Bank and thrift portfolio holdings of first liens increased in the fourth quarter of 2011 compared with the previous quarter, according to the Inside Mortgage Finance Bank Mortgage Database. Loan modifications completed by the major bank and thrift servicers during that period also decreased significantly, as portfolio performance has improved. Banks and thrifts held $1.76 trillion in first liens at the end of 2011, up 1.9 percent from the third quarter of 2011. The increase in holdings suggests strong portfolio originations as some banks are allowing their mortgage portfolios to run-off and others are selling delinquent mortgages. At the same time, loan modifications offered by the major banks and thrifts declined by ... [Includes one data chart]