If a company's convertible bonds can convert into common shares at a price lower than the current share price, what is the status of these bonds?

Convertible bonds are considered "in the money" if the conversion price is lower than the current market price of the company's common shares. In this case, since the convertible bonds can be converted into shares at a price that is below the prevailing market price, it implies that bondholders can realize a profit by converting their bonds into equity. This favorable conversion feature gives the bonds intrinsic value because the option to convert is advantageous relative to the current trading price of the stock.

Being "out of the money" would imply that converting the bonds into shares would be less valuable than holding the bonds. If the status was uncertain or irrelevant, there would be no clear financial incentive or market implication, which isn't the case when the conversion price is indeed favorable. The ability to convert into shares at a beneficial rate sets these bonds apart as valuable financial instruments at this moment.