Bonds and fixed income strategies: a guide to low-risk investments (Basic)

This course is designed for investors who want to understand how bonds and fixed income strategies work. You will explore different types of bonds, learn how to select reliable securities, and discover how to integrate fixed income into a diversified portfolio.

Bonds are one of the most stable investment instruments, offering predictable returns. They are widely used in conservative portfolios and play a key role in reducing overall investment risk. This course will help you develop a solid understanding of how bonds function and how they can contribute to a balanced investment approach.

What’s included in the course?

Module 1: Fundamentals of bond investing

1. What are bonds, and why do companies and governments issue them?
2. Key types of bonds:
   • Government bonds (Treasuries, Gilts, Bunds)
   • Corporate bonds (Investment Grade and High-Yield)
   • Municipal bonds
   • Eurobonds
3. Understanding bond coupons and yield to maturity (YTM)

Module 2: Bond risks and returns

1. How bond yields are measured
2. The impact of interest rates on bond prices
3. Credit ratings and bond categories: AAA, BBB, Junk Bonds
4. Duration and sensitivity of bonds to market changes

Module 3: Selecting bonds for an investment portfolio

1. Bonds for conservative vs. balanced portfolios
2. Short-term vs. long-term bonds – differences and considerations
3. Bond investment strategies: “Laddering” and “Barbell” approach
4. How bonds stabilize a portfolio and manage volatility

Module 4: Bond ETFs and fixed income funds

1. What are bond ETFs, and how do they work?
2. Choosing the right bond fund (iShares, Vanguard Bond ETFs)
3. Comparing individual bonds and bond funds

Module 5: Practical bond investing strategies

1. Where and how to buy bonds
2. Analyzing the bond market and evaluating opportunities
3. Case studies on fixed income investment strategies
4. Using bonds during economic downturns and recessions

What you will learn:
✅ Understand different types of bonds and their mechanics
✅ Select bonds based on risk and return considerations
✅ Use bonds to reduce portfolio volatility
✅ Work with bond ETFs and fixed income funds
✅ Apply fixed income strategies in your investment portfolio

Who is this course for?
✔ Investors seeking stable and predictable income
✔ Beginners looking to understand how bonds work
✔ Those looking to reduce risk in their investment portfolios
✔ Individuals planning for long-term conservative investments

Format:

• Self-paced learning materials (PDF format)
• Practical examples and real-world case studies
• No prior investment experience required