Among the lenders currently offering non-QMs, underwriting standards are tighter and interest rates on the loans are higher than earlier in the year. Industry participants are optimistic that the sector will rebound, eventually.

A coalition of industry trade groups asked the SEC to revise standards for publicly registered non-agency MBS. They suggested aligning standards with practices for private placements.

Neuberger Berman issued a non-QM MBS this week, ending a lull in issuance that started in late February due to volatility from the coronavirus. Other issuers also plan to return to the market.

Angel Oak is originating non-QMs again and a handful of other shops plan to re-enter as well. However, some lenders continue to hold off.

The stall in issuance of non-QM MBS could be close to an end. Two firms plan to issue deals, though the exact timing isn’t clear.

Sprout Mortgage, the third-ranked expanded-credit lender in 2019, has restarted non-QM lending, but with tighter underwriting standards.

The types of mortgages included in expanded-credit MBS changed somewhat during the first quarter of 2020, even before COVID-19 hit. (Includes three data charts.)

Annaly’s investments in non-agency assets fell by 33% between the end of 2019 and March 31. The REIT sold some of its holdings and issued two non-agency MBS during the first quarter.

The CFPB likely will propose revisions to QM standards in May. Feedback from non-agency participants could be minimized as the market for non-QMs collapsed recently.

Redwood MBS could be downgraded due to stop-advance feature; Moody’s assesses Finance of America Mortgage; non-QM lender PCMA signs lease for new headquarters.