ICE BofA Single-B US High Yield Index Semi-Annual Yield to Worst
BAMLH0A2HYBSYTW • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
7.16
Year-over-Year Change
1.27%
Date Range
10/27/2021 - 8/8/2025
Summary
The ICE BofA Single-B US High Yield Index Semi-Annual Yield to Worst tracks the yield performance of lower-rated corporate bonds in the United States. This metric provides critical insights into the risk and return characteristics of high-yield debt markets, serving as a key indicator of corporate financial health and investor sentiment.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
This index represents the semi-annual yield of single B-rated corporate bonds, which are considered speculative or 'junk' bonds with higher default risk. Economists and investors use this metric to assess credit market conditions, corporate financial stress, and potential investment opportunities in riskier debt segments.
Methodology
The yield is calculated by ICE BofA Analytics using a comprehensive methodology that considers the lowest potential yield across various bond scenarios, accounting for potential early redemption or call features.
Historical Context
Financial analysts and policymakers use this index to gauge corporate credit market conditions, assess economic risk, and inform investment and monetary policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Single B-rated bonds represent a high-risk segment of corporate debt markets
- The index provides a semi-annual snapshot of potential yields for speculative-grade bonds
- Higher yields typically indicate increased perceived risk in corporate debt markets
FAQs
Q: What does 'Yield to Worst' mean?
A: Yield to Worst represents the lowest potential yield a bond can generate without defaulting, accounting for potential early redemption scenarios.
Q: Why are single B-rated bonds considered high-risk?
A: Single B-rated bonds have a higher probability of default compared to investment-grade bonds, reflecting the issuing company's weaker financial condition.
Q: How often is this index updated?
A: The ICE BofA Single-B US High Yield Index is updated semi-annually, providing a periodic assessment of high-yield bond market conditions.
Q: How do investors use this index?
A: Investors use this index to assess credit market risk, compare potential returns, and make informed decisions about high-yield bond investments.
Q: What factors influence the index's yield?
A: Corporate financial performance, overall economic conditions, interest rates, and market sentiment can significantly impact the index's yield.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, ICE BofA Single-B US High Yield Index Semi-Annual Yield to Worst [BAMLH0A2HYBSYTW], retrieved from FRED.
Last Checked: 8/1/2025