I use and like RPIBX a lot--be aware, though, that it jumps around a lot: price changes of .5-1.0 % aren't uncommon.  Like the above writer, I use RPSIX as well and keep it about three times as large as Int'l Bond.  It's a lot more stable.  To me, it doesn't make much difference which IRA vehicle you keep them in--if anything, I prefer stock funds in Roths, since (in theory) the larger long-term gains over bonds will be tax-free. If you're light on bonds, one tactic I've had luck with is to skim the "winnings" when a fund has a good period and goes over your allocated level.  That both builds your bond share and keeps you from getting too greedy with the winners.  MarkB. 

I like using RPIBX as a supporting position along with more core type holdings like PRCIX and PRIPX. PRCIX can hold TIPS, but rarely does so in any meaningful percentage.

I see RPSIX as a stand alone bond fund. I will most likely use it as a core fund in retirement. (After I've reduced my equity exposure) The only thing that bothers me about it is the 15+or-allocation to PRFDX. At this point of the game I like my bonds to have a low correlation to stocks. Case in point, today was a pretty rough day for stocks. PRIPX was up .26% and PRCIX up .22% while RPSIX was down .25%. My core funds offered me what I want in bonds -protection in a down market and a zig when stocks zag.

RPIBX is a terrific fund. It has the potential to serve as a nice diversifier and a nice complement to core bond funds. Just keep a couple of things in mind:

1. If you don't already own it you may be disappointed buying in now as it has burned blue flame hot recently and can't keep up that pace forever. (It has already started to cool off)

2. What currencies/interest rates will do going forward is one of the most confounding things to even attempt to predict-at least as difficult as figuring out what stocks will do, and perhaps even more so.

migues

 

Thanks to all for your comments.  I appreciate the insight.

I'm very comforable with my "core" portfolio and intended to use this as an "explore" option.  This would complement my existing 401k holdings in PTTRX (Pimco Total Return) and FBIDX (Fido US Bond). 

I would definitely start small and DCA in given the recent performance.  Just need to evaluate whether this type of fund would be better in a traditional or Roth IRA or if it matters.