Listen to a Business English Dialogue About Junior security
Katherine: Hi Steven, have you heard about junior securities? I’m not quite sure what they are.
Steven: Hey Katherine, junior securities are financial instruments that have a lower priority than other securities in terms of repayment if a company faces bankruptcy or liquidation.
Katherine: Oh, I see. So, they’re like the last in line to get paid? How do they differ from senior securities?
Steven: Exactly. Senior securities have higher priority for repayment and are typically paid off before junior securities. They’re considered less risky because they have a higher chance of getting paid back in full.
Katherine: That makes sense. Are junior securities more risky investments then?
Steven: Yes, they tend to be riskier because there’s a higher chance that investors won’t get paid back if the company runs into financial trouble. That’s why they often offer higher potential returns to compensate for the increased risk.
Katherine: I understand. What are some examples of junior securities?
Steven: Common examples include subordinated bonds, preferred stocks with lower priority, and certain types of convertible securities. They’re all considered junior because they’re lower in priority for repayment compared to senior securities.
Katherine: Got it. How can investors assess the risk associated with junior securities?
Steven: Investors should carefully evaluate the financial health and creditworthiness of the company issuing the securities, as well as factors like the terms of the securities and their position in the capital structure. It’s essential to conduct thorough research and understand the risks before investing.
Katherine: Thanks for the explanation, Steven. It’s important to understand the differences between senior and junior securities when making investment decisions.
Steven: You’re welcome, Katherine. Understanding the hierarchy of securities in a company’s capital structure can help investors make more informed decisions and manage their risk effectively. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!