Financial planning wisdom generally suggests holding a mix of stocks, bonds, and cash. Of course, the percentage of each will vary from person to person, depending on such factors as age, employment, wealth status, and risk tolerance. Percentages may also change based on current market conditions.

But sometimes even so-called safer assets aren't entirely safe. That was true last year when many investors reduced their equity allocations as the stock market tanked, shifting some of their money to bonds. However, the bond market also fell. In fact, it was the first year since 1969 that both the stock and bond markets slipped by double digits. 

Now, as the stock market rises this year, how should investors think about buying bonds? Let's take a look.

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Source Fool.com