Junk bonds usually have low ratings because ____________.

Junk bonds, also known as high-yield bonds, typically receive low ratings from credit rating agencies due to their associated risk levels. These investments are issued by companies that may have credit quality issues, poor financial health, or are considered less stable compared to those issuing investment-grade bonds. The higher risk of default—including the possibility that the issuer may fail to make timely interest payments or repay the principal—leads to these bonds being rated lower.

Investors are compensated for taking on this additional risk through higher interest rates, which can result in potentially significant returns. Thus, the nature of junk bonds as high-risk investments makes them attractive to certain investors willing to accept the gamble of greater returns in exchange for the increased risk of loss. The classification of junk bonds reflects their likelihood of default, which directly explains why they possess low ratings.