What is the relationship between bond prices and interest rates?

The relationship between bond prices and interest rates is inversely correlated, meaning when interest rates rise, bond prices typically fall, and conversely, when interest rates decline, bond prices tend to increase. This happens because existing bonds with fixed interest payments become less attractive when new bonds are issued at higher interest rates, leading to a decrease in demand for the older bonds. Similarly, if interest rates fall, existing bonds with higher interest payments become more desirable, pushing up their prices. Understanding this inverse correlation is crucial for investors as it impacts the valuation of bonds within a portfolio, influencing investment strategies based on interest rate movements.