If the Treasury Yield Curve Is Downward Sloping,how Should the Yield

question 74

Multiple Choice

If the Treasury yield curve is downward sloping,how should the yield to maturity on a 10-year Treasury coupon bond compare to that on a 1-year T-bill?

• A) The yield on a 10-year bond would be less than that on a 1-year bill.
• B) The yield on a 10-year bond would have to be higher than that on a 1-year bill because of the maturity risk premium.
• C) It is impossible to tell without knowing the coupon rates of the bonds.
• D) The yields on the two securities would be equal.
• E) It is impossible to tell without knowing the relative risks of the two securities.

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Definitions:

Inflation Rate

The annual rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services is rising, and, subsequently, purchasing power is falling. Central banks attempt to limit inflation to maintain a healthy economy.

Nominal Interest Rate

The headline rate of interest paid on a loan or received on an investment, not adjusted for inflation.

Consumer Price Index

An index that measures the change in price level of a market basket of consumer goods and services purchased by households.

Real Interest Rate

The interest rate that has been modified to account for inflation, showing the real cost of borrowing or the genuine investment return.