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Multiple Choice
When are issuers more likely to call an outstanding bond issue?
A
When market interest rates have fallen below the bond's coupon rate
B
When market interest rates have risen above the bond's coupon rate
C
When the issuer's credit rating has been downgraded
D
When the bond is trading at a discount
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of callable bonds: Callable bonds are bonds that the issuer can redeem (or 'call') before their maturity date, typically at a premium to the face value. This feature benefits the issuer, not the bondholder.
Identify the key factor influencing the decision to call a bond: Issuers are more likely to call bonds when they can refinance the debt at a lower cost. This typically happens when market interest rates fall below the bond's coupon rate, allowing the issuer to issue new bonds at a lower interest rate.
Analyze the relationship between market interest rates and the bond's coupon rate: If market interest rates fall below the bond's coupon rate, the issuer can save money by calling the bond and reissuing new bonds at the lower prevailing rates.
Evaluate the other options provided: Rising market interest rates, a downgrade in the issuer's credit rating, or the bond trading at a discount do not provide financial incentives for the issuer to call the bond. These scenarios either increase the cost of refinancing or do not align with the issuer's financial interests.
Conclude that the correct scenario for calling a bond is when market interest rates have fallen below the bond's coupon rate, as this allows the issuer to reduce their interest expense.