US Lenders Dip Their Toes in Crypto Mortgages

Pennsylvania-based lender Newrez announced plans to accept certain cryptocurrency holdings for mortgage, refinancing, and investment property loans starting in February, building on a June 2025 directive from the US Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to develop plans for recognizing crypto in loan applications. This move is partly motivated by the need to increase homeownership affordability for younger generations, as the average age of US homeowners has significantly increased. While the FHFA's guidance offers partial recognition, regulatory clarity remains weak, and lenders remain risk-averse. Acceptance is currently limited, often confined to Bitcoin in "private label" or "jumbo markets" not sold to government-sponsored enterprises. Lenders may also require a "haircut" on crypto valuations to mitigate volatility risks. The political dimension is notable, with the FHFA director citing President Trump's vision, though top Democrats have opposed the move, citing conflicts of interest and financial risks. Ultimately, the future of crypto mortgages depends on whether lenders find it makes sound business sense, as loans must eventually be sold into the dollar-based bond market.

(Source：Cointelegraph)