Bonds are loans investors make to issuers–corporations, governments, municipalities or other entities–so that those issuers can fund or expand operations. The issuer gets the cash it needs, while the lender earns interest for the term of the loan.

Bonds can be used as a "core" investment to build the foundation of a balanced portfolio. They offer a wide range of maturities, varying interest payment terms and different credit quality ratings to fit most portfolio needs. Bonds and other fixed-income instruments may also provide a good counterbalance when combined with equities because bonds typically fluctuate less than stocks.

We offer a wide range of fixed-income investment solutions reflecting the varied needs and preferences of our clients. Whether you are looking for income, growth or preservation of your invested principal, bonds may be an appropriate core holding for your portfolio.

For more information about the risks and benefits of fixed income investing, please review the “Smart Investing” section of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the “Learn More” section on investinginbonds.com, a resource created by the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA) to help educate investors. For additional information regarding municipal bonds, please access the “Education Center” section of emma.msrb.org, the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board’s (MSRB) official source for Municipal Disclosures and Market Data.

The rate of return on your tax-free bond might surprise you. Determine the Taxable Equivalent Yield of your municipal bonds.