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.

Forbearance on non-agency mortgages is on the rise, presenting liquidity risk for servicers. Federal agencies have yet to offer a helping hand.

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.)

Underwriting standards are tighter and there are fewer lenders in the market, but jumbo mortgages are still being originated.

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 resumption of non-agency MBS deals backed by newly originated loans came from an unexpected source: a reverse mortgage lender.

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.

The two-year loans carry a 100% guarantee from the Small Business Administration and are fully forgivable when used by employers to keep workers on payroll.