President Trump said again Tuesday he's working to take mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac public, winding down 17 years of federal control over two central parts of the U.S. housing market — a move that was cheered on by Trump ally and noted Wall Street investor Bill Ackman. Ending the conservatorship of Fannie and Freddie — which guarantee trillions of dollars worth of mortgages — would be complicated, and critics say it's risky. A plan to do so in Mr. Trump's first term did not come to pass.
Main Idea: President Donald Trump is pushing to end government control of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and take the mortgage firms public again, but the plan faces major risks and criticism.
Key Points:
If Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac lose their federal backstop, mortgage rates could rise and make home loans more expensive for households.
Taking Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac public could bring a windfall to taxpayers if the government sells its stakes and the market stays stable.
Rate how each entity in this article affected the American people.
One of the two central enterprises in the story; the article focuses on its conservatorship and possible privatization.
One of the two central enterprises in the story; the article focuses on its conservatorship and possible privatization.
Central actor; the article is about his push to take Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac public and his.
The agency overseeing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and part of the article’s discussion of any release from.
Ackman’s hedge fund is a major investor in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and is discussed as an.
Named political opponent of the plan who gives a central skeptical response.
Cited as a major holder of Fannie and Freddie shares, making it a relevant supporting market actor.
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Sign in to commentReferenced for its 2008 bailout and takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, providing important historical context.
Named only in connection with Paulson & Co. and past investment in the firms.