Overview

• Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told CNBC the government is considering a near-term sale of a small portion of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to establish a market valuation for the taxpayer-owned stakes.
• Lutnick emphasized keeping mortgage rates as low as possible and described the move as a limited demonstration of value rather than a large-scale divestiture.
• FHFA and Treasury held meetings this week to gather input on potential structures, with regulator Bill Pulte indicating any sale would involve only some shares and could be near term depending on the president’s decision.
• Industry groups including the Mortgage Bankers Association and the Independent Community Bankers of America reiterated opposition to a Fannie–Freddie merger, warning of reduced competition, weaker service, and greater systemic risk.
• Debate continues over whether the deal would be a traditional IPO or a secondary sale of existing shares, with some analysts favoring the latter and with prior signals from President Trump hinting at a combined listing concept.