Fixed income can still play a vital role in client portfolios when combined with other asset classes, but to get the most out of bonds any exposure must be managed in an active manner

In historical terms, corporate bond yields are at record lows, but with returns from cash and sovereign debt even lower the asset class continues to attract investors

The size and diversity of global fixed income markets can be confusing for investors, but when looking for managers they should seek those who combine top-down and bottom-up approaches in their funds

Both top-down and bottom-up analysis are key when considering allocations to emerging market corporate bonds, while investors should tread carefully when it comes to high yield

Although yields may not be quite as high seen last year, 2013 looks to be another good year for emerging market debt with more developing countries being rerated higher

High quality government bonds may promise safety, but offer extremely low yields. Yet there are still opportunities to be found elsewhere in the fixed income universe

Willem Sels (left), UK Head of Investment Strategy at HSBC Private Bank, and Peter Branner, global CIO, SEB Asset Management, argue about the role high yield should play in client portfolios

Investors are pouring into investment grade corporate, high yield and emerging market bonds as they search for regular dividends. But they would be well advised to proceed with caution