As we look to be nearing the top of the interest rate cycle, the consensus has been 'higher for longer', however should we be asking the question 'higher forever?'

In this week's episode, Tom Hanson, Co-Manager of the newly A-rated Aegon High Yield Bond fund, shared his thoughts on where next for interest rates, what this new market environment means for default risk and why the high yield market is well placed to take advantage. Speaking with Jock Glover, Tom goes on to argue the case for high yield, emphasising its role as a hybrid asset class and its defensive characteristics.

Listen to the Behind the Screens on your favourite platform here, or listen below.

Don't have time to listen to the full episode, jump to your favourite part:

• 1:00 - Have we seen the peak of the interest rate cycle?

• 3:10- What is the investment case for high yield?

• 6:25 - Are we seeing the risk of default increasing?

• 11:00 - How do you work together as a team?

• 13:00 - What keeps you up at night?

• 14:25 – An interesting statistic for the week.

This was recorded on Tuesday 28th November 2023. This podcast is only aimed at professional advisers and regulated firms and should not be passed on to or relied upon by any other persons. It is not intended for retail investors, who should obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the podcast, remembering past performance is not an indication of future performance. It is published by, and remains the copyright of, Square Mile Investment Consulting and Research Ltd. Square Mile makes no warranties or representations regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein. This podcast represents the views and forecasts of SM at the date of issue and may be subject to change without reference or notification to you. Nothing in this podcast shall be deemed to constitute a regulated activity or an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity and it is not a recommendation to buy or sell any funds or investments that are mentioned during this podcast. https://www.squaremileresearch.com/Fund-Details/mctl/FundDetails/FundId/192