As part of the Trump administration’s housing reform efforts, the government announced that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac – both pillars of the housing finance system – will keep $45 billion in capital that would otherwise be given to the government. Both institutions were bailed out with taxpayer funds during the 2008 financial crisis but have since repaid those loans.
Most real estate trade groups applauded the move with the National Association of Federally Insured Credit Unions noting that this decision is critical to ensuring the safety and soundness of the housing industry.