U.S. Treasury Bonds Under Pressure: Experts Suggest Non-Investment Grade Bond ETFs Are More Favorable

U.S. Treasury bonds have long been the go-to option for investors seeking safety. However, due to recent tariff wars and the unpredictable nature of President Trump, investor confidence in Treasuries has gradually diminished. Current statistics show that approximately 30% of foreign investors hold U.S. public debt, a significant decline from 50% during the financial crisis. Experts now recommend considering non-investment grade bond ETFs, as recent total returns indicate that these products outperform Treasuries.
Data shows that the Cathay 00945B bond ETF ranks number one in total returns, boasting a return of 6.3% with strong volatility resistance and stable high dividends. In the ten distributions since its listing last year, eight have reached 0.102 NT dollars, with two achieving 0.1 NT dollars, leading to an annualized yield approaching 8%.
Recent net asset value data indicates its earnings stabilization fund holds 0.1003 NT dollars, presenting the potential for additional 0.1 NT dollar distributions. According to a recent survey by the Investment Trust Association, there has been an increase in individuals investing in ETFs, with 60% preferring stable dividends, which highlights the continued appeal of regular passive income.
However, non-investment grade bonds carry the risk of collapsing during economic downturns. This ETF has excluded CCC-rated junk bonds, only selecting bonds rated BB to B. With the U.S. economy remaining strong and recent interest rate cuts improving corporate debt repayment capabilities, default rates have significantly decreased. Furthermore, if the Federal Reserve announces further interest rate reductions, bond prices may rise, providing not only dividend earnings but also capital gains.
With the ongoing uncertainty from Trump's tariff wars, the stock markets are unpredictable. Experts advise investors to consider accumulating non-investment grade bonds when prices are low, providing better opportunities for principal protection and stable cash flow. The earnings from bond interest can also be reinvested, significantly lowering holding costs, making it a survival strategy in turbulent times.
Investors should be aware of the risks associated with bond funds, including interest rate risks, liquidity issues in bond trading markets, and risks related to investing in non-secured corporate bonds.