SIE Understanding Products and Their Risks Question 44: Answer and Explanation

Question: 44

Which of the following is a prominent agency that rates municipal bonds but is not one of the top two?

• A. Fitch Ratings
• B. Moody's Investors Service
• C. Standard & Poor's Global Ratings
• D. Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB)

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

A: Choice A is correct because Fitch Ratings is a prominent agency that rates municipal bonds, with an approximate market share of 15%. It is not as widely used as Moody's Investors Service and Standard & Poor's Global Ratings. Therefore, Choices B and C are incorrect. Choice D is incorrect because the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB), is a regulatory board and not a rating service.