Nine expanded-credit MBS hit the market in the past two weeks, with the deals largely backed by mortgages originated in recent months.

After temporarily suspending originations during the pandemic, wholesaler ClearEdge Lending is ramping up production of non-agency mortgages.

Bank and thrift holdings of first liens declined for a second consecutive quarter, after years of increases. Among the largest banks, trends varied. (Includes data chart.)

Chase’s nonprime servicing portfolio increased tenfold to $44.40 billion at the end of March. The spike was due to a change in the way the bank reports numbers and not because of an influx of new servicing. (Includes data chart.)

Trade groups representing lenders are urging regulators to maintain the link between QMs and loans exempt from mandatory risk retention.

Non-agency forbearance reading increases; non-QM lenders make personnel moves; Moody’s withdraws its jumbo assessment of Quicken Loans, Regions Bank to acquire home-improvement lender.

Jumbo correspondent lending continued to make its comeback in the first quarter of 2021 after a sharp drop in volume tied to the coronavirus. Trends were mixed among lenders that focus on the retail channel. (Includes data chart.)

The non-agency market has emerged as an alternative, albeit at a higher cost, for lenders to deliver GSE-eligible mortgages backed by investment properties and second homes. However, some lenders are concerned about the adverse impact GSE restrictions could have.

Investors and borrowers alike are showing strong demand for fix-and-flip business purpose loans. Originators see volume rising and new players are entering the sector.

Chase issued its fifth large prime non-agency MBS of the year, along with a number of more traditionally sized deals. United Wholesale Mortgage is also set to issue its first deal.