Markets

BlackRock says relative valuations and historical seasonal trends suggest favorable conditions for municipals.

Fitch Ratings says the application of its new rating criteria is not expected to result in widespread downgrades.

Chicago Public Schools has GO, revenue, and refunding bond deals in the works.

Lakeport officials plan to equip city facilities with solar panels.

Municipal bond buyers were seeing the first of the week’s deals come to market as two big competitive issues sold.

The combined $10 million payment by Aetna, The Hartford and Travelers is a positive for Connecticut's struggling capital, according to Moody's Investors Service.

The Small Business Optimism Index posted its sixth highest reading in survey history for the month of June.

The summer lull, trade policy, the Fed, and the lack of a federal infrastructure plan all weigh against a recovery in muni volume this year.

While munis turned in a mostly solid performance on Monday, a Charles Schwab & Co. report said they are less likely to outperform Treasurys in the second half.

DTE Electric Co. is seeking a $537 million reduction in its taxable value, possibly threatening the county's credit rating.