Glossary - Y

Yield
The effective return on an investment, as paid in dividends or interest

Yield maintenance premium
A penalty designed to make investors whole in the event of early redemption of principal.  Usually paid by the borrower.

Yield spread
A form of compensation some brokers receive from a lender for originating and processing a loan.  The yield spread is based on the interest rate of the loan and can usually vary anywhere from zero to 6%.