Fixed Income Markets

Definition ∞ Fixed income markets are financial markets where debt securities are traded, providing investors with a return based on a predetermined schedule of interest or dividend payments. These securities include bonds, government treasuries, and corporate debt. They are characterized by their regular income streams and generally lower volatility compared to equity markets. These markets are a fundamental component of global finance.
Context ∞ The integration of digital assets into fixed income markets is a significant area of development, with discussions around tokenized bonds and other debt instruments. News often reports on pilot projects aiming to streamline issuance, trading, and settlement of these securities using blockchain technology. Regulatory frameworks for digital fixed income products remain a critical topic, influencing their broader adoption and market structure.