Do bondholders have a priority claim on assets?

Yes, bondholders typically have a priority claim on a company's assets in the event of liquidation or bankruptcy. They are considered creditors and are paid before equity shareholders when the company's assets are distributed. This priority is established in the bond's terms and the legal framework governing secured and unsecured debts. However, the degree of priority can vary depending on whether the bonds are secured (backed by specific assets) or unsecured.