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Municipal bonds have struggled so far in 2025 as increased issuance and elevated volatility have weighed on prices. However, with risks to the current economic expansion rising, the case for munis has only grown more compelling. On a tax-equivalent basis, muni yields are higher relative to Treasuries and compete with those offered by corporate credit. Additionally, the muni yield curve is steeper than other markets, meaning investors are compensated more for extending duration. At the same time, they have less credit risk. Not only do state balance sheets look healthy but across credit ratings, municipal bond default rates have been consistently lower than those of corporate bonds. All this said, the sector is not without its challenges. Federal spending cuts, tariffs and restrictive immigration policies could disrupt activity across municipalities, although these impacts will be felt differently across sectors and regions.

On this episode of Insights Now, Gabriela Santos is joined by Neene Jenkins, Head of Municipal Credit Research, to discuss Neene’s outlook for the sector.

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In the world of fixed income markets, investors are constantly navigating through a landscape marked by shifting economic dynamics and global diversification trends. As emerging market debt gains traction amid recent policy changes and currency fluctuations, the allure of higher yields and diversification opportunities becomes increasingly compelling. In this episode of Insights Now, join Gabriela Santos and Janet He, Head of EM Sovereign Research, as they explore the potential benefits and considerations of incorporating emerging market debt into investment portfolios.

Subscribe to the Notes on the Week Ahead podcast for more insights from Dr. David Kelly: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

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Over the last two decades, the alternative investment industry has undergone significant changes globally as investors at all levels increasingly seek the unique returns and diversification benefits these assets offer within their portfolios. With the growing popularity of alternative investments, there's an increasing need for thought leadership to guide investors through the historic and current dynamics of various alternative asset classes.

In this episode, Aaron Mulvihill is joined by Kerry Craig and Aaron Hussein, both Global Market Strategists at J.P. Morgan Asset Management. Together, they will delve into the alternative investment industry across different markets worldwide and share valuable insights gathered from clients on the road.

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Subscribe to the Notes on the Week Ahead podcast for more insights from Dr. David Kelly: Apple Podcasts | Spotify