THE 10 MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT TREASURY BONDS.

Aug 9, 2023 | News

The Public Treasury, a body of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation, has been the focus of attention in recent days following the announcement of the issuance targets for upcoming auctions.

Specifically, the Public Treasury placed 4.5 billion euros this Tuesday in an auction of 6 and 12-month bonds, paying investors interest at around 4%.

In order to shed light on this type of investment, at CABRERA RODRIGUEZ ETL GLOBAL, we analyse the main issues regarding Government bonds at a time when private investors are showing great interest in acquiring this type of debt given its high profitability.

• What are the Government bonds and how do they work in the financial context?
Treasury bonds, in essence, are debt instruments issued by the Government for the purpose of financing its short-term operations. Issued as debt, these bonds act as loans that investors make to the Government in exchange for a yield in the form of interest.

• What are the key benefits that Treasury bond offer investors?
One of the most remarkable benefits that Treasury bonds offer investors is their combination of safety and liquidity. These investments are widely regarded as low risk because of the strong backing that comes from the issuing Government. In addition, the possibility to sell the bonds before maturity in the secondary market provides an additional source of liquidity, giving investors the ability to access their investment when needed.

• Who can participate in Treasury bond auctions?
Any individual or legal entity may apply within the stipulated deadlines, through any branch of the Banco de España, via the Public Treasury’s website, or through any financial institution (banks or savings banks).

• What is the difference between Treasury bonds and other types of debt instruments issued by the Government?
Unlike other Government debt instruments such as bonds and promissory notes, Treasury bonds have a shorter maturity, usually less than one year. This feature gives investors the flexibility to recover their investment in a relatively short period of time, often at competitive interest rates. This distinctive feature makes them an attractive option for those seeking to keep their capital in constant movement.

• How does the attractive interest rate of Treasury bonds affect investors and the market in general?
In a constantly changing economic environment, the attractive interest rates that Treasury bonds offer can be a magnet for investors, especially in times of uncertainty, as they are considered safe havens amidst volatility. However, it is important to note that while overall interest rates may be attractive, a change in the same can affect the yield relative to Treasury bonds.

• What are the potential risks associated with investing in Treasury bonds that prospective investors should be aware of?
Although Treasury bonds are widely regarded as safe investments, they are not without risk. One of the potential risks lies in the possibility that interest rates may change, which could have an impact on the market value of the bonds if they are sold before maturity. It is crucial that potential investors consider this variable when making investment portfolio decisions.

• How can investors balance their portfolio to maximise benefits?
The optimal strategy for maximising benefits from Treasury bonds involves integrating them with other higher-yielding assets in a diversified portfolio. Combining Treasury bonds with instruments that offer growth potential can help investors balance risks and rewards, creating a comprehensive and efficient approach to managing their investment portfolio.

 What is the role of Treasury bonds in public debt management and how do they impact on the country’s economy?
Treasury bonds play an essential role in the management of a country’s public debt. By acting as a reliable source of funding, they contribute to the smooth functioning of the Government and the preservation of economic stability. This critical role strengthens confidence in the Government and its ability to meet its financial commitments.

• Are there specific strategies that investors can use to make the most of the opportunities offered by Treasury bonds?
In order to maximise the opportunities presented by Treasury bonds, investors can adopt specific strategies. One common approach involves investing in Treasury bonds of different maturities, which allows for a continuous income flow and access to cash at different times. This tactic can be particularly useful in managing changing financial needs.

• How do international factors affect the demand for and yields on Treasury bonds in Spain?
In an interconnected world, international factors can have a significant impact on the demand and yield of Treasury bonds. The participation of foreign investors and fluctuations in global interest rates can influence the local dynamics of Treasury bonds in countries such as Spain. Sensitivity to these international factors underlines the importance of understanding the global context in which these investments operate.
From the above, it is more than evident that Treasury bonds stand out as a key element in the current financial panorama.

Cristina Suárez Acosta

Cristina Suárez Acosta

Abogada en CABRERA RODRIGUEZ ETL GLOBAL