FHFA Director Mark Calabria said he would be willing to wipe out Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac shareholders if needed to ensure taxpayers don’t have to bail out the mortgage giants again.
According to analyst Jaret Seiberg, the risks posed by the Supreme Court’s decision explains why FHFA is considering releasing Fannie and Freddie from conservatorship via a consent decree.
The Supreme Court has agreed to review a case challenging the constitutionality of the CFPB. Regardless of its decision, it likely will not be the end of the controversy surrounding the bureau’s leadership structure.
To reach their statutory minimum capital levels, Fannie and Freddie may only need to accrue an extra $16 billion and $14 billion respectively, based on the size of their current capital buffer plus retained second-quarter earnings.
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.
Legislation was passed earlier this year to curb abuses tied to VA rapid refis but lender violations remain an issue. At least, that’s how the VA sees it. Big audits may be in the works.
Not only is FHFA Director Mark Calabria homing in on a roadmap to end the conservatorship of Fannie and Freddie, he clearly believes the exit can take place before the two entities are fully capitalized.