Examine the note and bond yields presented below for Treasury and Corporate AAA, AA and A-rate bonds. Why do the yields differ across the securities and within securities, across time? Which premiums or market expectations most appropriately explain those differences? In particular, what accounts for the differences in rates across securities types for the same maturities? And speculate on what factor or factors can best explain why the yields rise as maturities lengthen (within particular types of bonds). Finally, do any securities look out of place and, if so, which and why?

Treasuries

2 year 0.33%

5 year 1.39%

10 year 2.64%

20 year 3.42%

Corporate, AAA

2 year 0.40%

5 year 1.77%

10 year 3.52%

20 year 4.93%

Corporate, AA

2 year 0.63%

5 year 1.91%

10 year 3.50%

20 year 4.43%

Corporate, A

2 year 0.84%

5 year 2.15%

10 year 3.67%

20 year 4.75%