Servicing for others by banks declined by 0.6% during the fourth quarter of 2025. Meanwhile, the fair value of MSRs classified as serviced for others increased. (Includes data table.)
The Federal Reserve will soon issue proposals revising capital requirements set under the Basel framework in a way that could increase bank involvement in mortgage originations and servicing.
The Community Home Lenders of America reiterated its support for program revisions at Ginnie Mae to ease liquidity challenges faced by small and mid-sized nonbanks.
Setting aside Rocket Mortgage’s acquisition of Mr. Cooper Group, bulk MSR sales increased during the fourth quarter, including $58.25 billion of acquisitions by CrossCountry Mortgage. (Includes three data tables.)
Pennymac asked the Financial Accounting Standards Board to clarify accounting practices involving mortgage servicing rights and recapture assumptions. The effort has support from some major MSR buyers who are looking for a level playing field.
Low volatility and actions by the Federal Reserve are expected to help maintain demand for MSRs. Supply will also be constrained, with lenders generating profits and large firms retaining their MSRs.
High MSR prices are prompting some potential buyers to sit out. Prices are being propped up by limited supply and declining servicing costs as big firms invest in technology.