February marked the fifth month in a row when agency MBS issuance topped $300 billion. Although purchase-mortgage business fell significantly, refi remained strong. (Includes two data charts.)
While the staggering $2.6 trillion of refinance originations in 2020 captured most of the industry's attention, the purchase-mortgage market also hit an annual record of $1.4 trillion. (Includes five data charts.)
A 4% monthly increase in Ginnie Mae refinance volume largely benefited the VA market, which accounted for 57% of Ginnie MBS issuance in January. (Includes two data charts.)
Industry-wide REIT MBS holdings expanded just 0.6% during the fourth quarter, a sharp slowdown from the growth rates in the prior two quarters. (Includes data chart.)
Banks reported substantial gains in their holdings of consumer ABS and deals backed by vehicle loans, along with steep drops in credit card and commercial securitizations. (Includes two data charts.)
The VA home loan program surged past the FHA in new business in 2020. Thanks to its rapid-refi option, the VA also took market share away from private MIs. (Includes three data charts.)