Lenders and servicers alike are facing huge challenges due to the coronavirus, with many rising to the operational challenge. However, when it comes to MSR sales, the picture is bleak.

Digital mortgage closings are getting renewed attention with the industry forced into social distancing to contain the coronavirus. Remote online notarization can help, though it’s not allowed in all states yet.

Despite a modest gain in production volume, income from originations and secondary market fell from the third to the fourth quarter. But higher interest rates stabilized performance on the servicing side of the business. (Includes data chart.)