Overall FHLBank borrowing was down 4.8% from the third quarter, but most of that decline was concentrated among the largest members. Year over year, though, outstanding advances fell 16.8%. (Includes two data tables.)
The industry’s most profitable mortgage-banking business during the fourth quarter was operated by Truist Bank. Meanwhile, TD Bank reported a huge $911.2 million loss related to the sale of mortgage loans. (Includes data table.)
While banks’ servicing-for-others balance declined in the fourth quarter of 2024, the industry put a higher valuation on the asset. Top-ranked JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo continued to reduce their portfolios. (Includes data table.)
Bank holdings of non-mortgage ABS slumped to $82 billion at the end of 2024, the lowest level in 17 years. One bright spot was bank investment in ABS backed by unsecured consumer loans. (Includes two data tables.)
The conventional-conforming share of first-lien originations declined from 59.2% in 2023 to 56.5% in 2024. Both government-insured products and nonconforming loans gained share. (Includes two data tables.)
While first-lien mortgage holdings at banks grew only slightly during the fourth quarter, the mix included more adjustable-rate mortgages than in recent quarters. (Includes data table.)
Refinance mortgages, especially streamlined refis, came roaring back, lifting 2024 VA lending volume by a sharp 28.5%. FHA volume is estimated to have risen 14.3%. (Includes two data tables.)
While the fair value of bank MBS declined in the fourth quarter, the industry reported a slight gain on an amortized-cost basis. Bank of America led the ranking of bank MBS investors, though its portfolio fell $27 billion. (Includes two data tables.)
The VA, FHA and even private MIs posted big gains in writing insurance for refinance loans in the fourth quarter while purchase-mortgage business saw a seasonal decline. (Includes four data tables.)
The creation of a U.S. sovereign wealth fund could grease the skids for an end to the conservatorships of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
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