Episode 284: Bonds, Benchmarks, and Beyond: An Insider’s Perspective on Fixed Income Investing

In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Christine Thorpe, Institutional Portfolio Manager at Fidelity Investments, to discuss the critical role of core fixed income in insurance portfolios. Despite being the largest allocation for most insurers, core fixed income often takes a backseat to higher-yielding asset classes. Christine shares insights on sector positioning, duration management, and Fidelity’s preference for rates over spreads in today’s evolving market.

 

With Fidelity managing approximately $2 trillion in fixed income strategies, Christine also highlights the firm’s team-based investment culture and how it helps drive consistent performance. She discusses how insurers can navigate shifting economic conditions, the importance of patience and diversification, and why thoughtful risk management is essential for long-term success. Whether you’re deep in the fixed income space or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with valuable insights.