Definition
When a bond is bought between coupon dates, the buyer pays the seller the "clean price" plus accrued interest (the "dirty price"). This compensates the seller for holding the bond during the partial coupon period. The buyer then receives the full next coupon payment, effectively recovering the accrued interest paid.
functions Formula
Accrued Interest = (Coupon / Days in Period) × Days Since Last Coupon
lightbulb Example
A bond pays $50 semi-annually (every 182 days). You buy 91 days after the last coupon. Accrued interest = ($50/182) × 91 = $25. You pay clean price plus $25.
verified_user Key Points
- Clean price + accrued interest = dirty price (settlement price)
- Buyer pays accrued; receives full next coupon
- Day count conventions affect calculation
- Ex-coupon date is when accrued interest resets