Why Leveraged-Loan Issuance Is Picking Up

The US leveraged loan market is experiencing a surge in activity, with volumes reaching over $28 billion, making it the most active month since January. This increase is largely due to refinancing and repricing, rather than new money inflows. Speculative deals, such as Blackstone's $2.5 billion dividend recapitalization, are prominent. Despite some market fluctuations, there is a growing appetite for riskier assets, driven by low yields and a search for returns. Leveraged loans are benefiting as companies capitalize on these conditions.

What has been the trend in loan prices since the beginning of the year according to the text?

What factors are contributing to the search for yield in the leveraged loan market?