GSEs Privatization
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Walker & Dunlop CEO says investors need clarity on who decides the fate of Fannie and Freddie
CNBCยท 2025-09-16 12:05
Core Insights - The Zelman Housing Summit has evolved from a focus on residential housing to include multifamily, GSEs, labor, and land issues [3] - Interest rates were a major topic, with the 10-year yield dropping unexpectedly, leading to discussions about future rate cuts and their limited impact on long-term rates [4][5][6] - The future of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac is uncertain, with concerns about their management and potential privatization [7][8][9] - A land crisis is identified as a significant issue for builders, with calls for more land entitlements and easing of zoning restrictions [11][12] - Labor shortages are a pressing concern, exacerbated by fears of ICE raids, highlighting the need for a healthy immigration policy [13][14][15] Interest Rates - The 10-year yield dropped to 4.01%, surprising industry experts [5] - Historical analysis indicates that rate cuts during recessions lower long-term yields, but cuts outside of recessions have little effect [5][6] - Expectations for at least two 25 basis point cuts in the near future, but limited impact on long-term rates anticipated [6] Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac - The future of GSEs is critical for builders, with uncertainty surrounding potential actions from the Trump administration [7] - Fannie and Freddie provided liquidity during periods when banks were less active in lending [7] - Concerns about management and governance of Fannie and Freddie, with comparisons to WeWork's governance issues [8][9] Land Issues - A statement from industry leaders indicates a land crisis rather than a housing crisis, emphasizing the need for more land entitlements [11] - Suggestions for the Trump administration to facilitate land access and ease zoning restrictions [11][12] Labor Challenges - Labor shortages are a significant barrier to construction, with smaller builders particularly affected by fears of ICE raids [13] - Public builders report overall labor shortages, despite not facing major issues with ICE raids [14] - Advocacy for a healthy immigration policy to support labor needs in the construction industry [15]