Convertible Securities
Convertible securities are a type of investment instrument that provide investors with the option to convert the security into another security, usually a common stock, at some predetermined time and at a predetermined price. Convertible securities have characteristics of both debt and equity. This is beneficial to the investor because it offers the ability to diversify their portfolio without taking on the additional risk of non-convertible debt.
The various types of convertible securities include convertible bonds, convertible preferred stocks and convertible debentures. Generally, the conversion option is available to the holder of the security when specific events occur or upon a predetermined date. These events or dates are part of the terms of the convertible security. The most common conversion events are stock splits or dividends paid in form of additional shares of common stock.
Convertible securities offer investors the opportunity to participate in the potential gain of an underlying stock while also providing a fixed rate of return through interest and dividends. A convertible security allows investors to buy a bond or preferred stock and receive a fixed rate of return that is secured through the credit rating of the issuer. The security may also provide an upside potential that is closely tied to the underlying stock and its performance over time.
Convertible securities also offer investors protection against downside risk should the underlying stock falter. This is because the investor is not taking on the same amount of risk as investors who only hold common stock. Similarly, investors are not subject to the same degree of volatility as investors who only hold bonds.
When deciding whether a convertible security is right for an investor’s portfolio, there are a few factors to consider. First, investors should review the credit analysis of the issuer to determine the safety of the underlying security. Investors must also assess the risk and return potential of the convertible security and how it fits into their overall portfolio. Additionally, it is important to consider the cost of the security and the liquidity of the underlying stock.
Overall, convertible securities offer investors a unique opportunity to diversify their portfolios and participate in potential upside. Investors should consider the proportions of potential returns relative to potential risk when evaluating the merits of investing in a convertible security. By considering the terms related to conversion, the credit quality of the issuer, and the liquidity of the underlying stock, investors can gain a better understanding of the potential success of their investment.