Before we can answer the question “should you invest in individual bonds or bond mutual funds”, we have to first understand the purpose of owning bonds in your portfolio. Novice investors use bonds as an income generator, relying on yields to supplement living expenses during retirement. Institutional investors and competent advisors, on the other hand, view bonds as a tool to reduce portfolio volatility. Total return, not just bond yield, is what counts. If the purpose of holding bonds is to control portfolio risk, then owning bond funds, not individual bonds, is the appropriate choice.

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