Definition. 1  A blood clot is a thickened mass in the blood formed by tiny substances called platelets. Clots form to stop bleeding, such as at the site of cut. 2  As soon as a blood vessel wall is damagedâby a cut or similar traumaâa series of reactions normally takes place to activate platelets to stop the bleeding.
Series EE bonds mature after 30 years, meaning they can earn interest for that period of time. EE bonds are sold for half of face value and the U.S. Treasury Department guarantees they will reach face value after 20 years. Bonds must be owned for at least one year before redemption.
Laddering corporate bonds to maximize returns. Typically, you build a ladder using corporate bonds that mature every couple of years, stretching out, perhaps, to 10 years. When the 2-year bond matures, the 10-year bond is then due in 8 years, so you buy a new 10-year bond with the proceeds from the matured 2-year bond.