1.   And returns on bonds are paltry compared with riskier stocks.

2.   Bulgaria and Mexico, for example, are giving investors returns usually limited to riskier stocks.

3.   For example, managers with MBAs and those from high-SAT schools tend to buy riskier stocks.

4.   Gambling issues, another group of riskier stocks, were also strong.

5.   Government borrowing at high rates limits the amount of cash available for companies, and the guaranteed high yields discourage investment in riskier stocks.

6.   In turn, that higher rate would entice some investors to buy bonds and sell relatively riskier stocks.

7.   Led by Bulgaria, Mexico and the U.K., bonds are giving investors returns usually limited to riskier stocks.

8.   No doubt, there are some simple steps investors can take, like shifting money from riskier stocks to more secure bonds shortly before retirement.

9.   Rising rates make investing in riskier stocks less attractive.

10.   They do so by buying riskier stocks and by borrowing to finance the purchases.