In the ever-evolving investment landscape, navigating credit products can be challenging, particularly for investors pursuing a risk-averse approach. However, savvy investors can harness the power of leveraged credit as a compelling diversifying component for their broader portfolios. This article provides insights into understanding credit products and how they can fit seamlessly into an investment approach driven by calculated decision-making.

The Asymmetric Nature of Credit and Risk Considerations

Investing in credit, such as high-yield bonds, leveraged loans, and private credit, represents an asymmetrical trade-off. With the maximum gain dictated by the interest, or the coupon and payout at maturity, the risk profile of credit necessitates comprehension of the nature of these assets. The decision to invest in levered loans, for example, exempts investors from taking any interest rate risk and thus presents a favorable opportunity for the astute investor.

The Diversified Portfolio: A Place for Credit

With its role primarily via interest income, credit resides comfortably in a diversified portfolio. Purchasing high-yield bank loans or collateralized loan obligations (CLOs) can provide robust current interest. Notably, the high-yield bond market boasts close to $1.5 trillion, the CLO market, which consists mainly of levered loans, is nearly $1 trillion, and private credit, a newer asset class, slightly surpasses $1.5 trillion.

Bank Loans, High-Yield Bonds: A Comparative Glimpse

Bank loans typically carry a flexible interest rate and usually take a senior-secured position in the capital structure. These loans have direct access to collateral, which can range from receivables and inventory to hard assets. In contrast, high-yield bonds possess a fixed coupon and aren't callable for a few years, implying some interest rate risk. However, the lower duration vis-a-vis investment grade means reduced downside.

Choosing the Right Credit Team

Investment success in the credit market requires partnering with the right team. A firm understanding of credit, the factor-specific risks within credit, and an ability to leverage information effectively for decision-making should be the key traits investors seek in their credit management team.

Leveraged credit can complement and boost the performance of your portfolio. As researchers for Perpetual Asset Management (Americas), these insights emanate from a deep experience across myriad asset classes and a firm commitment to deliver investment excellence. We look forward to helping you navigate these complex markets and turn risk into opportunity. Learn more about the world-class investment strategies we offer at www.perpetual.com.