SFA published best practices for ESG disclosures for residential MBS and auto ABS. The association is starting with a limited number of disclosures and plans to expand the effort.

Issuance of auto ABS in the third quarter of 2023 has topped issuance from the second quarter. Issuers are seeing strong demand from investors despite rising defaults. An auto worker strike is also introducing some uncertainty.

Housing finance officials don’t have the tools to quantify climate risk or prepare for it, according to FHA Chief of Staff Nathan Schultz.

Increased demand for internet capacity has seen firms turn to securitization to fund digital infrastructure projects.

Trade groups representing large banks and mortgage lenders warn that a July proposal to increase capital requirements for large banks could push depositories further from the mortgage market.

MSR prices, especially for conventional low-coupon product, have firmed up nicely. Some large holders are cashing in. But others are choosing to live off processing income until originations snap back.

FHFA has delayed a switch to a bi-merge credit score process at the GSEs. Industry participants are still waiting for data that is needed to help with the transition to new scoring models.

Lenders are using numerous tactics to originate mortgages for first-time buyers. There are also calls for FHA to drop its downpayment requirements.

When the Federal Reserve begins cutting rates next year, the mortgage industry will become “fat” again. At least that’s what some believe. The immediate challenge: surviving until then.

Tighter margins and a seasonal slowdown in home buying are prompting lenders to consider an exit in the coming months.