Markets

The first quarter of 2021 concludes with $102.1 billion, slightly higher than the $95.3 billion that the market saw in the COVID-ravaged first quarter of 2020.

Fitch said the downgrade reflects “persistent pressures on the travel and tourism sector" because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Larger fund flows, lower supply and optimism surrounding issuer credit post-stimulus allowed for a March price reversal that avoids posting two consecutive months with losses. The consumer confidence index jumped to its highest reading in a year in March.

Officials cited borrowing flexibility before a joint meeting of the transit authority's oversight board and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.

Municipals continue to outperform Treasuries amid a light holiday-shortened week led by a California tobacco deal.

A trio of municipal bond analysts say now is the time for investors to take advantage of the strength and resilience of the asset class.

With some light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences fund growth with $139 million of revenue bonds.

Moody’s followed S&P in lifting Illinois’ outlook to stable, where it stood before the COVID-19 pandemic, but a lot more needs to happen for an upgrade.

Both personal income and expenditures dropped in February, while personal consumption expenditures also came in weaker than expected, meaning inflation remains in check for now.

Moody's is the second rating agency this month to bring its outlook on Illinois to stable, though all ratings remain at the lowest investment grade.