon Bonds Latest News
Recently, Power Finance Corporation withdrew zero-coupon bonds issuance due to weak investor demand. Â
About Zero-Coupon Bonds
- These are a debt instrument that does not pay periodic interest but is issued at a discount rate to its face value.
- These are also known as discount bonds, are issued at a discount on the bond’s face value and do not pay periodic interest to bondholders.
- They offer payment at face value at maturity so zero-coupon bonds tend to fluctuate in price on the secondary market much more than coupon bonds.
Advantages of Zero Coupon Bonds
- Varied investment horizon: These bonds suit investors with long-term and short-term investment motives.
- Less risky: These bonds are considered less risky than coupon bonds, as the investors have to buy and leave them until maturity.Â
Disadvantages of Zero Coupon Bonds
- Period: It is only suited for long-term investment purposes. People with short-term motives cannot invest in these bonds.
- No regular income: The investor does not get a fixed, steady income from such bonds.
What is a Bond?
- A bond is a financial instrument that promises a fixed return (face value) at the end of a specific period, unlike equity, which has no fixed term or guaranteed returns.
- Bonds are generally safer investments used to hedge against risks or act as a store of value.
- Bonds are used by companies, municipalities, states and sovereign governments to raise money to finance a variety of projects and activities.
 Source: BS
Zero-Coupon Bonds FAQs
Q1: What is a disadvantage of zero coupon bonds?
Ans: Volatility and interest rate risk
Q2: Who can issue zero coupon bonds?
Ans: Zero coupon bonds are issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on behalf of the Central Government