The development of a deal agent for new non-agency MBS has spanned years, with industry participants working toward the best way to compensate the new transaction party, among other issues. A deal agent would have a fiduciary duty to investors, oversee enforcement of representations and warranties, and monitor various participants in a security. The new role is significant because some major investors say that after suffering major losses on MBS issued before the financial crisis, a deal agent is required for them to buy new securities. Clayton Holdings was...