A joint bond, or joint-and-several bond, is a type of bond that is issued by two or more organizations. It is a form of guarantee that if one of the parties to the bond is unable to fulfill its obligation and defaults, then the other party will be liable to pay the full amount due.

A joint bond is typically issued in a situation where an entity needs backing to take out a loan but is unable or unwilling to obtain it from a single source. In such a situation, two or more parties may come together and issue a joint bond, whereby all parties agree to guarantee the payment of the loan if it is not paid back. This type of bond is commonly used by multi-national organizations and their subsidiaries, as well as by companies entering a joint venture.

Joint bonds typically offer a relatively safe investment opportunity and offer more modest returns than more volatile investment options. However, they may provide sufficient risk-averse returns for certain types of investors, such as pension funds or large insurers.

In recent years, there have been calls for the European Union to consider issuing joint bonds in order to strengthen the euro currency and promote economic growth across the region. There is some debate about the feasibility and desirability of such a move, but joint bonds could potentially reduce the risk of currency devaluation, encourage long-term investment and increase stability in the European financial market.

Overall, joint bonds can be an attractive option for entities with cash flow needs who are unable to obtain funding from one source. They provide a guaranteed payment plan and, depending on the issuing parties, may offer attractive returns to risk-averse investors. As the European Union seeks to promote economic growth and stability in the region, joint bonds may offer a viable way to strengthen the euro currency and protect against devaluation.