FirstFed to Boost Loan-Loss Provision

FirstFed Financial Corp., Santa Monica, Calif., has announced that it expects to make a $20-23 million provision for loan losses for the fourth quarter, more than quadrupling the $4.5 million provision recorded in the third quarter, as a result of rising single-family loan delinquencies. The company said single-family loans 30-90 days delinquent rose to approximately $237 million by Dec. 31, up from $72 million as of Sept. 30. "Adjustable-rate mortgages that have reached their maximum allowable negative amortization, which now require an increased payment, are a contributing factor in the higher level of delinquent loans," the company said.