Key Themes

  • The Municipal Index returned -0.24% in the first quarter and underperformed comparable taxable sectors by more than 2.5%.
  • The municipal yield curve steepened as long-term yields climbed and short-term yields fell, indicating an increased risk premium for interest rates.
  • Municipal valuations improved versus USTs on a maturity-matched basis; intermediate- and long-term Municipal-to-Treasury ratios are near one-year highs.
  • A-rated and BBB-rated municipals outperformed as credit spreads were little changed. We expect spreads to be flat to wider for the remainder of 2025.
  • We believe municipal yields offer a compelling option for tax-sensitive investors relative to taxable alternatives.

 

For an in-depth look
Municipal Market Quarterly Review