Credit risk transfers

The transaction, Bellemeade Re 2017-2, appears to be similar to programs that Fannie and Freddie use to offload the risk of losses on residential mortgages they insure to capital markets investors.

Credit risk transfers have emerged as more than just a method for mitigating taxpayer exposure. They could be a key component of comprehensive housing finance reform.

The government-sponsored enterprise is still looking for the right balance between offering a product that's attractive to investors and a cost-effective way to reduce risk.