A security such as a bond that pays a specified cash flow over a specific period of time.
A type of security that pays fixed interest at regular intervals. These comprise gilt-edged securities, bonds (taxable and tax-free), preference shares and debentures. Less risky than equity shares and have little scope for capital appreciation.
A security that pays a fixed rate of return. This term is usually used in reference to government, corporate or municipal bonds, which pay a fixed rate of interest until the bonds mature, and to preferred stock, which pay a fixed dividend. Fixed income securities offer the guarantee of a fixed return, but do not offer an investor much, if any, potential for growth.
An investment representing an indebtedness on the part of the obligor and having the basic characteristic of providing for periodic payments of investment return and repayment on a specified date of the principal amount of the investment. Certain forms of indebtedness that do not provide for periodic payments of a fixed amount of interest income ( e.g., variable rate demand obligations, zero coupon bonds) nonetheless generally are considered to be fixed income securities.
A preferred stock or debt instrument that has a stipulated interest or dividend rate, e.g., a bond or GIC. This term is often used in reference to an overall investment policy, e.g., fixed income of a portfolio.
A security whose nominal (or current dollar) yield is fixed or determined with certainty at the time of purchase.
A security that pays a specific rate of interest. Bonds are fixed-interest securities.