FHFA gives guidance on FHLB investments

Federal Issues FHFA GSE Fannie Mae Freddie Mac Ginnie Mae Risk Management Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities

On August 16, FHFA issued Advisory Bulletin AB 2021-02, which provides guidance regarding federal home loan banks’ investments in Agency Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (CMBS) that are issued and guaranteed by either the U.S. government (Ginnie Mae), or by government-sponsored entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The Bulletin recommends risk management practices, such as establishing certain limits to address the risks associated with unexpected prepayments of CMBS investments. FHFA also “encourages early adherence” to the guidance, but states that “by December 31, 2021, all Banks should have appropriate Agency CMBS concentration risk limits in place.” Guidance in the Bulletin includes, among other things: (i) pre-purchase analytics; (ii) the minimum risk-adjusted spread requirement; (iii) concentration limits; (iv) reporting; and (v) prepayment projections.