For the first time, Freddie was able to charge a higher average g-fee for new single-family business during the fourth quarter of 2019. Pricing disparity was a key driver in the development of the uniform MBS.

Issuance of single-family MBS backed by newly originated loans rose 12.3% from the third to the fourth quarter, while primary-market production was up just 7.9%. (Includes data chart.)

Strike while the iron’s hot: Mortgage REITs are raising cash by selling additional shares of common. How long can the trend last?

The increase in agency MBS from December to January came from the Ginnie program, which has a slower securitization process than Fannie and Freddie. And some loans may have been held back to benefit from higher loan limits. (Includes two data charts.)

The principal change in the proposed FHFA rule is to treat Ginnie mortgages differently from those of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

Hiring of a financial advisor marks a significant milestone toward ending the conservatorships of the GSEs, says FHFA Director Mark Calabria.

Fannie's massive CAS deal backed by seasoned HARP loans drove credit-risk note offerings to a record $4.54 billion in the fourth quarter of 2019. (Includes data chart.)

December was a slow month for MBS trades but 2019, on average, was quite good. Meanwhile, just when you thought rates might start rising, a monkey wrench or two gets thrown into the works.

As the industry moves from LIBOR to SOFR, the ARRC is seeking input on whether the spread-adjustment methodology for cash products should be consistent with what’s adopted internationally for derivatives.

Fannie and Freddie should report blowout earnings for the fourth quarter. How’s that? Strong securitization volumes and no negative hedging results.