10-year Treasury Note

10-year Treasury Note

A debt owed by the United States government for a period of ten years. Each note has a stated interest rate, which is paid semi-annually. Because the United States is seen as a very low-risk borrower, many investors see 10-year Treasury Note interest rates as indicative of the wider bond market. Normally, the interest rate decreases with greater demand for the Notes and rises with lower demand. For example, in December 2008, 10-year interest rates were the lowest in history due to deteriorating economic conditions and the consequent desire of investors for low-risk investments. See also: yield, bond, treasury note, treasury bond, treasury bill.