Rising Star Bonds Early Upgrade Gains Captured 2026

Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

Rising Star Bonds Early Upgrade Gains Captured 2026

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Written by Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

Introduction

The bond market is experiencing significant transformations, with a notable focus on early upgrades among rising star bonds. Rising star bonds are typically those that have recently been upgraded from a non-investment grade to an investment-grade rating, reflecting improving credit quality and increased investor confidence. According to the latest data, the global bond market reached a staggering $128 trillion in 2021, with emerging markets accounting for about $21 trillion. As the demand for higher-yielding, lower-risk investments continues to surge, understanding the dynamics of rising star bonds becomes increasingly relevant for investors and financial professionals alike.

Top 20 Rising Star Bonds Early Upgrade Gains Captured 2026

1. Colombia

Colombia’s government bonds have shown resilience, with a recent credit rating upgrade by S&P to investment grade. This upgrade reflects improved fiscal discipline, leading to a 5% growth in bond issuance to $23 billion in 2022.

2. Peru

Peru has seen its bonds upgraded to investment grade, resulting in a 15% increase in foreign investment to $8 billion in 2022. The country’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and infrastructure development has bolstered investor confidence.

3. Brazil

Brazil’s bond market is on the rise, with recent upgrades in credit ratings. The nation reported a 12% increase in bond exports, with a total value of $20 billion, driven by strong commodity performance.

4. Chile

Chile’s early upgrades in its sovereign bonds have led to a 10% increase in yield attractiveness. With an export value of $15 billion in bonds, the country remains a favorite for international investors.

5. Mexico

Mexico’s bonds have surged following upgrades from Fitch and Moody’s. In 2022, bond issuance rose by 8%, reaching $30 billion, bolstered by the country’s strategic economic reforms.

6. Philippines

The Philippines has recently received an upgrade to its bond ratings, resulting in a 20% increase in bond investments, totaling $12 billion. The robust growth prospects of the economy have attracted significant foreign capital.

7. South Africa

Following a recent upgrade, South Africa’s bonds have seen a 7% increase in demand, translating to a $25 billion bond issuance. Efforts to stabilize the economy are paying dividends with enhanced investor sentiment.

8. Morocco

Morocco’s emerging bond market recently captured attention with a credit upgrade, leading to a remarkable 30% boost in bond issuance, reaching $5 billion. The country’s economic diversification is appealing to investors.

9. Thailand

Thailand’s bond market has benefited from an upgrade, with a 9% increase in bond production valued at $18 billion. The country’s stable political climate supports its rising star status in the bond market.

10. Malaysia

Malaysia’s bonds have recently been upgraded, leading to a 10% increase in investor interest. In 2022, the bond market reached $45 billion, fueled by strong government support for infrastructure projects.

11. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic’s bond ratings have improved, resulting in a 15% increase in GDP-linked bond issuance, reaching $10 billion. Its strong economic fundamentals make it an attractive option for investors.

12. Hungary

Hungary has recently achieved a credit upgrade, leading to a 12% increase in bond trading volume. The market generated $7 billion in new bond issues, supported by robust economic growth.

13. India

India’s bond market is emerging as a key player, with upgrades leading to a 25% increase in foreign investment. The total bond market value is projected to reach $1 trillion by 2026, driven by economic reforms.

14. Vietnam

Vietnam has seen a rapid rise in bond market activity, with a recent upgrade resulting in a 20% increase in issuance to $15 billion. The country’s integration into global markets enhances its appeal to international investors.

15. Indonesia

Indonesia’s bonds have benefited from an upgrade, leading to a 10% increase in bond issuance to $30 billion. Strong economic growth and a robust domestic market are key to this performance.

16. Israel

Israel’s bond market has gained traction, with a recent upgrade leading to a 15% increase in bond investments. The country reported $20 billion in new issues, driven by technological innovation and growth.

17. Kenya

Kenya has seen its bonds upgraded, resulting in a 12% increase in bond issuance to $8 billion. The government’s focus on infrastructure and economic growth has attracted international investor interest.

18. Nigeria

Nigeria’s bond market has experienced an upgrade, leading to a 10% increase in bond issuance to $12 billion. Efforts to stabilize the economy amidst challenges are showing positive effects on investor sentiment.

19. Romania

Romania has benefited from credit upgrades, leading to a 15% increase in bond issuance, totaling $6 billion. The country’s economic reforms and EU integration are key drivers of this growth.

20. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s bond market has shown significant growth, with a recent upgrade resulting in a 20% increase in bond issuance to $35 billion. The government’s Vision 2030 initiative attracts considerable foreign investment.

Insights

The landscape of rising star bonds is evolving, with various countries experiencing upgrades that enhance their credit profiles and attract greater foreign investment. The trend indicates a growing confidence in economies previously deemed risky, with an estimated $300 billion in upgrades anticipated by 2026. As investors seek higher yields in a low-interest-rate environment, rising star bonds are projected to become a central focus, with emerging markets expected to account for more than 30% of global bond issuance by 2026. The implications for both investors and issuers are significant, as this shift could redefine risk and return paradigms in global finance.

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Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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