High yield spread email alerts

What is High Yield Spread?

The high-yield option-adjusted spread (OAS) measures how much extra yield U.S. junk bonds pay over Treasuries after adjusting for embedded options. Wider spreads mean credit stress; tighter spreads mean risk appetite is firm.

Why does HY Spread matter for markets?

Credit often leads equities at turning points. When junk spreads blow out, leverage and recession fears are rising; when they grind tight, markets are complacent about default risk.

What is a good HY Spread level for alerts?

These are common levels traders set email alerts around — click the chart to place a line at any of them.

4% or tighter

Complacent credit. Risk appetite is strong — little compensation for default risk.

5%

First stress mark. Spreads are no longer “easy money”; hedging demand is rising.

6%

Elevated stress. Equity drawdowns and recession chatter often show up here.

8%+

Crisis-style widening. Historically associated with forced selling and deep risk-off.

How do Market Alerts email alerts for HY Spread work?

Common watch levels are 5%, 6%, and 8%. Drag a line onto one of those stress marks and we’ll email you if credit risk blows out.

Click the chart to set a level, enter your email (or stay signed in), and we notify you when HY Spread crosses that line.

How should I read the HY Spread bands?

Tight (<5%)

Credit markets are calm. Investors accept thin compensation for junk risk.

5–6%

Stress is building. Worth watching alongside VIX and equities.

6–8%

Elevated credit fear — funding and default worries are in play.

≥8%

Crisis widening. Historically paired with sharp risk-asset selloffs.

Frequently asked questions about HY Spread alerts