Ellington Financial (EFC) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 08, 2025 11:00 AM ET Company Participants Alaael-Deen Shilleh - Associate General Counsel & SecretaryLaurence Penn - CEO, President & DirectorJR Herlihy - Chief Financial OfficerMark Tecotzky - Co-Chief Investment OfficerCrispin Love - DirectorTrevor Cranston - Managing DirectorRandy Binner - Managing DirectorFrancesco Labetti - Equity Research Associate Operator Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, thank you for standing by. Welcome to the Ellington Financ ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP net income of $0.35 per share and adjusted distributable earnings (ADE) of $0.39 per share, which continue to cover dividends [5][13] - The recourse debt to equity ratio decreased to 1.7:1 from 1.8:1 quarter over quarter, indicating improved leverage management [10][18] - Book value per common share stood at $13.44, with a total economic return for the first quarter of 9.5% annualized [19] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The adjusted long credit portfolio decreased by 4% to $3.3 billion due to securitizations and a smaller residential transitional loan portfolio [17] - The Longbridge portfolio increased by 31% sequentially to $549 million, driven by proprietary reverse mortgage loan originations [17] - The agency RMBS portfolio declined by 14% to $256 million as the company rotated capital into higher yielding opportunities [18] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The weighted average borrowing rate on recourse borrowings decreased by 12 basis points to 6.09% [18] - The net interest margin (NIM) on the credit portfolio decreased by 12 basis points, while the NIM on agency increased by 24 basis points [18] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on establishing joint ventures to secure consistent access to high-quality loans at attractive pricing [10] - The company is tightening underwriting guidelines to focus on higher FICO borrowers and loans with more extensive underwriting [23] - The company is actively developing proprietary tools to support loan origination and enhance operational efficiency [29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's positioning to take advantage of heightened market volatility and recharged opportunity sets [30][34] - The company anticipates ongoing meaningful contributions to ADE from its mortgage servicing rights (MSR) portfolio [21] - Management noted that the current high levels of volatility are creating compelling trading opportunities [30] Other Important Information - The company completed five new securitization deals in the first quarter, taking advantage of tight spreads [7] - The company sold a variety of credit-sensitive securities to lock in gains and enhance liquidity [9] - The company expects to resolve remaining significant workout assets by the end of the second quarter [10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Have you been able to deploy a material amount of capital in attractive trading opportunities? - Management indicated that while there was not material growth in April, the portfolio has grown net relative to March 31, with growth in non-QM and non-agency MBS [38][39] Question: Can you provide more detail on the resolutions of commercial bridge loans? - Management clarified that one was a discounted payoff and another was an REO sale, freeing up $20 million to $25 million for reinvestment [44][46] Question: Does the high level of spread volatility impact your near-term appetite for loan acquisitions? - Management noted that they have been diligent about hedging spread widening risk and have found opportunities to buy loans as spreads tightened [56][58] Question: Can you share timing and size on potential joint ventures with originators? - Management stated that the investments would be under $5 million in total and are expected to close in the next quarter or two [69][74] Question: Is the $0.9 earnings run rate for the Longbridge segment still achievable? - Management confirmed that the $0.9 run rate is still achievable, with seasonal trends affecting volumes [86][89] Question: Can you discuss current performance and dynamics in the CLO market? - Management indicated that CLOs represent a small part of the portfolio and recent negative performance was due to spread widening rather than underlying credit issues [91][92]

