While the FHLBanks tout the utility of the system’s status quo, small independent mortgage bankers push a change that would give nonbanks access to FHLB credit without FHLB membership.

FHFA applies a capital treatment to banks that differs from those used by federal banking regulators. The differences could limit banks’ ability to access Federal Home Loan Bank advances.

Funding for affordable housing and community investment programs declined across the board as the FHLBanks’ profits waned in 2021.

FHFA is expected to produce a long list of recommended actions to modernize the FHLBank system, but large-scale reform will probably require legislation.

An increase in member borrowing contributes to a $105 million increase in profits for the FHLB system. (Includes three data charts.)

FHFA says the new committee will provide greater transparency on policy and give shareholders more input on matters related to affordable, equitable and sustainable housing.

During a recent congressional hearing, FHFA Director Sandra Thompson said the agency will conduct a 90-year lookback as well as a forward-looking analysis of the FHLBank system.

A new research paper co-authored by officials at the Federal Reserve argues that the public/private nature of the FHLBs has allowed them to engage in activities not expressly foreseen by Congress.

The Ocwen subsidiary will purchase MSRs through the FHLBank of Indianapolis’ mortgage purchase program. PHH will also offer subservicing to banks and nonbank lenders that are members of the bank.

The Federal Housing Finance Agency’s auditor concluded that the agency complied with an executive order making climate-related risk a priority for financial regulators.