With uncertain and volatile stock markets making many investors cautious many are turning to bonds which, whilst being by no means risk free, are a lot less volatile than shares. Many professional investors routinely use bonds - often as a core constituent of a diversified portfolio - so it is only a matter of time before private investors do the same. First Steps in Bonds introduces readers to the key issues revolving around the bond markets. It covers in detail each of the main segments of the market - government bonds, corporate bonds, Eurobonds and other types. Supported by illustrative stories, trading scenarios and worked examples, it will lead investors through the concepts whilst always keeping one eye on the reality of the markets. By cutting through all the jargon used by the professionals, the author provides you with the practical guidance and sensible strategies to enable you to trade in bonds with confidence. First Steps in Bonds cuts through the seeming complexity of bond markets and enables the reader to become familiar with bonds quickly and easily. It teaches you:

• what bonds are, how they differ from shares and why you should invest in them
• how to analyze and value bonds, and the tools needed to make decisions about them
• the external events and market technicalities that drive bond markets
• techniques for dealing in bonds, selecting a broker, and finding information on bonds
• the characteristics and advantages of collective investment in bonds
• how to deal in government bonds through online dealing services.

Peter Temple worked as a city analyst for 18 years, and has been a financial journalist for thirteen. He has also been an active and successful private trader for the past 15 years. First Steps in Bonds Take your first steps with confidence.