Northeast

Triple-A curves were a touch firmer in spots as secondary trading took a backseat to the larger primary activity with Connecticut and Massachusetts pricing general obligation bonds, a large CommonSpirit healthcare and several competitive issues led by Rhode Island GOs.

"Despite a pick-up in volatility in the rates market, municipals have been performing relatively well in October," according to Barclays PLC.

A Rhode Island GO deal pricing next week includes $100 million for public schools; a measure on the ballot in November would authorize $250 million more.

The Investment Company Institute reported $5.128 billion of outflows for the week ending Oct. 5 after $5.374 billion of outflows the previous week.

The rating outlook boost to positive from stable follows recent progress on steadying reserve rates and paying down debt, S&P said.

Local leaders have met with New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection officials twice over the last two months over concerns about operations of Trenton Water Works, the local utility provider.

The Rhode Island Health and Educational Building Corporation closed an $85 million deal for schools in Johnston.

Friday's action brings the state's outlook to positive with all four major credit rating agencies.

Triple-A yields rose more than three-quarters of a point on the front end and nearly half a point out long in September as munis posted 3.84% losses.

Baby bonds provide a long-term remedy by fostering upward mobility, while current anti-poverty measures do not, according to panelist Scott Winship.