Beginning in March, the GSEs loosened certain appraisal standards due to complications from the coronavirus. A number of non-agency lenders are following the GSEs’ lead.

Neuberger Berman issued a non-QM MBS this week, ending a lull in issuance that started in late February due to volatility from the coronavirus. Other issuers also plan to return to the market.

Redwood took a $943 million loss in the first quarter amid volatility from the coronavirus. The REIT laid off about 35% of its employees in April, among other adjustments.

The non-agency MBS market could face problems if it fails to set uniform standards on forbearance, according to the Milken Institute.

Profit at Velocity Financial declined in the first quarter and half the staff was temporarily furloughed. Still, the firm plans to issue an MBS in the coming weeks and get back on track.

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The stall in issuance of non-QM MBS could be close to an end. Two firms plan to issue deals, though the exact timing isn’t clear.

Forbearance on non-agency mortgages is on the rise, presenting liquidity risk for servicers. Federal agencies have yet to offer a helping hand.

Underwriting standards are tighter and there are fewer lenders in the market, but jumbo mortgages are still being originated.

Annaly’s investments in non-agency assets fell by 33% between the end of 2019 and March 31. The REIT sold some of its holdings and issued two non-agency MBS during the first quarter.