Primis Bank, SmartBank, Bank7 and other smaller banks are touting efforts to increase their mortgage lending. Meanwhile, some banks continue to pull back from the sector.

Alerting delinquent borrowers of their home equity might lead some to sell for a profit, avoiding the costs and disruptions incurred by foreclosure, according to industry analysts.

ICE’s lender clients are interested in using AI for document automation and customer engagement.

Rithm puts off potential spin-off of Newrez; Robinhood partners with Sage Home Loans for mortgage perks; AngelAi touts valuation; Bilt to allow mortgage payments via Venmo; PartnerOne to acquire Mortgage Cadence.

The Fed’s shift to rate cuts is helping to increase demand for agency MBS. And other activity at the federal level has prompted a reduction in volatility, providing stability for investors.

With the near-term outlook hazy for the government’s SNAP food assistance program as the shutdown drags on, any reduction or end to payments could add to the mounting financial pressures recipients already face, putting pressure on ABS performance.

While the Fed is moving away from purchases of agency MBS, portfolio managers at PIMCO believe additional purchases are warranted. In the meantime, the GSEs are increasing their investments.

A strong pipeline should help keep momentum going for commercial MBS issuance in the fourth quarter. But long-term challenges remain due to the government shutdown.

Fintech firm Pagaya inked a forward flow agreement with investment firm Castlelake for up to $500 million in auto loans.

Home improvement ABS are attractive for investors because borrowers have high credit scores and low delinquency rates.