The landscape of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investments is an evolving frontier, characterized not only by its financial implications but also by legal challenges that surround its practice. Recent developments in Oklahoma illustrate the tension between state regulations and corporate governance policies, encapsulated in a lawsuit against the state’s Treasurer Todd Russ, his office,
Politics
In a significant policy push, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander has firmly endorsed a strategy to exclude fossil fuel infrastructure from the city’s massive pension fund investments. This initiative aims to position three of the city’s pension funds as pioneers in a national movement toward sustainable investing. With the staggering valuation of combined assets
The Chicago City Council has initiated a significant move to refinance $1.5 billion of the city’s outstanding debt, a decision laden with implications for its financial health and budgetary flexibility. While the council’s 35-12 vote reflects a strategic response to managing escalating fiscal pressures, concerns persist about the underlying structure of this refinancing and its
The Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB) recently convened for its first quarterly board meeting of fiscal year 2025, held on October 23-24. This meeting marked a significant moment in the board’s efforts to refine its processes, with a particular focus on its rate card fee-setting mechanism. In light of previous challenges, the MSRB plans to
The state of North Carolina is embarking on its most ambitious transportation project yet, as it seeks to combat the increasing congestion along the crucial I-77 corridor in Charlotte. This endeavor, valued at a staggering $3.7 billion, involves widening the highway to a total of ten lanes by integrating two express lanes in each direction
The Financial Data Transparency Act (FDTA), enacted in December 2022, is designed to overhaul the existing landscape of municipal securities disclosures by mandating a shift towards machine-readable data formats. This ambitious initiative is intended to enhance the transparency and accessibility of financial information across states and municipalities. However, the rollout of the FDTA has been
In a recent turn of events, Houston’s financial landscapes took center stage when Controller Chris Hollins hosted an investor conference that unfolded without the endorsement of key city officials. This absence was notably marked by Mayor John Whitmire’s allegations regarding “pay-to-play” dynamics stemming from corporate sponsorships associated with the conference. The tension between these two
Houston, Texas, the nation’s fourth-largest city, is confronted with a multitude of fiscal challenges exacerbated by recent natural disasters. As the city gears up for its fiscal 2025 budget, a combination of state aid and pressing economic realities is painting a bleak picture of Houston’s financial landscape. The city’s recovery from the catastrophic damages inflicted
As the ramifications of funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) recede, municipalities across the United States are confronting an uncertain fiscal landscape. With the expiration of this federal support, cities are not only dealing with the fading impact of these funds but are also grappling with strategic budgeting decisions that will determine their
In recent developments surrounding Houston’s municipal governance, Mayor John Whitmire has publicly criticized City Controller Chris Hollins for soliciting sponsorships from municipal bond firms ahead of an investor conference. This controversial collaboration has raised eyebrows and echoes sentiments of ethical concerns, particularly given the significant financial contributions required for sponsorship. Prices for sponsorships reportedly range