Summary
- The 10-year real yield has dipped deeply negative, to nearly 1% below inflation.
- But that reflects the bond market’s very low nominal yields. This TIPS’ inflation breakeven rate of about 1.67% is still appealing.
- For the first $10,000 you invest in inflation protection in 2020, the Series I Savings Bond is the better investment. Then consider TIPS.
The U.S. Treasury is reopening CUSIP 912828ZZ6 in an auction Thursday, offering $12 billion in this 9-year, 10 month Treasury Inflation-Protected Security. Even though terms of this TIPS are hardly dazzling, I’m expecting investor interest to be strong.

Looks like another good opportunity to build on the bond ladder portion of a portfolio for the middle-aged and trust…