Proposed $700 billion plan moves forward

Proposed $700 billion plan moves forward
A proposed rescue plan that was initially submitted by the U.S. Dept. of the Treasury last Friday and received numerous edits and additions throughout the week appears to have made significant progress today, with members of both parties announcing they have reached general agreement to move forward with a $700 billion federal rescue plan.

If the plan announced today is approved, it would allow the U.S. Dept. of the Treasury to purchase troubled residential and commercial mortgage-related assets, including mortgage-backed securities and loans – up to $700 billion, which would promote stability in the U.S. financial markets.

COMMENTARY:

.  Although the rescue plan is not yet finalized, lawmakers and the Treasury would appear to agree on provisions that would provide assistance to many homeowners facing foreclosure. Earlier this week, the National Association of REALTORS® announced the creation of a Presidential Advisory Group to address this critical issue. Five California REALTORS® (NAR) were appointed to the 20-person Presidential Advisory Group. Both C.A.R.’s and NAR’s Leadership Teams are in close contact with elected officials and other key leaders in Washington to ensure that interests of the real estate industry are represented.
^.  One of Congress’ primary goals as this proposal moves forward is to minimize the financial impact of this rescue on the U.S. taxpayers. The current proposal would allow the Treasury not only to sell the acquired mortgage assets at a later date, but also to acquire an equity stake in the companies that participate in the program. The stocks could be sold at a later date, which could enable Congress to recoup some – if not all – of the $700 billion.

(source: CAR)