Public Finance Update
States look to AI for its potential to help with finances
Artificial intelligence holds promise for creating budget-saving efficiencies, aiding in audits and helping with compliance. But the emerging technology also poses challenges that could affect spending.
The brave new world of local government debt management
COMMENTARY | Market volatility, economic uncertainty and factors like climate change are driving heightened risk, creating a tougher issuing environment and a more complex landscape.
Airports are finally back to their pre-pandemic normal, Fitch says
The ratings agency in the last year has upgraded the bond ratings of several major U.S. hubs amid record travel.
How governments are tackling medical debt
Medical debt can stymie communities’ economic mobility as unpaid hospital bills chip away at public dollars. That’s why local governments are looking to forgive residents’ medical debt, which experts say can be especially helpful for rural areas.
Another large bank plans to exit the muni market
It’s the second big bank to drop its municipal bond business this year. But its decision, which many believe is the result of anti-ESG politics, could have a significant impact.
What a major income tax case before the Supreme Court means for states
During oral arguments this week, the court signaled it was wary of issuing an opinion that could upend the tax code.
Helping cities flip money pits into gold mines
An incubator is working with cities to capitalize on their under-used properties by helping them to think like real estate developers.
How California and Florida are trying to stave off the home insurance crisis
Historically, the two states have had very different approaches to insuring against natural disasters. That’s changing.
Is it time to stop worrying about pensions?
Public pension numbers are looking better than they have in over a decade. But some worry it may not last.
Do opportunity zones work?
The jury is still out. But recent research has provided new insights into the tax incentive meant to lure investment to distressed areas.
Should states and localities be worried about the U.S. downgrade?
Or about the possibility of another one amid the budget showdown in Congress? Fitch Ratings’ decision to knock the federal government’s credit rating down a notch last month doesn’t directly affect state and local credit quality. But it’s a warning shot.
Featured eBooks
