TransUnion knocks plan to let lenders use 2 credit reports

The plan to move to a bi-merge process allowing lenders to use two, instead of three, credit reports was announced last October by Fannie and Freddie’s federal regulator. Continue reading

Oldest US community bank to pay $9M to settle redlining allegations

Washington Trust “vehemently” denies the allegations but joins a long list of lenders who have coughed up $98 million in settlements since the DoJ launched an anti-redlining initiative in 2021. Continue reading

Fannie, Freddie may get green light to buy more shared equity loans

Between 2018 and 2020, Fannie and Freddie purchased close to 600 shared equity loans, before realizing that current regulations might prohibit them from doing so. Continue reading

Newzip signs third mortgage lender to its agent-matching service

State Employees Credit Union of Maryland is the third lender to sign with Newzip, which helps lenders court homebuyers by offering them discounts when they agree to work with preferred real estate agents. Continue reading

Antitrust regulators sign off on ICE’s deal to acquire Black Knight

In addition to selling Empower and Optimal Blue, the FTC consent order would require ICE and Black Knight to seek prior approval before acquiring an interest in another loan origination system. Continue reading

Credit repair companies settle ‘hot swapping’ allegations for $2.7B

Lexington Law and CreditRepair.com parent Progrexion filed for bankruptcy protection in June after the court ruled collection of upfront fees violated the Telemarketing Sales Rule. Continue reading

Freedom Mortgage to pay $1.75M to settle agent kickback scheme

Regulators claim lenders’ marketing agreements with more than 40 real estate brokerages, including Realty Connect USA, were a conduit for kickbacks that generated more than 1,000 mortgage referrals. Continue reading

Rating agencies issue more cautions about banking industry

It’s not just regional banks but larger lenders, such as JPMorgan and Bank of America facing uncertainty if interest rates stay higher for longer, analysts said. Continue reading

Mortgage assistance for Hawaii fire victims includes forbearance help

Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the Federal Housing Administration outlined relief for homeowners as FEMA and the state of Hawaii rushed to provide emergency housing for displaced residents. Continue reading

ICE’s Black Knight acquisition nears resolution of antitrust issues

“Significant progress” in Federal Trade Commission negotiations have been reported since Black Knight’s Empower loan origination system and Optimal Blue division were cut from the deal. Continue reading