FYI: The topic of bond funds is especially pertinent given the current economic and geopolitical climate. While bonds are important regardless of the market cycle, they are especially important during periods of rising interest rates. That’s because bonds provide an important stop-gap against slowing economic growth and all the dangers that come with rising interest rates.
This aptly describes the current monetary policy paradigm in the United States. Against this backdrop, it pays to have a competent set of criteria for evaluating bond funds.
Regards,
Ted
http://mutualfunds.com/bond-funds/characteristics-of-bond-funds/