Some lenders are ramping up hiring in anticipation of a cut in interest rates later this year. However, some observers don’t believe a rate cut will boost originations enough to warrant rising headcounts.

FHFA hosted a symposium on improving the relationship between the FHLBanks and CDFIs.

Mortgage production at the midway point was up a scant 4.1% compared with the first half of 2023. Originations increased sharply on a sequential basis in the second quarter due to a seasonal trend. (Includes two data tables.)

Interest rates on mortgages declined in May and June but demand for purchase mortgages remained constrained. Industry participants aren’t optimistic that production will pick up much through the rest of the year.

Economists still differ in their forecasts about how many times the Fed will cut rates this year and what that means for mortgage originations.

Investors are increasingly turning to the mortgage market to fund their home purchases rather than paying all cash.

Two publicly-traded mortgage companies recently completed reverse stock splits and a third split is in the works.

The new data will help lenders determine the impact of the upcoming shift from a tri-merge credit reporting process to a bi-merge model.

Big banks increased their mortgage originations in the second quarter. But halfway through the year, volume is down at many of the banks.

Many mortgage industry trade groups believe changing the mission of the Federal Home Loan Bank system is Congress’ responsibility rather than that of the FHFA.