Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue increased by 25% year-over-year in Q4 and 6% sequentially, despite typically being a weaker quarter for originations [19] - Adjusted return on equity (ROE) was 7% for the quarter and 17% when adjusted for governmental impacts [19] - Book value per share increased by more than $11 quarter-over-quarter and $17 year-over-year due to ongoing profitable operations and a $120 million release of the valuation allowance [19][27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The origination segment saw significant year-over-year and sequential growth in adjusted pre-tax income, driven by record levels of origination volume in both Consumer Direct and B2B channels [20] - Consumer Direct volume increased sharply, reflecting strong recapture performance and improved revenue per loan [21] - Servicing was profitable but impacted by higher than expected MSR runoff expenses, primarily due to government actions and higher delinquencies [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The owned MSR portfolio increased by 15% year-over-year, while total industry servicing growth was only 2% [12] - The servicing UPB at the end of 2025 was up 9% over the prior year, with $49 billion in servicing additions net of runoff [12] - The subservicing additions in the second half of 2025 were $33 billion, over 2.5 times the first half level, indicating strong market interest [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company executed a strategic partnership with Finance of America Reverse to simplify its participation in the reverse mortgage market, aiming for future earnings growth [5] - The focus for 2026 includes executing a proven strategy, simplifying operations, and investing in technology to drive profitable growth [17] - The company is targeting an adjusted ROE range of 13%-15% for 2026, reflecting a commitment to maximizing shareholder value [21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The macro environment is viewed as largely favorable for housing and housing finance, with projected 15% year-over-year growth in total industry origination volume [15] - Potential headwinds include the impact of FHA modification rule changes and increased competition in subservicing [16] - Management remains optimistic about the business potential, emphasizing a balanced business model that can perform well in varying interest rate environments [32] Other Important Information - The company has a liquidity position of $205 million at year-end 2025, with plans for a $10 million share buyback program [28][29] - The release of the valuation allowance is seen as a significant indicator of recent profitability improvements and strategic execution [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of FHA on MSR - Management noted a $14 million impact in Q4 due to FHA changes and expects stabilization by Q2 2026, but quantifying future impacts is challenging [36][38] Question: Government Shutdown Impact on Originations - Management indicated that the government shutdown did not materially impact refinance performance, with a record-setting quarter for refinances [39] Question: Subservicing Business and Interest Rates - Management stated that subservicing opportunities are not solely dependent on interest rates, with recent market disruptions creating growth potential [46][48] Question: Capital Availability from Rithm Portfolio Transfer - The transfer of the Rithm portfolio will not free up capital, but the sale of the reverse mortgage business is expected to release approximately $100 million [50]