Earnings Conference Call May 8, 2025 Forward-Looking Statements This presentation contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ from our beliefs, expectations, estimates, and projections and, consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Forward-looking statem ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported funded volume of $561 million in Q1 2025, exceeding guidance and marking a 32% increase from Q1 2024 [5][15] - GAAP net income for Q1 2025 was $80 million, or $3.17 per share, compared to a net loss of $16 million, or $0.58 per share in Q1 2024 [6][16] - Adjusted net income improved to $13 million, or $0.52 per share, a $20 million improvement year-over-year [7][17] - Adjusted EBITDA totaled $29 million, representing a significant increase from breakeven in Q1 2024 [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The wholesale channel exceeded volume expectations, contributing to overall guidance being surpassed, although it carries lower margins [18] - The company saw a 40% increase in initial thirty-day sales conversion rates and a 12% reduction in cost per opportunity [12][19] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company benefited from a lower rate environment, with the ten-year treasury falling approximately 35 basis points [6] - April 2025 was noted as the best month for submission and funded volume in the last two years, indicating strong market performance [26] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company launched the "A Better Way with FOA" campaign to reposition reverse mortgages as a mainstream financial planning tool for homeowners aged 55 and up [8][10] - The strategic focus is on enhancing customer engagement and optimizing the customer journey, with a goal of improving lead conversion metrics [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to execute its strategy, highlighting the increasing awareness among older homeowners regarding home equity [22] - The company reaffirmed its full-year guidance for funded volume between $2.4 billion and $2.7 billion and adjusted EPS between $2.6 and $3 [20] Other Important Information - The company has seen a 25% year-over-year reduction in general and administrative expenses, with a notable 35% decrease in communication and data processing expenses [19] - The leadership change with John Scarpatti being promoted to Chief Production Officer is expected to unlock growth potential [13] Q&A Session Summary Question: How did rate volatility in April impact volumes? - Management noted that April was the best month for submission and funded volume in the last two years, indicating strong performance despite rate volatility [26][27] Question: What is the outlook for expenses going forward? - Management indicated that the fixed cost base is relatively stable, with opportunities for cost reductions as contracts renew, while variable expenses may increase with production [28][29]

Finance Of America Companies (FOA) Q1 2025 Earnings Call May 06, 2025 05:00 PM ET Speaker0 Thank you for standing by. My name is Celine, and I will be your conference operator today. At this time, I would like to welcome everyone to the Finance of America First Quarter twenty twenty five Earnings Call. All lines have been placed on mute to prevent any background noise. After the speaker remarks, there will be a question and answer session. Thank you. I would now like to turn the call over to Michael Font, S ...

© 2025 Finance of America Companies 2 3 "A Better Way with FOA" Launch Campaign Our goal is to bring home equity for retirement mainstream. By placing our offering among other home equity solutions, reverse mortgages will join the product consideration set alongside more common financing options. We believe that by elevating our brand and offering a customer-centric experience that builds confidence, we will break the adoption barrier and dramatically increase the number of customers we serve. 3 4 1Moderniz ...

Company Overview - Onity Group Inc. is a leading non-bank financial services company providing mortgage servicing and originations solutions through its primary brands, PHH Mortgage and Liberty Reverse Mortgage [3] - PHH Mortgage is one of the largest servicers in the country, focused on delivering a variety of servicing and lending programs to consumers and business clients [3] - Liberty is one of the nation's largest reverse mortgage lenders dedicated to providing loans that help customers meet their personal and financial needs [3] - The company is headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, with operations in the United States, the U.S. Virgin Islands, India, and the Philippines, and has been serving customers since 1988 [3] Upcoming Conferences - Executive management will participate in two upcoming conferences in May 2025, including the BTIG 5 Annual Housing Ecosystem Conference on May 7, 2025 [1] - The KBW Real Estate Finance & Technology Conference is scheduled for May 20, 2025, and will be held virtually [2] - An investor presentation will be made available on the Events & Presentations section of the company's shareholder relations page prior to the meetings on May 7 and May 20, 2025 [2]

