In an impressive acknowledgment of his contributions to the financial sector, Mohammed Murad, the Director of Municipal Credit Research at PT Asset Management (PTAM), has been selected for Smith's 2025 All-Star Second Team in the category of Buyside Director of Research. This accolade, announced on December 5, 2025, highlights Murad's exemplary skills and dedication within the highly competitive municipal bond market.
Smith's All-Star Ballot is renowned for recognizing the top talents in the realm of municipal finance, particularly in research, strategy, and trading. In its 33rd edition, this prestigious ballot saw participation from over 315 analysts representing more than 85 firms. Factors determining the selection included votes from a diverse pool of over 1,000 institutional investors, making this recognition a significant achievement for any professional in the field.
Sean Dranfield, CEO of PTAM, stated, "Congratulations to Mohammed on this prestigious award. Along with his team, he has established a robust platform that enables PTAM to effectively understand the credit dynamics of a broad spectrum of municipal bond issuers. He is invaluable to our investment team." This sentiment of appreciation showcases a shared recognition among colleagues for Murad's brilliant analytical skills and capabilities in guiding the firm's approach to credit.
Mike Plaiss, Senior Portfolio Manager at PTAM, echoed similar sentiments by stating, "This recognition is indeed deserved. Anyone who works with him daily knows that he is undoubtedly an all-star credit analyst." Such praise not only speaks to Murad's individual capabilities but also reflects the collaborative environment at PTAM, fostering excellence in research and investment analysis.
PT Asset Management, headquartered in Chicago, utilizes a rate-agnostic approach to managing fixed income assets and demonstrates a commitment to achieving outstanding long-term results across various market conditions. As of October 31, 2025, PTAM oversaw $10.9 billion in assets, encompassing a range of investment vehicles, including mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and separately managed accounts primarily for institutional clients.
The firm's commitment to independent thinking, disciplined analysis, and data-driven decision-making in the municipal bond market is evident in how it positions itself against its competitors. Such recognition of Mohammed Murad substantiates PTAM's reputation as an innovative institution within the investment community, constantly aiming for excellence in its offerings.
In a market that continually evolves, the importance of skilled analysts like Murad cannot be overstated. His strategic insights and leadership not only enhance the understanding of municipal credit dynamics but also reflect PTAM’s overall dedication to superior investment practices. As the municipal bond market faces new challenges and opportunities, individuals like Murad ensure that the firm remains a front-runner in navigating these complexities effectively.
For more information about PT Asset Management and its investment strategies, visit
PTAM's website or contact them at their dedicated email address. As always, investing carries risks, and potential investors should be aware of these before making any financial decisions.