Ah, you're on the right track! The decision to invest in a 2nd lien bond over a 1st lien bond, even when it's trading at a lower price, could indeed be due to the potential for a higher yield. This is a classic risk-reward scenario.

The 2nd lien bond might offer a higher yield to compensate for the additional risk. Remember, in a restructuring scenario, the 1st lien bond holders get paid out first. So, the 2nd lien bond holders are taking on more risk, and they'd typically want a higher return for taking on that risk.

However, it's not just about the yield. Investors might also believe that the company's situation will improve, which could lead to a price appreciation of the 2nd lien bond.

But remember, every investment decision depends on the investor's risk tolerance, investment horizon, and return expectations. So, it's not a one-size-fits-all answer.

Keep in mind, this is a simplified explanation. In reality, the decision to invest in 1st lien vs 2nd lien bonds involves a detailed analysis of the company's financials, industry trends, and more. So, keep digging into the WSO content to learn more!

Sources: Help Me Understand Fixed Income Investing, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/how-to-prepare-for-restructuring-technical-questions?customgpt=1, Q&A: Credit hedge fund analyst at MF, former BB trader, Credit / Bond Tranches Questions

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Could be two scenarios 

1. More propensity to take more risk, thus willing to make the investment 

2. You actually think risk adjusted its a better expected outcome 

 

All about relative value. Are you compensated more for buying the 2L at 50 on a risk adjusted basis? or does the 2L have to be at 40 for your risk to make sense? 

prob can take the answer in a bunch of different ways. Ie 1L at 20 points of discount still being first lien priority blah blah

 

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