Total ABS issuance reached its second-highest quarterly total in the first three months of 2026. Securitization of auto loans and data-center revenue were key factors. (Includes three data tables.)
The value of agency MBS declined sharply following the start of the war with Iran. More recently, volatility has declined, prompting some major agency MBS investors to see continued promise in the assets.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac appear to be buying more MBS at times when spreads widen. They’re also hedging the purchases with interest rate swaps, according to industry participants.
The comment period on a concept release from the SEC to revise disclosure requirements on MBS and ABS closed in December. Since then, SEC officials have held a number of meetings with industry groups.