Corporate Hybrids: strong demand, diminishing reward?
By Craig Rumbelow - 11 May 2026
Let’s start with a simple explanation of what a hybrid is: a perpetual bond that combines features of both debt and equity. Hybrids are subordinated to senior bonds but rank ahead of equity and possess equity-like features, such as loss-absorption and the ability to defer coupons. The corporate hybrid market has kicked off 2026 with a bang. Year‑to‑date gross issuance has already surpassed €31bn, well ahead of prior run‑rates (full‑year 2025 ended at €42bn).