The easy answer is that when major market indices hit 52 week lows, bonds look a lot more attractive. They aren't sexy, but they do have a place in your portfolio. But, it is important to remember that bonds and stocks tend to do well at different times in the economic cycle .
Bonds perform well when stocks lag.
This is why diversifying your portfolio helps keep your returns high during bad times. Retirees often rely on the predictable income generated by bonds. Bonds also make sense for young investors with regards to college savings. College funds aren't the type of investment you want to take a huge amount of risk with. Contrary to popular belief, you can make money beyond the interest income by the bond appreciating in value.