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.

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.)

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.

A good year for FHLB’s affordable housing programs; New York law evens up treatment of insurer and bank members; Freddie sells NPLs.

While market share of small- and mid-sized nonbank lenders grew, there was some leakage at the large nonbank lenders. Large mortgage companies’ market share fell sequentially to 53.8% from 56.1%. (Includes two data tables.)