On Mad Money September 10, 2026, Jim Cramer argued that long-dated U.S. Treasury bonds have become an appealing option for investors nearing or in retirement. He emphasized the benefit of a 5.3%+ risk-free return, recommending that older investors consider 30-year Treasuries as a core portfolio holding. Cramer suggested they can still hold growth stocks like Nvidia and Apple, alongside Chevron and Procter & Gamble, but should focus more on stability and predictable income due to reduced tolerance for market volatility.
The 30-year Treasury yield closed at 5.35% on September 11, up from 5.24% a week earlier. This long duration is especially relevant for retirees as it allows them to lock in returns over an extended period. Other Treasury yields included 4.96% for the 10-year, 5.38% for the 20-year, 4.63% for the 2-year, and 4.07% for the 3-month bill.
The income advantage of Treasuries stands out when compared with expensive mega-cap stocks. Nvidia and Apple traded around 44 times earnings, with dividend yields below 0.5%. As long-term Treasury yields rise, high-multiple growth stocks may face increased pressure, while investors locking in Treasury yields gain attractive returns. Cramer positions 30-year Treasuries as a potential core holding for retirees, with mega-cap stocks kept as satellite investments for growth.