gilts

Gilt, in finance, refers to a UK government bond issued by the government through the Debt Management Office on behalf of HM Treasury. Gilts are generally regarded as low‑risk, benchmark securities and are often described as gilt‑edged. Most have fixed coupons and a defined maturity, ranging from short to long term. They can be issued at par or with a premium or discount and are traded on the London Stock Exchange and other markets. Coupon payments are typically semi‑annual. Prices move with changes in interest rates, inflation expectations, and other macro factors; yields provide the total return if held to maturity. Conventional gilts have fixed coupons; index‑linked gilts have principal (and sometimes coupon) linked to inflation. The gilt market serves as a reference for UK borrowing costs and as a tool for monetary policy transmission. New gilts are issued at regular auctions by the Debt Management Office; the Bank of England can influence gilt yields through policy actions and market operations.

Gilt, in agriculture, is a young female pig that has not yet farrowed. Gilts are raised to breeding age and are typically mated before or around puberty, with first farrowing occurring after pregnancy. Following farrowing they are called sows. In farming, gilt management focuses on health, nutrition, and reproductive soundness to ensure productive breeding stock.