What is a potential risk associated with investing in high-yield securities?

Investing in high-yield securities, often referred to as junk bonds, carries a significant potential risk known as increased credit risk. High-yield securities are issued by companies or entities that may have lower credit ratings. This means that these issuers are considered more likely to default on their debt obligations or be unable to make interest payments, which can result in investors losing a substantial portion of their investment.

The allure of high-yield securities lies in their promise of higher returns to compensate for this increased risk. However, potential investors must weigh the attractiveness of these higher returns against the real possibility of credit default, which significantly elevates the inherent risk involved in such investments. Understanding this risk is crucial for making informed decisions in a diverse investment portfolio.