Earlier in the year, production forecasts were downright glum. But thanks to the never-ending rate rally, 2019 could turn out to be a $2 trillion-plus year for originations.

A New York district court has ruled against Bank of America in a case relating to interest payments on escrow accounts.

The bank had more than 200 violations of a five-year limit for holding REO properties, according to a consent order. Citi was warned repeatedly of the violations before the OCC moved to fine the bank.

The industry is bracing for another round of negative servicing marks tied to MSRs. However, strong origination results for the third quarter should buffer the carnage.

Origination pipelines remain full and lenders, for the most part, are feeling optimistic about profits. Can it last? Probably, as long as rates remain low.

Mortgage vendor Altisource this week closed its consumer advisory service Owners.com, even though home sales and originations remain brisk.

Remember when rates ticked up a few weeks ago? Forget about it. Rates fell again, applications are strong and pipelines are full.

Based on reports from non-QM lenders Angel Oak and Citadel, the third quarter was a strong one for most originators. Meanwhile, the Ditech wind-down is almost over.

Bulk mortgage servicing sales have been slow in the third quarter, but that doesn’t mean bidders have been hibernating. If rates rise just a little bit and stay there, auctions of MSRs could boom.

The FHFA is doing its best to make certain the expansionist tendencies of Fannie and Freddie are held in check. Also, a crackdown on g-fee “deals.”