The MSRB's request for information on environmental, social and governance considerations in the muni market showed just how uneasy market participants are feeling.

Green bond issuance may offer no pricing benefit to issuers, but observers have noticed that the process of issuing a green bond often leads to an expanded investor base.

A report from CreditSights says risks will increase for coastal issuers of municipal bonds with increased flooding at high tides and during storms.

In a Bond Buyer survey, 57% of participants believe issuance will be less than $475 billion. Additionally, 47% said ESG would have the greatest impact on the public finance industry in 2022.

The evolution of environmental, social and governance investment has been rapid in the muni market. Early adapters discuss its implications.

Market participants are wary that regulators may muddle ESG risk disclosure guidance with guidance regarding labeled bonds.

Issuance of ESG bonds is projected to grow 23% this year, while the entire market only expands by 2%, S&P Global Ratings analysts said.

The Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board’s request for information on environmental social and governance factors is beginning to collect responses from issuers and practitioners alike, revealing some of the market’s initial priorities.

Industry advocacy groups want uniform rules that enhance clarity and common understanding without adding complexity or liability.

Timothy Little said he's looking for input from a diverse array of muni market participants in his new data-gathering role at the New York Federal Reserve.

The Municipal Rulemaking Securities Board's annual report and audited financial statements were published Tuesday.

Other concerns include ongoing threats from the coronavirus, inflation and legislative inertia on muni issues in Washington, according to a Bond Buyer survey.

Building on the success of its Green Liberty Bonds, a subsidiary of the Connecticut Green Bank will allow mom and pop investors to place orders for as little as $100 for Green Liberty Notes until Friday.

Central bankers need to speak up about economic barriers prompted by racism and the need for inclusion and diversity, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta President Raphael Bostic said, a response to critics who see the work as a distraction from the Fed’s main goals. 

The competitive tax-exempt Louisville and Jefferson County Metropolitan Sewer District deal is climate bond certified by Kestrel Verifiers.

Todd Cipperman, founding principal of Cipperman Compliance Services, talks with Chip Barnett about compliance and disclosure and regulation by the federal government in 2022. (42 minutes)

The New York State Common Retirement Fund also said it invested $2 billion in an index focused on reducing the risks of climate change and capitalizing on opportunities in the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Experts explore the E, S and G and what it means for issuers and investors.