The total delinquency rate on loans in agency MBS increased by 24 basis points during the fourth quarter. Delinquencies were up at FHA, VA and the GSEs. The rate is expected to rise modestly in 2025. (Includes data table.)

Associated Banc-Corp will take a loss in the fourth quarter; Chase packages seasoned jumbos in non-agency MBS; Octane Lending expands ABS issuance; another whole-business ABS from Jersey Mike’s.

The real estate investment trust sees positives in agency MBS despite concerns around the future of the GSEs.

Valverde leaving Ginnie; Cherry Hill ditches Middleman; mortgage rate futures planned; strong master servicer ranking for Computershare; new ETF with MBS; SFA appoints new global head of advocacy.

Improved execution is prompting some issuers to stock non-agency MBS with agency-eligible investment property loans.

It’s getting difficult to project mortgage rates in the near term, putting pressure on agency MBS investors. Still, analysts at BofA Global Research maintain an overweight for holdings of agency MBS.

Purchase mortgages and refis increased across the board in the agency MBS market in the third quarter, with the strongest growth seen in refis that carried primary mortgage insurance. (Includes three data tables.)

In the short term, there could be some volatility in the agency MBS market as investors adjust to the Fed’s moves. Longer term, volatility is expected to recede, helping investors in agency MBS.

REITs and overseas buyers could take up the slack.

Money managers overweight with agency MBS are looking to reduce their exposure, creating new investment opportunities for other segments of investors.