Onity Group (ONIT) Q1 2025 Earnings Call April 30, 2025 08:30 AM ET Company Participants Valerie Haertel - Vice President of Investor RelationsGlen Messina - CEO, President & Chair of the BoardSean O'Neil - Executive VP & CFORandy Binner - Managing DirectorBose George - Managing DirectorEric Hagen - Managing Director Operator Good day, everyone, and welcome to the Onity Group's First Quarter Earnings and Business Update Conference Call. At this time, all participants are in a listen only mode. Later, will h ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported adjusted pretax income of $25 million for Q1 2025, up from $15 million in the prior year quarter, resulting in an adjusted ROE of 22%, exceeding guidance of 16% to 18% [7][26] - GAAP net income attributable to common shareholders was $21 million, or $2.5 per share fully diluted, reflecting an annualized return on equity of 19% [8] - Book value per share increased by approximately 4% year over year and 2% compared to year-end 2024 [9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The origination and servicing segments both operated profitably, with adjusted pretax income for origination and servicing at $48 million, driven by servicing performance [14] - Total servicing UPB increased by $13 billion year over year, with owned MSR additions more than doubling compared to Q1 2024 [20] - The servicing segment's fee generation grew by 6% year over year, while reverse servicing was lower compared to the prior year due to strong asset gains in Q1 2024 [28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Mortgage Bankers Association and Fannie Mae estimate industry origination volumes to increase by 17% year over year, contingent on a 9% increase in home purchase volume and a 39% increase in refinancing volume [10] - The company noted that the probability of a recession has increased, although mortgage delinquencies have not yet deteriorated [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to accelerate growth in originations volume and total servicing UPB as part of its 2025 operating priority [7] - The balanced business model is designed to perform well in both high and low interest rate environments, with a focus on maintaining a resilient servicing platform [12] - The company is targeting new product launches to expand market opportunities and access higher margin segments [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about navigating the dynamic market environment and delivering long-term value for shareholders [37] - The company is maintaining its full-year guidance, expecting continued interest rate volatility and M&A activity in the industry [12][10] - Management highlighted the importance of special servicing skills in minimizing exposure to advances during a recession [18] Other Important Information - The company reached a settlement in principle for a nearly two-decade-old class action litigation matter, allowing it to move forward [52] - The majority of the company's deferred tax assets are not limited by a timeframe, providing flexibility for future utilization [51] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about the valuation allowance and its impact - Management discussed the potential to lift the valuation allowance, which could positively impact net income and book value [41][42] Question: Timing for utilizing deferred tax assets - Management confirmed that the majority of deferred tax assets are indefinite and not limited by a timeframe [51] Question: Legal expenses and regulatory matters - Management addressed a legal expense related to a settlement of a long-standing litigation and confirmed compliance with regulatory matters [52][54] Question: Impact of Rocket Coupe merger on subservicing market - Management noted mixed reactions from clients regarding the merger, with some exploring alternatives while others align with Rocket [57] Question: Advantages of being a flow buyer versus a bulk buyer - Management highlighted the flexibility of targeting different markets based on economic conditions, which provides a competitive advantage [60][62]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted pretax income for Q1 2025 was $25 million, with an annualized adjusted ROE of 22%, exceeding guidance [6][24] - GAAP net income attributable to common shareholders was $21 million, or $2.5 per share fully diluted, reflecting an annualized return on equity of 19% [7] - Average servicing UPB for the quarter was $5 billion, up $13 billion compared to Q1 2024 [7] - Book value per share increased approximately 4% year-over-year and 2% compared to year-end 2024 [7] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The origination and servicing segments both reported profitability, with adjusted pretax income of $48 million for Q1 2025 [12] - Servicing segment adjusted pretax income grew due to increased fee generation, up 6% year-over-year [26] - Originations volume grew by 50% year-over-year, with the high-margin consumer direct channel growing by about 165% [28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Industry origination volumes are expected to increase by 17% year-over-year, driven by a 9% increase in home purchase volume and a 39% increase in refinancing volume [8] - The company noted that the probability of a recession has increased, but mortgage delinquencies have not yet deteriorated [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to accelerate growth in originations volume and total servicing UPB as part of its 2025 operating priority [6] - The balanced business model is designed to perform well in both high and low interest rate environments [11] - The company is focused on product development, with new product launches expected to expand market opportunities [20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating a dynamic and unpredictable year, maintaining full-year guidance despite market volatility [10] - The company believes its servicing portfolio mix and special servicing skills will help minimize delinquencies in a recession [10] - Management highlighted the importance of maintaining flexibility to evaluate options for creating shareholder value [11] Other Important Information - The company reached a settlement on a nearly two-decade-old class action litigation matter, allowing it to move forward [50] - The valuation allowance on U.S. deferred tax assets could potentially increase book value by approximately $22 per share if lifted [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Inquiry about the valuation allowance and its implications - Management confirmed that lifting the valuation allowance would directly impact net income and book value, with ongoing analysis to determine the extent of the allowance [40][42] Question: Timing for utilizing deferred tax assets - The majority of the deferred tax assets are indefinite and not limited by a timeframe, allowing for flexibility in utilization [49] Question: Legal expenses and regulatory matters - Management discussed a settlement of a legacy class action lawsuit and noted ongoing compliance with legal matters in the mortgage industry [50][52] Question: Impact of Rocket Coupe merger on the subservicing market - Management indicated that the merger could lead to clients exploring alternatives, creating opportunities for growth in the subservicing business [56][58] Question: Advantages of being a flow buyer versus a bulk buyer - The company highlighted its flexibility in sourcing MSRs through various channels, allowing it to maximize returns based on market conditions [60] Question: Operating efficiency objectives - Management stated that while there is no specific target for operating efficiency, the goal is to continue increasing pretax income across segments [62]