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Loan stock and bonds

Loan stock or bonds are borrowings issued to investors, normally bearing interest and repayable under stated terms. The issuer records a borrowing and normally recognises interest over the relevant period. Bond terms specify matters such as the interest rate, maturity date and any security. The holder's return and claim differ from those of an ordinary shareholder. The loan's repayment date and interest payment dates are essential when assessing cash commitments.

Worked example

A 100,000 bond with 5% annual coupon pays 5,000 annual interest.

Common mistake

Debt interest is an expense; bondholders are lenders, not shareholders. Terms and rates vary.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA FA Direct September 2026–June 2027
ACCA K1 Direct July 2027–August 2028
FIA FFA Direct September 2026–June 2027

Related terms

Also called: Loan stock bonds