Which of the following instruments typically offers fixed interest payments?

Bonds typically offer fixed interest payments, making them a reliable source of income for investors. When an individual purchases a bond, they are essentially lending money to the issuer (which could be a government or corporation) in exchange for periodic interest payments, known as coupon payments, over the life of the bond. The principal amount is returned to the investor upon maturity. This characteristic of fixed payments is a key feature that distinguishes bonds from stocks, which do not guarantee dividends, and other financial instruments like exchange-traded funds or options, which often involve varying returns based on market conditions. Thus, bonds are a favored choice for those seeking predictable income through fixed interest payments.