6.2.3

Under what situation can a zero-coupon bond be selling at par to its face value?

Unlike a coupon bond, a zero-coupon bond does not have a periodic cash flow with one lump-sum payment of the face value at its maturity. Consequently, a zero-coupon bond will be always selling at a price less than its face value and can never sell at par with its face value. If it does then the time value of money concepts will be violated, which never happens.

Under what situation can a zero-coupon bond be selling at a premium?

Unlike a coupon bond, a zero-coupon bond does not have a periodic cash flow with one lump-sum payment of the face value at its maturity. Consequently, a zero-coupon bond will be always selling at a price less than its face value. If it does then the time value of money concepts will be violated, which never happens.

How are the cash flows of a zero-coupon bond different from those of a coupon bond?

A zero-coupon bond has only two cash flows over its life. The first one is associated with the issues borrowing the money and the second when the issuer returns the principal. A coupon bond, on the other hand, has several cash flows over its life. The first cash flow of both these types of bonds, zero-coupon and coupon are similar as they denote the issuer borrowing the money. However, for a coupon bond the subsequent cash flows over its life correspond to the interest payment promised by the issuer with a final payment equal to the return of principal.