Markets

The leadership change comes after a rating setback prompted the firm to stop seeking new muni business.

Former William Blair banker Peter Raphael joined the firm's public finance team.

Top-rated municipal bonds were stronger at midday, traders said, as the last of this week’s new issue supply was hitting the screens.

Municipal bond traders are set to see the last of this week’s new issue supply hit the screens on Thursday, with a big Florida sale leading the calendar.

Initial claims for U.S. state unemployment benefits rose by 3,000 to 244,000 in the August 5 week, compared with expectations for a 240,000 level. There was a small upward revision to the claims level in the previous week.

Final demand PPI fell 0.1% in July, both including and excluding food and energy prices, compared with expectations for 0.2% gains for both, data released Thursday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed.

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel told investors the city will soon launch the new debt issuance vehicle.

Top-quality municipal bonds finished stronger on Wednesday, traders said, as a few more deals hit the marketplace.

Bennet said six of the 90 counties qualifying for the designation are in Colorado.

The end of a casino revenue sharing agreement impacts the city's credit, says S&P.