bond pension funds.

Bond funds lend money to governments and companies in return for interest. They usually move less than shares and are often used to reduce risk closer to retirement, but they can still fall — particularly when interest rates rise, as in 2022.

funds

40

providers

9

typical risk

3–4/7

middle 5-yr return

−1.6% a year

Of the 33 bond pension funds with a five-year record, the highest average yearly return was +2.9% (New Ireland BNYM Absolute Return Bond, New Ireland) and the lowest −7.8% (Irish Life Annuity Fund, Irish Life). 7 funds are under five years old and listed after, by 3-year return.