What does Yield to Maturity (YTM) indicate for a bond purchased in the current market?

Yield to Maturity (YTM) is a crucial metric for investors in the bond market, as it represents the total return an investor can expect to earn if the bond is held until it matures, considering the current market price of the bond. This means that YTM takes into account not only the bond's coupon payments but also the difference between the purchase price and the face value of the bond at maturity, all discounted at the bond's current yield.

Considering that YTM is calculated based on the bond's current market price, prevailing interest rates, and its future cash flows, it reflects the yield that an investor would earn in the context of current market conditions. This makes it a vital measure for comparing the attractiveness of various bonds and helps in making informed investment decisions.

Thus, the statement that YTM indicates the yield based on current market conditions is accurate and captures its significance effectively.