More than a few folks are worried that interest rates are on the rise. Leaving aside the fact that rising rates generally are a signal of an improving economy, the concern may be warranted given the fact that bond prices generally fall as interest rates rise. Here as in so many other facets of investments, though, the perspective of time matters. As yields increase, we look to the potential for income from bonds to offset capital losses (as bond prices fall), a feature facilitated by the now higher yields on those bonds. Those concerned about the medium-term effects of higher rates on the bond portions of their portfolios may find some solace in this month’s review of past rising-rate periods.