Speculation continues to mount regarding whether Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will be allowed to retain more capital. But will such a move be a precursor to a "recap and release" plan?

The changed, partisan confirmation process for the new FHFA director has decreased the chances for Congressional action on housing-finance reform.

The sharp downturn in purchase-money loans going into Fannie and Freddie MBS was accompanied by an even bigger drop in deliveries of loans with private mortgage insurance.