What is a feature of high yield bonds?

High yield bonds, also known as junk bonds, are characterized by a higher risk of default compared to investment-grade bonds. This increased risk arises from the lower credit ratings assigned to these bonds due to the issuing entity's financial instability or other factors that could jeopardize their ability to repay. However, this inherent risk is coupled with the potential for higher returns. Investors are often attracted to high yield bonds because they offer interest rates significantly above those of more stable, lower-risk investments. This means that if the issuer does not default, the yields can be quite lucrative.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately depict the nature of high yield bonds. Low risk with high returns is more aligned with investment-grade bonds. Guaranteed interest payments do not apply to high yield bonds, as there is no assurance that issuers will meet their debt obligations in full, especially in the case of default. Likewise, fixed interest rates may apply to some bonds, including certain high yield bonds, but this characteristic alone does not define them, as many high yield bonds can have variable interest rates or other structures. Thus, the defining feature of high yield bonds being high risk with the potential for higher returns is what makes option B the correct choice.