The new capital buffer deal has a limited life. At current earnings rates, Fannie will reach the $25 billion buffer cap in about two years, Freddie a little later.
Analyst Richard Bove thinks the new net worth sweep agreement is just a gimmick because the liquidation preference on Treasury’s preferred stock will offset any increase in the GSEs’ capital buffers.
On the issue of FHFA’s constitutionality, the court ruled for the plaintiffs. But rather than invalidate the net worth sweep, the court struck the “for-cause” provision from HERA.
The new cap structure will allow each firm to invest up to $100 billion in multifamily projects over the next five quarters. At least 37.5% of that investment must be for affordable housing.