Emory Zink

Uncertainty--around actions by the Federal Reserve, trade tensions, and slower global economic growth--contributed to a tense second quarter in fixed-income markets.

Obstacles throughout 2018--particularly rising interest rates and anxious credit markets--provided a challenge to bond investors broadly, but short-term bond funds held their own.

Bond markets grappled with monetary policy and political unknowns in 2018.

Bronze-rated American Funds Bond Fund of America is a good choice for those seeking calm during bouts of market volatility.

Uncertainties abounded over the period, though strong technical backdrops provided some stability.