Bonds & Rates

Basis point

One hundredth of one percentage point; 100 basis points equals 1%.

Plain-English context

Put the definition to work.

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE

A rate moving from 4.00% to 4.25% rises 25 basis points, or 0.25 percentage points.

IMPORTANT DISTINCTION

Distinguish percentage points from percentage change: 4% to 5% is 100 basis points, but a 25% relative rate increase.

Further reading and verification. Examples are hypothetical, not current quotes or recommendations. Product terms, tax treatment and market rules can change. Investor.gov — bonds and fixed income

MY MARKET BOOK / FREE CHAPTER

A clearer picture starts here.