3.1 Treasury Securities
US Treasuries carry virtually zero default risk because they are backed by the full faith, credit, and taxing power of the US federal government. Understanding quotation formats and tax treatment is critical.
Key FINRA Exam Takeaways
- T-Bills: Short-term (4, 8, 13, 17, 26, 52 weeks), issued at a discount, mature at par, quoted on annualized discount yield.
- T-Notes (2-10 yrs) and T-Bonds (20-30 yrs): Pay semiannual interest, quoted in 32nds of a point (e.g., 95.16 = 95 16/32 = 95.5% = $955).
- TIPS (Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities): Principal is adjusted semiannually based on CPI; fixed coupon is applied to adjusted principal.
- STRIPS: Zero-coupon securities created by separating coupons and principal from T-Notes/Bonds.
- Taxation: Federal income tax applies; 100% EXEMPT from state and local income taxes.
Quote Conventions: 32nds of a Point
T-Notes and T-Bonds quote in 32nds. A quote of 98.24 means 98 + 24/32% of $1,000 = 98.75% = $987.50. A plus sign (+) indicates 1/64th (e.g., 98.24+ = 98 + 49/64).
TIPS Inflation Adjustment Mechanics
If CPI rises by 3% over a year, the principal of a $1,000 TIPS increases to $1,030. The semiannual coupon is calculated on this adjusted principal. At maturity, the investor receives the higher of the inflation-adjusted principal or par ($1,000).
Knowledge Checkpoint • Section 3.1
A US Treasury bond is quoted in the secondary market at 97.16. What is the dollar purchase price of this bond?