Loan applications took a dive last week but for the most part lenders remain optimistic about the months ahead. Meanwhile, a fintech lender plans to buy a bank, an industry first.

Federal Reserve economists found that black and Hispanic borrowers ended up with mortgage rates 2 to 3 bps higher than those of white borrowers. But they also found that these minority borrowers paid fewer points, offsetting the difference in interest rates.

The wholesale-broker market was the fastest-growing production channel in 2019 and reached its strongest annual volume since the financial crisis. Retail saw bigger gains in the fourth quarter as refinance volume spiked. (Includes six data charts.)

Wells Fargo will soon have a new mortgage chief: Michael Weinbach, who comes over from JPMorgan Chase. His mission: to control the megabank’s mortgage message.

Mortgage lenders are increasingly taking advantage of social media platforms to advertise and maintain customer relationships.

Miami withdrew mortgage-related lawsuits against BofA, Citi, Chase and Wells. Another lawsuit against Wells was certified as class action.

Bye bye to LIBOR for Fannie and Freddie / What do Non-QM CEOs Earn?

In late 2019, conventional-conforming originations hit their highest quarterly volume since the epic 2003 mortgage market. Government lending wasn't far behind.

In late 2019, conventional-conforming originations hit their highest quarterly volume since the epic 2003 mortgage market. Government lending wasn't far behind. (Includes two data charts.)