Industry observers don’t expect the move to prompt major declines in interest rates this year.

The commercial MBS market continues to offer opportunities for investors willing to actively manage their portfolios.

The Zip transaction is the first buy now, pay later securitization rated by Fitch Ratings.

Morningstar DBRS and Moody’s gained share in non-agency MBS ratings in the second quarter, while S&P made up ground in the ABS market. Fitch, however, remained the top rating service in both sectors. (Includes two data charts.)

Even when excluding a large issuance in the first quarter of seasoned closed-end second liens, securitizations of home equity loans declined on a quarterly basis in the second quarter. (Includes three data files.)

Off and on since 2013, Egan-Jones Ratings Company has sought certification from the SEC for ratings of ABS. Last week, the SEC denied the latest application from the rating service.

Insurance companies continue to grow their residential whole-loan portfolios as they look to diversify investments.

The appellate court ruled that entities that purchase defaulted mortgages must be licensed in the state.

Loans in the planned securitization were originated by Resfin Partners, an affiliate of investment firm Castlelake.