Reaching for Yield in Corporate Bond Mutual Funds
The Review of Financial Studies (2018)
53 Pages Posted: 20 Nov 2014 Last revised: 4 Nov 2019
Date Written: November 1, 2017
Abstract
We examine "reaching for yield" in U.S. corporate bond mutual funds. We define reaching for yield as tilting portfolios toward bonds with yields higher than the benchmarks. We find that funds generate higher returns and attract more inflows when they reach for yield, especially in periods of low-interest rates. Returns for high reaching-for-yield funds nevertheless tend to be negative on a risk-adjusted basis. Funds engage in rank-chasing behavior by reaching for yield, although these incentives are moderated by the illiquid nature of corporate bonds. High reaching-for-yield funds hold less cash and less liquid bonds, exacerbating redemption risks.
Keywords: Reaching for yield, risk taking, corporate bonds, mutual funds, investment grade, high yield
JEL Classification: E44, G23, G28
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation