RMK Financial/Majestic Home Loans has been permanently banned from the mortgage business for violating terms of an earlier consent order in which the lender agreed to cease its deceptive advertising practices.

It’s been four months since FHFA approved new credit scoring models for loans delivered to the GSEs. While the transition wasn’t going to be quick, industry participants are still waiting on a timeline.

The data firm’s purchase of fintech Roostify takes place in the shadow of the controversial ICE/Black Knight merger attempt.

More M&A talk is hitting the market. One possible buyer is Movement Mortgage, the nation’s 24th largest home lender. Meanwhile, Steve Adamo has parted ways with Embrace Home Loans.

At press time it wasn’t immediately clear when the Supreme Court will hear arguments in the case.

The change affects new loans endorsed on or after March 20. The last MIP cut occurred in early 2015, when FHA trimmed premiums by 50 bps for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages.

By booking a higher provision for credit losses in the third quarter, Freddie set the stage for improved financial performance in the fourth.

MBA’s Bob Broeksmit this week criticized the 250% risk weighting placed on mortgage servicing rights held by federally insured depositories. Meanwhile, several top-ranked servicers discussed issues and challenges they’re facing, from forbearance to automation and beyond.

The delinquency rate was pushed up during the fourth quarter by a weakening economy and inflation. The unemployment rate is projected to increase this year, which will likely drive delinquencies higher. (Includes data chart.)

The sale of mortgage company “assets” are increasing while “franchise” deals remain few and far between. What lies ahead? In a few quarters we may see larger shops merge, one consultant predicted.