How are bond prices affected by changes in the stock market?

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How are bond prices affected by changes in the stock market?

Bond prices are affected by changes in the stock market through the concept of interest rates. When the stock market experiences a decline or becomes volatile, investors tend to seek safer investment options, such as bonds. This increased demand for bonds leads to an increase in their prices.

Additionally, changes in the stock market can also impact interest rates. If the stock market is performing well, it may indicate a strong economy, leading to higher inflation expectations. In response, central banks may raise interest rates to control inflation. Higher interest rates make newly issued bonds more attractive to investors, causing the prices of existing bonds to decrease.

Conversely, if the stock market is performing poorly, it may signal a weak economy, leading to lower inflation expectations. Central banks may lower interest rates to stimulate economic growth. Lower interest rates make existing bonds more attractive, causing their prices to increase.

Overall, bond prices are inversely related to interest rates. Changes in the stock market can influence interest rates, which in turn affect bond prices.