Which asset class is commonly associated with bonds?

Bonds are commonly categorized under the fixed income asset class. This classification is due to the nature of bonds, which are debt securities that provide returns in the form of regular interest payments and the return of principal at maturity. Investors usually receive a fixed rate of return over a predetermined period, hence the term "fixed income."

Fixed income investments typically offer more predictable income than equities and are generally considered to carry lower risk compared to stocks. This makes them a crucial part of a diversified investment portfolio, catering to investors looking for stability and income generation.

The other options, while also important asset classes, do not align with the characteristics of bonds. Equities refer to stocks and represent ownership in a company, commodities cover physical goods like oil, gold, or agricultural products, and money markets involve short-term debt instruments. None of these options provide the same nature of income and risk profile associated with bonds as part of the fixed income category.