Which coupon structures exist for corporate bonds, and when do you use each?

Common structures include fixed-rate coupons, floating-rate notes, zero-coupon bonds, step-up coupons, inflation-linked bonds, and hybrid coupons. Fixed coupons suit stable rate environments and investor demand for certainty. Floating coupons suit issuers or investors wanting rate reset. Step-ups can reflect rating triggers or call economics. Hybrids use equity-like features.