The 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Should Disappear

Forbes, Apr. 26, 2016–Pinto, Edward
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage should be retired–for good. Despite continued proof that it fails to build up wealth for the most disadvantaged Americans and that mortgage debt should not be a burden as homeowners approach their 50s and 60s, misguided advocates maintain that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage should be at the core of the U.S. housing finance system.

Mortgage REITs are Enjoying a Renaissance

MarketWatch, Apr. 26, 2016–Riquier, Andrea
As the housing market recovers, investors are taking another look at some of the investments derived from bets on mortgage credit. Real estate investment trusts that buy mortgage-backed securities and other income-producers may be ready for their moment.

More Homebuyers Turning to Social Media: TD Bank

National Mortgage News, Apr. 26, 2016–Passy, Jacob
More homebuyers are using social media to find out information about mortgage products and services, TD Bank reported.

Flagstar’s 1Q Profit Grows Despite Decline in Originations

National Mortgage News, Apr. 26, 2016–Passy, Jacob
Flagstar Bancorp in Troy, Mich., reported an increase in net income during the first quarter, mainly on higher interest income and a larger release of loan losses.

U.S. Economy Seen Growing 0.4 Percent in First Quarter: Atlanta Fed

Reuters, Apr. 26, 2016–Leong, Richard
The U.S. economy is growing at a 0.4 percent pace in the first quarter following the latest data on home resales and durable goods orders, the Atlanta Federal Reserve’s GDPNow forecast model showed on Tuesday.

What Fintech Gets Wrong About Mortgage

National Mortgage News, Apr. 26, 2016–Tymeson, Tana
When will fintech infiltrate the mortgage industry the way it has other financial services? It already has and is creating a problem, warned Andy Pollock, senior managing director of the consulting arm of Clayton Holdings.

5 Things to Watch at the Fed Meeting

Wall Street Journal, Apr. 26, 2016–Harrison, David
Federal Reserve officials are virtually certain to hold interest rates steady when their meeting ends Wednesday but they could try to send a message to markets and outside observers about what likely comes next.

The Fed Still Planning Interest Rate Hikes–But When?

Marketplace, Apr, 25, 2016–Hartman, Mitchell 
Most economists predict that the Federal Reserve will hold off on raising interest rates at its meeting this week. But the Fed is expected to act soon–either between the upcoming meetings or at the meeting on June 14-15.