Delinquencies increased in the fourth quarter as borrowers faced growing financial pressure. Still, some of the increase in delinquencies looks to be related to a quirk in the calendar. (Includes data tables.)
The CFPB’s proposal on streamlining mortgage servicing standards will likely be issued this spring. The regulator is trying to balance loss-mitigation options and foreclosure protections.
The amount of Ginnie Mae servicing outstanding increased by 1.9% in the fourth quarter. On an annual basis, servicing volume was up 8.2%. Defaults on loans in Ginnie MBS are also rising, particularly for FHA loans. (Includes four data tables.)
CFPB issues advisory opinions on background checks, credit file disclosures requested by consumers; banks critical of advisory opinion on information requests; banks look to slow overdraft rulemaking; new servicing requirements in California; Senate fails to override veto of bill that would halt Section 1071 data collection.
While originations are expected to increase this year, margins might not improve much; First American back online following cyberattack; MSR demand expected to remain strong; held-to-maturity accounting lives on; new digital servicing platform; new buydown program.
Black Knight didn’t receive all of the damages it sought from PennyMac while the nonbank servicer is now free and clear to use proprietary technology that’s less expensive than Black Knight’s offerings.
When interest rates were low, escrow accounts were an afterthought in terms of MSR values. Now that interest rates are elevated, banks are seeing strong earnings from funds held in escrow accounts.
With the supply of MSRs expected to grow, there are concerns that prices won’t hold up. Meanwhile, the CFPB is considering incentives for lenders to retain servicing.
Delinquencies in the 30-60-day bucket are increasing in line with trends in unemployment. Foreclosures remain limited though there are concerns about borrowers with low levels of built-up equity. (Includes data table.)