GSE credit ratings; big pay raise for Freddie exec; FHFA tech sprinter dashes to better mortgage.

Housing finance stakeholders continue to debate whether the Trump administration can safely release Fannie and Freddie from conservatorship.

The FHFA director’s criticism of FICO gave lenders a chance to call for price reductions on credit scores and reports. FICO countered by saying its wholesale prices are a tiny fraction of closing costs.

The controversial software giant will use its AI-powered financial crimes detection technology to scour Fannie’s vast databases for signs of mortgage fraud, starting with multifamily loans.

All insurance policies related to multifamily mortgage applications must now include the borrower as a “named insured” party.

A coalition of more than two dozen affordable and fair housing advocacy groups urged FHFA and HUD to reverse course on staffing cuts and program eliminations.

House Democrat Susie Lee of Nevada wants some answers about how many foreclosed homes in her state are bought by well-heeled investors from other places and how that affects the availability of affordable housing.

In post on X, FHFA Director Bill Pulte nudged the Federal Reserve chair to hike rates: “Jerome Powell cut rates right before the election at ‘higher’ levels of inflation. Why won’t he cut now?”

Fannie tender results; Fitch revises outlook for Freddie multifamily; Fannie announces winner of non-performing loan sale.

President Trump said he’s seriously considering letting Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac go public. Industry participants are now waiting for specific details.