Independent mortgage bankers continue to argue that GSE caps on risk-layering and limits on mortgages for second homes and investment properties will harm borrowers and lenders alike.
KBW analysts believe it will take 15 years for the two government-sponsored enterprises to meet FHFA’s capital requirement to exit conservatorship. KBW reduced its target price on Fannie and Freddie stocks to $1.00 each.
Sen. Pat Toomey, R-PA, the ranking member of the Senate Banking Committee, this week indicated the GOP may be ready to compromise on key issues related to GSE reform.
Treasury’s stake in the GSEs should be used to create a joint venture focused on affordable housing. Also, to ensure success, Fannie and Freddie should be converted into utilities, two industry pros recommend.
New Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has yet to pick who will lead housing policy and GSE reform in the Biden administration. However, liberal think tanks may be a good place to look.
Newly installed SBC Chair Sherrod Brown lambasted FHFA for ignoring the spirit of the CARES Act by allowing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to sell nonperforming and reperforming loans during the pandemic.
The amended preferred stock purchase agreement provides Treasury with a liquidation preference, which undermines the GSEs’ ability to afford an exit from conservatorship.
Mortgage insurers have endorsed the proposed guidelines, even arguing the process should be made more transparent and objective. However, Quicken believes it will stifle innovation by the GSEs.