Bonds are back: how to build reliable retirement income w/ PIMCO's Kanish Chugh

In this episode of the Australian Retirement Podcast, Owen Rask sits down with Kanish Chugh from PIMCO to explain why bonds are back — and how retirees can build income without asking one asset to do every job. After a decade in which low interest rates pushed many Australians towards shares and property, fixed income is offering a more meaningful source of income again. Owen and Kanish compare bonds with term deposits, franked dividends and hybrids, then unpack how government and corporate bonds can contribute income, liquidity, diversification and capital stability. They also revisit the classic 60/40 portfolio. What happens when the “forgotten 40%” starts working again? And why do professional investors often prefer active management in bonds even when they use index funds for shares? The conversation covers the risks that matter most in retirement: inflation and purchasing power, sequencing withdrawals during market falls, concentration in property or equities, liquidity, and the possibility that retirement lasts 20 to 30 years. Kanish also explains why each part of a portfolio should have one clear job, with a growth engine and a separate income engine. If you’re approaching retirement, already drawing an income, or reviewing whether your portfolio is genuinely retirement-ready, this episode offers a practical framework for balancing reliable income, long-term growth and risk. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest Disclaimer The information in this episode is provided by The Rask Group Pty Ltd and contains general financial product advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. You can read our Financial Services Guide at www.rask.com.au/fsg. If a financial product is mentioned, consider the relevant PDS and TMD, where applicable, before making any financial decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Returns are not guaranteed and capital may be at risk. The Rask Group Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1280930 of Rask Licensing Pty Ltd, AFSL 563 907. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices