In the world of municipal bonds, Harvard University has long been a name synonymous with financial security and prestige, boasting a robust portfolio and top-tier tax-exempt bonds. Yet, recent trends reveal a disturbing discounting of Harvard’s bonds as the esteemed institution grapples with unprecedented tensions with the Trump administration. Investors, once confident in the university’s
Politics
In recent months, the complexities of financial management in Washington D.C. have become a high-wire act that pivots between fiscal responsibility and audacious dreams of growth. Mayor Muriel Bowser, while unveiling a $21.8 billion budget for fiscal year 2026, made it clear that the city is facing a precarious balance between maintaining essential services and
Amidst the cacophony of American politics, the tension between state rights and federal oversight has reached a fever pitch, particularly concerning environmental regulations. California’s recent announcement to sue the Trump administration marks the state’s 23rd legal battle against the former president. With the federal government poised to retract California’s leading-edge vehicle emission standards, Governor Gavin
In a recent commentary, Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller made it clear that the central bank is stepping back from intervening in the Treasury market, despite unmistakable signs of deteriorating demand for U.S. debt. This uninvolved stance can potentially spell danger not only for the investing public but also for the broader economy. As long-term
The ongoing debate about the cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions has revealed a troubling reality for states across the U.S. In the face of increasing personal income tax revenues, many states are still struggling with dwindling corporate and sales tax inflows. This inconsistency highlights the pressures that state budgets are under, exacerbated
As America grapples with the pressing issues of infrastructure funding, our transit systems stand at a critical junction. The commitment to public transport is often overshadowed by the flashier allure of highways and road expansions. The recent deliberations around the Highway Trust Fund and potential surges in funding come with high stakes for the future
The unfolding drama surrounding the Puerto Rico Oversight Board and the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) is an emblem of the complexities and dilemmas that characterize public financial management. The current struggle over a staggering $3.7 billion in administrative expenses has highlighted some fundamental issues in how Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, addresses its
In an era where America’s infrastructure is teetering on the brink of inadequacy, the Trump administration’s Department of Transportation has crafted a distinctive approach to infrastructure funding that could dramatically reshape our public works landscape. While the Biden administration injected a substantial $1.2 trillion through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, ongoing hesitancies linger among policymakers, finance
The recent concerns raised by Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr regarding the detrimental impact of high import costs on small businesses serve as a wake-up call for economic stakeholders. With the tariffs established during the Trump administration bearing down heavily on Main Street, the repercussions could be disastrous for a sector that is often overlooked
In a significant turn of events that can only be described as an alarming wake-up call, Moody’s Ratings has downgraded Maryland’s general obligation ratings from a pristine triple-A to a Aa1, a move met with shockwaves of criticism and concern. This decision highlights the need for a candid reflection on both state and federal governance,