Beyond Bulls & Bears

US budget season implications for the muni market
Fixed Income

US budget season implications for the muni market

A slowdown in US economic activity this year is likely to impact most states, which could face budget deficits, according to Jennifer Johnston, Franklin Templeton Fixed Income’s Director of Municipal Bond Research. She outlines implications for the muni market.

Municipal markets continue to feel the pressure this year, yet fundamentals remain stable
Fixed Income

Municipal markets continue to feel the pressure this year, yet fundamentals remain stable

The municipal bond market has not been immune to bouts of volatility hitting the markets this year, but there are still pockets of opportunity, according to Franklin Templeton Fixed Income’s Director of Municipal Bonds, Ben Barber. He points to improving technical conditions, stable fundamentals and inexpensive valuations that make the asset class look compelling.

Budget Season
Fixed Income

Budget Season

For US states, spring marks budget season, a time to check the ledger board and allocate funds to entities and projects within the state—or cut back where needed. Jennifer Johnston, our Municipal Bond Director of Research, explains what her team has an eye on when it comes to state budgets—and the good news is that, in general, things are looking pretty positive.