Bonds' role in a portfolio is to provide income and diversification. But in 2022, they had the worst returns in decades and also failed to provide the ballast they typically would when equity markets are down. Now the Fed's rapid rate hikes have changed the equation, and investors are giving bonds another look. Collin Martin, director of fixed income strategy at the Schwab Center for Financial Research, joins Mike Townsend to consider what the Fed may do next after it chose to pause rate hikes and what the implications could be for investors, borrowers, corporations, and the economy in general. They also discuss how to choose bonds that may be right for you—and which ones to avoid.Mike offers insight on the hurdles and deadlines Congress faces in order to pass the 12 appropriation bills to keep the government open and operating. He shares an update on the nominees to fill open positions at the Fed and looks at the bipartisan efforts in Congress to toughen banking regulations, including legislation to increase penalties on executives at failed banks.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed.Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.Fixed income securities are subject to increased loss of principal during periods of rising interest rates. Fixed income investments are subject to various other risks including changes in credit quality, market valuations, liquidity, prepayments, early redemption, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors. Lower rated securities are subject to greater credit risk, default risk, and liquidity risk.An investment in a money market fund is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Although a money market fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes please see www.schwab.com/indexdefinitions. Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Tax-exempt bonds are not necessarily a suitable investment for all persons. Information related to a security's tax-exempt status (federal and in-state) is obtained from third-parties and Schwab does not guarantee its accuracy. Tax-exempt income may be subject to the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT). Capital appreciation from bond funds and discounted bonds may be subject to state or local taxes. Capital gains are not exempt from federal income tax.(0623-3SXW)