Bonds

The municipal bond market is currently traversing a treacherous landscape, characterized by significant fluctuations that leave investors both anxious and cautious. Recent data suggests a worrisome trend as municipal bonds weaken amidst declining U.S. Treasury yields and increased stock market confidence. The municipal-UST ratios, seen hovering around the mid-70s, provide a reflective glimpse into the

The recent downgrade of the U.S. credit rating by Moody’s from AAA to Aa1 is not merely a number on a credit report; it serves as a significant signal that our nation’s financial foundations are shaky. The downgrade, occurring the Friday before a predominantly muted Monday in municipal finance, highlights the challenging realities of U.S.

In recent weeks, the municipal bond market has exhibited a surprising resilience, even as it navigates the aftershocks of President Trump’s tariff announcements. Observing the market’s behavior might pleasantly surprise skeptics, as critical insights revealed during the Bond Buyer’s Southeast Public Finance conference underscore the strength and adaptability of this financial sector. While it is

Amid the backdrop of rising healthcare needs, Harris County, Texas, has initiated a historical bond sale of $839.5 million, part of a staggering $3.2 billion expansion project aimed at bolstering its public healthcare system. While the intention to improve healthcare services for a population exceeding 5 million is commendable, one cannot help but scrutinize the

Amidst a backdrop of evolving financial dynamics, Chicago’s recent Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for underwriting services embodies significant shifts in the public finance landscape. Released on April 30, this initiative seeks to assemble a pool of firms to manage the city’s bond deals, marking a decisive step away from past practices and towards a more

Shreveport, Louisiana, a city home to approximately 178,000 residents, is treading a risky path as it prepares to issue nearly $29 million in general obligation bonds backed by questionable credit ratings. The financial landscape here is troubling, characterized by declining reserves and elevated long-term liabilities. The city has positioned itself for further borrowing, with plans

In a striking display of financial confidence, the North Carolina Local Government Commission has sanctioned an impressive $865 million in bond approvals this week, a significant maneuver that juxtaposes both the city of Charlotte and the Duke University Health System’s ambitions. While some may view this as just another financial event, the implications extend far

The municipal finance sector has recently witnessed a startling trend that raises significant questions about the corporate culture at Barclays Plc. After handing out bonuses mid-March, an astonishing ten employees from its municipal finance team exited in frustration over compensation, triggering a ripple effect across the industry. Could this mass exodus be a red flag

American Airlines, with a storied history in the aviation sector, has embarked on a significant $400 million project to bolster its maintenance facility in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Known as the world’s largest commercial aircraft maintenance base, this facility employs around 5,000 individuals and has been the backbone of the airline’s maintenance operations since 1946. Yet, the

The Tennessee state government has made a startling decision to escalate the issuance of state bonds to a staggering $1.01 billion for the upcoming fiscal year—up from a mere $88 million in the current fiscal year. This radical pivot raises eyebrows, as it marks an unprecedented escalation in the state’s fiscal approach, especially in a