Shows
On InvestingWhat's Happening in the Muni Bond Market?Liz Ann Sonders and Kathy Jones discuss the implications of the Federal Reserve's annual Jackson Hole meeting, focusing on monetary policy, labor market dynamics, housing market challenges, and the impact of tariffs on inflation. They explore how these factors influence economic indicators and the Fed's decision-making process moving forward. Then, Cooper Howard, director and fixed income strategist at the Schwab Center for Financial Research, joins the show to discuss the state of the muni bond market and where there might be opportunities for investors. He and Kathy cover why munis have underperformed other parts of the fixed in...
2025-08-2234 minOn InvestingWhy Are Munis Attractive Right Now?Kathy Jones and Liz Ann Sonders discuss the pause on some tariffs and the impact on the equities market. Then, Kathy interviews Cooper Howard about the features of municipal bonds in the current landscape. They explore the implications of federal funding on state and local governments and the challenges faced by higher-education institutions. The discussion also covers practical investment strategies for municipal bonds, including the importance of credit quality, diversification, and the considerations for investing in state versus in out-of-state bonds.On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.co...
2025-05-1631 minOn InvestingClimate Shocks & the Muni Bond MarketIn this conversation, Kathy Jones and Cooper Howard discuss the impact of climate shocks, particularly wildfires in Los Angeles, on the municipal bond market. They explore the risks associated with California municipal bonds, the financial implications for issuers, and the broader trends in climate-related events. Cooper emphasizes the importance of diversification for investors to mitigate potential risks and highlights the increasing frequency of climate shocks over the years. The discussion also touches on the role of federal assistance in managing the aftermath of such events. You can read more from Cooper Howard about municipal bonds, including the po...
2025-01-1721 minOn InvestingHow Do You Build a Bond Portfolio?In this conversation, Kathy Jones talks with Cooper Howard, who is an expert on the topic of municipal bonds. They delve into the intricacies of bond investing, discuss the importance of bonds, exactly how to build a bond portfolio, and the various types of bonds suitable for retirees and other investors. They explore the differences between individual bonds and bond funds, the significance of account types for bond investments, and the bond ladder strategy as a practical approach. The discussion also touches on navigating current opportunities in bond investing, particularly in relation to interest rates and market conditions.
2024-12-0628 minOn InvestingMarket Outlook: What's in Store for 2024?After a tumultuous year for the markets, what's in store for 2024? In this year-end episode, Schwab experts look ahead to consider what investors might expect from the markets in the new year.First, Liz Ann Sonders, Schwab's chief investment strategist, speaks with senior investment strategist Kevin Gordon. Liz Ann offers her perspective on the direction of the U.S. economy and stock market. She and Kevin discuss inflation, interest rates, company earnings, and the job market, among other topics.Next, Kathy Jones, Schwab's chief fixed income strategist interviews her colleagues Collin Martin and Cooper Howard. K...
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