Another subprime auto ABS issuer closed its dealerships last week. Back-up servicers can help to protect investors from failing issuers, though there were some complications with a recent servicing transfer.

The RMBS rating business nearly ground to a halt in the fourth quarter, but ECM was the place to be in 2022. ABS fared a little better, with business-finance and consumer deals showing relative strength. (Includes two data charts.)

S&P Global Ratings said that the advantages of decentralized finance securitizations, including increased transaction speeds and greater transparency, are counterbalanced by several risks in the sector. Many of the risks are inherent to the use of a blockchain, like difficulty correcting errors in registered information.

Ginnie reduces minimum required pool size for HMBS; Ares Management to issue non-QM MBS; S&P extends comment period on triple-net lease changes; Stifel builds out agency MBS unit; commercial MBS issuers urged to consider advertising.

Governance and social risks are the main ESG factors that affect credit ratings of MBS and ABS, while environmental relevance remains low, according to Fitch Ratings.

As purse strings tighten, the quick-service restaurant space is expected to do well given the value and convenience it offers customers. But the same cannot be said for the casual-dining sector, S&P analysts say.

Fitch Ratings said the most robust subprime auto ABS issuers will probably perform well even in a downturn, but several risks lie ahead for the sector.

Analysts expect SoFi’s first consumer loan securitization of 2022 to perform “very well” from a credit quality perspective. The ABS is stocked with collateral seasoned for a longer than usual period.

The ABS tied to loans to developing and growth-stage companies is Horizon Technology Finance’s second such deal to date.

Although the storm primarily caused flooding, auto ABS transactions are protected from extensive losses because of their robust structures and credit enhancement, S&P said.