Major U.S. banks have continued to reduce their holdings in state and local government debt, decreasing their exposure by $3 billion in the third quarter. This trend was led by JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America, which together accounted for over half of the reduction. 

Other institutions, including State Street, Citigroup, and Morgan Stanley, also cut back on their municipal bond investments. This marks the third consecutive quarter of declining investments, the longest such retreat since 1996, driven largely by the reduced tax benefits following the corporate tax cuts. 

The banks' diminished demand has negatively impacted long-term municipal bonds, which have underperformed other maturities. However, the third-quarter reduction indicates a slower pace of the overall pullback compared to earlier in the year.

Finsum: Now might be an opportunity for those seeking value to consider munis as they are getting such little attention. 

National elections in the United States rely on over 774,000 poll workers to operate smoothly, alongside countless other volunteers who support activities like voter registration, transportation, and canvassing. Voting is central to democracy, but it is the dedication of these volunteers that makes free and fair elections possible.

 Changing how we view volunteering—from a casual choice to a vital civic duty—can strengthen communities and inspire broader participation in democratic processes. Volunteers are more likely to vote and feel deeply connected to their communities, yet the U.S. faces a decline in volunteerism that threatens its civic engagement. 

To reverse this trend, organizations and governments are working to make volunteering more accessible, such as by offering paid volunteer leave or organizing voter registration drives. 

Finsum: This is a great opportunity to for both community and civic engagement, and a less party centric way to engage with elections.

Gardening isn't just about growing plants; it's a wonderful way to cultivate wellness, both physically and mentally. Studies show that spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall well-being. If you've never gardened before, don't worry here are three tips to get you started: 

• Pay Attention to Sunlight

Sunlight is essential for most plants, especially vegetables, herbs, and fruits. Before you decide where to plant, take note of how sunlight moves through your yard. Aim for a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure your plants thrive.

• Start with Quality Soil

Healthy soil is the foundation of any successful garden. Invest in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. If you're planting directly in the ground, mix it into the existing soil, or use specially formulated soil for raised beds. This ensures your plants have the right environment to grow strong.

• Try Container Gardening

Short on space? Consider container gardening. Many plants, including vegetables, herbs, and flowers, grow well in pots. Choose containers that are appropriately sized for your plants and fill them with a potting mix that maintains moisture balance to prevent over- or under-watering.

Finsum: Gardening can bring a wealth of benefits from your life, from fresh produce in your daily cooking to a healthy outdoor experience.