Which investment approach aligns with increasing interest rates?

The choice to hold cash and sell bonds as an investment strategy aligns with increasing interest rates because of the inverse relationship between bond prices and interest rates. When interest rates rise, the prices of existing bonds typically fall. This is due to the fact that newer bonds are issued at higher interest rates, making existing bonds with lower rates less attractive. By selling bonds before they lose value and holding cash, an investor can avoid the potential loss in capital associated with declining bond prices.

In contrast, investing in high-yield stocks during a period of increasing rates may bring uncertainty, as such stocks can be influenced by rising rates and associated economic shifts. Buying more fixed-income securities could be counterproductive since rising interest rates would likely lead to a decline in their current value. Purchasing real estate can require a more nuanced understanding of how rising rates affect mortgage costs and property values, which can vary by market conditions. Therefore, the strategy of holding cash while selling bonds effectively positions an investor to navigate the challenges posed by increasing interest rates.