Two alternatives to Italian government bonds carry distinct risks

REITs invest in property or property loans and pay out much of their profits.

The article cites a European property ETF with a 3.39% dividend yield, but rising interest rates can reduce property values and put pressure on some REITs.

US mortgage-backed securities are bundles of home loans, and the article cites an ETF with a 3.77% yield.

When rates rise, borrowers may repay more slowly, leaving investors exposed to longer-lasting losses as bond prices fall.