BTZ: Rates Are Attractive, Spreads Are Not

BlackRock Credit Allocation Income Trust is maintained at Hold/Neutral as spread risk and high leverage create asymmetric risk/reward. BTZ has shifted to a junk-heavy portfolio (53% junk, 39% U.S. high yield), amplifying spread and default risk exposure. The 10% distribution rate relies heavily on return of capital, with the actual portfolio yield to maturity at 7.5% and 30% leverage.