Despite some concerns tied to fraud and performance, investors are optimistic that issuance volume will increase this year.

Saluda Grade has appointed a new co-chief investment officer to navigate its expansion into new investments in non-residential assets.

Ledn issues ABS backed by Bitcoin loans; fire at SFVegas prompts shift in exhibit hall; banks seek enhanced capital relief for CRTs; Fitch launches group for private ratings; Upstart sells auto loans to Bayview.

Recent cases involving subprime auto lender Tricolor and auto parts manufacturer First Brands prompted the initiative.

Moody’s advised consumer ABS issuers to implement backup servicers and strong custodial arrangements to mitigate risks.

The ABS is backed by 5,441 fixed-rate balloon loans tied to bitcoin holdings. The loans have an outstanding balance of $199.1 million. There are concerns about rising LTV ratios as the value of bitcoin drops.

The securitization backed by loans for fine art and collectible cars was originally planned for $600 million.

Uniti Group expanded its involvement in the ABS market with its first transaction backed by residential fiber network assets.

Car manufacturers accounted for about half of the record $165 billion of vehicle ABS issued last year. The share of nonprime loans to car buyers was up slightly from 2024. (Includes three data tables.)

Some 20 auto ABS have hit the market thus far in January, continuing momentum from a strong 2025. Meanwhile, the outlook for collateral performance is negative, though credit ratings are expected to hold.