Glossary

# A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
  • Benchmark

    Reference value or yardstick against which the performance of an investment fund is measured and assessed. National or international equity indices are often used for this purpose.

  • Bond funds

    Investment funds that invest their assets primarily in bonds and similar debt securities.

  • Borrower rating

    Ability of a borrower to meet its financial obligations. As a rule, this is expressed in a specific rating awarded by specialist agencies (AAA, AA, etc.).
    Investment grade:

    • AAA
      Highest quality with the lowest risk of defaulting on interest and capital repayments; borrower has an excellent financial standing
    • AA
      Very high quality; borrower has sufficient financial strength to meet its financial obligations
    • A
      Above-average quality; borrower has adequate financial strength to meet its financial obligations, but is somewhat susceptible to unfavorable changes in the economic environment
    • BBB
      Average quality; borrower has enough financial strength to meet its financial obligations, but is more susceptible to unfavorable changes in the economic environment

    Non-investment grade (speculative investments):
    • BB
      Barely sufficient quality with speculative elements, borrower is beset with considerable uncertainty in respect of unfavorable economic conditions that could considerably weaken its financial strength.
    • B; CCC; CC; C
    • D: Default on payments