Markets

Small businesses were more optimistic on a “surge in capital spending and high sales expectations,” according to the National Federation of Independent Business' monthly Small Business Optimism index.

The Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority missed a September bond payment.

Hurricane Irma is the first test in many years for the bond-funded entities created to ensure Florida residents can obtain property insurance.

Top-quality municipal bonds ended weaker on Monday, according to traders, who were looking ahead to a $7.42 billion new issue slate dominated by deals from New York City and Maryland.

Minnesota's high court ordered the negotiations to resolve a funding dispute that's entangled a small piece of debt.

Improved reserve levels helped spur the district's first upgrade in seven years, though it remains speculative grade.

After a short week with slow and low volume, the primary municipal bond market with get a normal dose of issuance this week when there is cash to be put to work. Market participants' eyes will be on New York City, which is set to bring more than $1 billion.

Bankruptcy may be the only way for Hartford to solve its financial problems, said Connecticut's governor, Dannel Malloy.

Municipal utility districts in the Houston area were well stocked with cash before the storm hit, analysts said.

Gov. Tom Wolf has threatened a spending freeze and rating agencies have threatened more downgrades.