Senate Democrats Seek Clarity on FHFA’s Proposal to Include Bitcoin in Mortgage Risk Assessments

Key Points

1. Senate Democrats warn that allowing crypto assets in mortgage approvals without conversion to U.S. dollars could increase defaults and destabilize the housing market.

2. Concerns are raised about FHFA Director William Pulte's personal crypto holdings (up to $2 million) and his role in approving the proposal, which may present conflicts of interest.

3. The senators demand detailed explanations from the FHFA on risk assessment, proposal development, and stakeholder feedback processes.

4. The proposal requires approval by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, whose boards are chaired by Pulte, raising governance and impartiality questions.

5. Crypto's price volatility and liquidity risks could leave homeowners financially vulnerable if included in mortgage considerations.