Answer: Decreases.

The Macaulay duration of a bond trading at a premium decreases as the coupon payment date approaches. This occurs because the duration declines smoothly over time during the coupon period and then jumps upward after the coupon is paid. Generally, longer times-to-maturity correspond to higher Macaulay duration statistics for bonds trading at par or a premium. Conversely, shorter times-to-maturity result in lower duration during the coupon period. Option B is incorrect because the duration does not remain constant unless the bond is a perpetuity. Option C is incorrect because the scenario described applies only to discount bonds, not premium bonds.

Author: LeetQuiz Editorial Team