Ginnie Mae’s cash holdings increased in fiscal year 2021, marking the sixth consecutive year of growth. The agency, which is largely operated by contractors, said it has adequate capital to withstand a downturn in the housing market.

In its fiscal 2021 annual report, Ginnie Mae updated investors on moving its staff to work from home during the pandemic and how it can mitigate future risks through its environmental, social and governance efforts.

Julia Gordon, President Biden’s nominee for FHA commissioner, received a tie vote this week in the Senate Banking Committee. She was renominated for the position earlier this month.

The HUD Office of the Inspector General has recommended new procedures to address deficiencies in how FHA handles unpaid refunds that are due to borrowers.

FHA Catalyst activates new mortgagee administrator role; VA increasing aggregate loan guarantee funding for specially adapted housing; Ginnie Mae to adopt blockchain technology; VA to hike fines for lenders that make false loan guarantee certifications.

On the industry wish list: better monitoring of prepayments and support for affordable housing to underserved markets.

FHA extends deadline for feedback on HECMs; FHA revises effective dates for the transition to its Catalyst default monitoring system; VA extends its assisted appraisal processing program; Fannie Mae Desktop Underwriter for government loans to undergo system changes this month; Ginnie to host listening session; Mid America Mortgage secures a gestation repo line; policy changes at FHFA could boost competition between GSE and FHA lenders.

Alanna McCargo will be the first Senate-confirmed president of Ginnie Mae since 2017.

A rule allowing borrowers to purchase private flood insurance can be expected in February, according to HUD’s recently released agenda.

In comments due last week, industry and consumer groups sought clarity on the transition from LIBOR for adjustable-rate mortgages.