Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) are U.S. government bonds designed to provide protection against inflation by adjusting their principal value based on the Consumer Price Index. While they can outperform inflation over time, TIPS are subject to higher volatility and interest rate risk, making them more suitable for investors nearing retirement or those seeking an inflation hedge rather than younger investors.
For your investment strategy, consider the current attractive real yields of approximately 2% on 10-year TIPS as a potentially valuable addition to your portfolio, especially if you are nearing retirement and seeking an inflation hedge for fixed-income holdings. However, be mindful of the interest rate risk associated with longer maturities and the tax implications, suggesting you hold TIPS in a tax-sheltered account like an IRA to optimize returns.