What does the yield curve primarily depict?

The yield curve primarily depicts the relationship between the interest rates of bonds with similar credit quality but differing maturities. It is a graphical representation that shows how the yield (return on investment) varies with the length of time until the bonds mature. Typically, you will see a standard upward-sloping yield curve, indicating that longer-term bonds have higher yields compared to short-term bonds. This reflects the time value of money and the risks associated with longer investment horizons, including uncertainty about interest rates and inflation over time.

By analyzing the yield curve, investors can gain insights into market expectations regarding interest rate changes, economic growth, and potential inflation. When the yield curve is flat or inverted, it might signal a potential economic slowdown or recession, providing valuable information for investment strategies.

While the other options reference important financial concepts, they do not accurately capture the function of the yield curve as a depiction of bond yields across different maturities.