Municipal Bond News & Insight

• Supercharged Munis

Forbes magazine takes a closer look at our view on laddering and likes what it sees.

• When Bond Insurance Does Matter

Is bond insurance a waste of money? Some pundits think so. Despite never questioning the value of bond insurance until guarantors hit the skids, many now say insurance is irrelevant. We beg to differ. Just take a look at the situation unfolding in Jefferson County, Alabama.

• S&P Boosts Its Outlook On Municipal Bonds

Bondholders can expect to see upgraded ratings in their municipal bond portfolios following a major review by Standard &Poors of its rating criteria.

• House Considers Easing Rules On Issuing Tax-Free Bonds

In a bid to help fix the housing crisis, the House of Representatives is considering a bill that would ease rules governing the use of tax-exempt bonds. The measure would help first-time homeowners and encourage construction of low-income housing.

• Court Dismisses Major Tobacco Lawsuit

The tobacco industry prevailed in yet another potentially costly lawsuit after a federal appeals court dismissed the class-action status in the Schwab case.