Changes Proposed To CAS And STACR Programs

O
Orrick

Contributor

Orrick logo
Orrick is a global law firm focused on serving the technology & innovation, energy & infrastructure and finance sectors. Founded over 150 years ago, Orrick has offices in 25+ markets worldwide. Financial Times selected Orrick as the Most Innovative Law Firm in North America for three years in a row.
The proposed changes to CAS and STACR will also require certain changes to the tax structure of Fannie and Freddie MBS issuances.
United States Finance and Banking

Authored by Howard S. Altarescu



On May 8, 2017, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac announced that they are considering certain changes to the structure of their CAS and STACR note programs in order to widen the investor base for the notes through which they transfer credit risk to the private sector. The proposed changes to CAS and STACR will also require certain changes to the tax structure of Fannie and Freddie MBS issuances. The intention is, despite the changes to the MBS tax structure, to preserve TBA eligibility of the MBS.

As proposed, a REMIC tax election will be made on mortgage loans purchased by Fannie and Freddie and put into their MBS. As a result, the MBS would, for tax purposes, represent ownership interests in REMIC regular interests rather than in mortgage loans. The CAS/STACR notes would also represent ownership of REMIC regular interests issued by new CAS/STACR trusts, which will make the CAS and STACR notes more attractive to REITs and foreign investors. The new structure would also eliminate Fannie and Freddie counterparty risk in the credit risk transfer programs.

Fact Sheets and FAQs are linked to the Press Releases. Press Release (Fannie). Press Release (Freddie).

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

Mondaq uses cookies on this website. By using our website you agree to our use of cookies as set out in our Privacy Policy.

Learn More