Some economists argue that allowing originators to pick between VantageScore 4.0 and Classic FICO will lead to score inflation and lower revenue for the GSEs.

The administration’s firing of FHFA’s acting inspector general comes on the heels of the departure of several GSE executives and news that most of the ethics and internal investigations team at Fannie have been laid off.

Fannie and Freddie see the sun set on the CARES Act; Freddie executes EXPO transaction.

Amid pressure from some lender trade groups, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac increased their investments in agency MBS during the third quarter. The move can drive down mortgage rates and goose GSE profits. (Includes data table.)

The prospects of a year-end stock offering didn’t prevent the wholesale reshuffle in Fannie Mae leadership.

Fannie Mae Chief Operating Officer Peter Akwaboah will serve as acting CEO, pending a search for Priscilla Almodovar’s successor. EVPs Brandon Hamara and John Roscoe will serve as co-presidents.

Mortgage industry stakeholders pump the breaks on GSE reform while the administration still seems to have its foot on the gas.

Allowing the GSEs, under certain conditions, to purchase up to $300 billion in agency MBS each could reduce mortgage rates by as much as 30 basis points, lender groups say.

Because VantageScore 4.0 typically yields higher credit scores than Classic FICO, it’s possible lenders will choose VantageScore, leading to higher scores and lower LLPA revenues.

The FHFA released its first strategic plan under the auspices of Director Bill Pulte. The plan reveals some differing priorities compared with the FHFA under the Biden administration.