Bill Ackman Warns Trump Against 'Rushing' Fannie-Freddie IPOs, Floats Plan For $400 Billion Valuation - Federal Home Loan (OTC:FMCC), Federal National Mortgage (OTC:FNMA)

Core Viewpoint - Billionaire investor Bill Ackman advises against rushing the IPOs of mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, suggesting a more measured approach to maximize taxpayer value [1][2]. Group 1: IPO Strategy - Ackman proposes a three-step reform plan to secure "hundreds of billions of dollars in value" for taxpayers, emphasizing that rushing to IPO is a mistake and that the companies are worth significantly more [2]. - The proposed steps include the Treasury acknowledging past payments, exercising warrants for 79.9% common stock ownership, and relisting both companies on the New York Stock Exchange [2][3]. - Ackman believes this strategy could lead to a potential market cap of $400 billion for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac [3]. Group 2: Market Preparation - Ackman stresses the importance of careful preparation before an IPO, criticizing the previous administration's "net worth sweep" as detrimental to the companies' capital rebuilding efforts [3][4]. - He highlights the need to reset capital levels and establish the right management teams before proceeding with an IPO [4]. Group 3: Mortgage Market Protection - Ackman's plan aims to prevent widening mortgage spreads that could result from a rushed IPO, advocating for keeping the entities in conservatorship while listing them on the NYSE [4]. - This approach is presented as a way to balance the risks and benefits, offering potential for narrowing spreads while avoiding disruption in the mortgage market [4]. Group 4: Economic Outlook - Beyond the specific case of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, Ackman expresses optimism for the U.S. economy, citing factors such as massive AI investment, deregulation, and tax reforms as positive influences [6]. - He advocates for initiatives like universal 401(k) plans to ensure broader participation in capitalism and address wealth disparity issues [6].