India, July 17 -- Bonds can serve very different purposes at different stages of life.

In your 30s, they can help build a balanced portfolio and grow future income. In your 40s, they can support planned financial goals. In your 50s, they can help create a retirement income ladder. After retirement, they can contribute to the regular household cash flow.

The right bond strategy, therefore, should evolve with your income, responsibilities and financial priorities.

Ages 30-40: Build and Reinvest

For investors in their 30s, the focus should largely be on building the portfolio rather than spending the income it generates.

A bond allocation can provide balance alongside growth assets, especially during periods of equity market volatility....