PMI

MGIC Investment Corp. posted better-than-expected first-quarter earnings as expenses were lower than projected while net premiums came in higher.

The residential mortgages being reinsured are less risky, by several measures, than its previous deal; none of the borrowers have ever missed a payment.

B. Riley FBR initiated equity coverage on Fannie Mae as the chances for privatization of the government-sponsored enterprises improved in a housing finance reform package.

This time, investors required Radian to hold on to the first 2.5% of losses it covers on the pool; by comparison, the insurer’s previous deal, Eagle Re 2018-1, had a lower “attachment” point of 2.25%.

Arch Capital Group named Michael Schmeiser president and CEO of its U.S. mortgage insurance business as the former head moved up the corporate ladder.

Arch Capital’s next offering of credit risk transfer notes features heavy exposure to residential mortgages that have been modified by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

Rises in the amount of low down payment loans and private mortgage insurance due to tight affordability led to the most first-time homebuyers since 2006, according to Genworth Mortgage Insurance.

Credit risk transfer does more than just reduce exposure to a downturn in the housing market. It also provides them with information about how others view mortgage credit risk.

The six private mortgage insurers had a great year as they continued to grab market share from the Federal Housing Administration. Despite some headwinds, 2019 is shaping up to be another good year.

Mortgage insurer Radian Group was in takeover talks with an investor group earlier this month including Apollo Global Management and Centerbridge Partners, before discussions stalled over the terms of a potential deal.