NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fitch Ratings has downgraded 197 distressed bonds in 148 U.S. RMBS transactions to 'Dsf'. The downgrades indicate that the bonds have incurred a principal write-down. Of the bonds downgraded to 'Dsf', 184 classes were previously rated 'Csf', and 13 classes were rated 'CCsf'. All ratings below 'CCCsf' indicate a default is likely.
As part of this review, the Recovery Estimates (REs) of the defaulted bonds were not revised. In addition, the review focused only on the bonds which defaulted and did not include any other bonds in the affected transactions.
Of the 197 classes affected by these downgrades, 104 are Prime, 39 are Alt-A, and 35 are Subprime. The remaining transaction types are other sectors. Approximately, 52% of the bonds have an RE of 50% - 100%, which indicates that the bonds will recover 50% - 100% of the current outstanding balance, while 20% have an RE of 0%.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
All of the affected classes had incurred a principal write-down and are expected to endure additional losses in the future.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
While the bonds that have defaulted are not expected to recover any material amount of lost principal, there is a limited possibility this may happen. In this unlikely scenario, Fitch would further review the affected class.
A spreadsheet detailing Fitch's rating actions can be found at 'www.fitchratings.com' by performing a title search for 'Fitch Downgrades 197 Distressed Bonds to 'Dsf' in 148 U.S. RMBS Transactions'. These actions were reviewed by a committee of Fitch analysts. The spreadsheet provides the contact information for the performance analyst.
The spreadsheet also details Fitch's assignment of REs to the transactions. The Recovery Estimate scale is based upon the expected relative recovery characteristics of an obligation. For structured finance, REs are designed to estimate recoveries on a forward-looking basis.
DUE DILIGENCE USAGE
No third party due diligence was provided or reviewed in relation to this rating action.
Additional information is available at www.fitchratings.com.
Fitch Downgrades 197 Distressed Bonds to 'Dsf' in 148 U.S. RMBS Transactions
https://www.fitchratings.com/creditdesk/reports/report_frame.cfm?rpt_id=869325
Applicable Criteria
Global Structured Finance Rating Criteria (pub. 06 Jul 2015)
https://www.fitchratings.com/creditdesk/reports/report_frame.cfm?rpt_id=867952
Additional Disclosures
Dodd-Frank Rating Information Disclosure Form
https://www.fitchratings.com/creditdesk/press_releases/content/ridf_frame.cfm?pr_id=988876
Solicitation Status
https://www.fitchratings.com/gws/en/disclosure/solicitation?pr_id=988876
Endorsement Policy
https://www.fitchratings.com/jsp/creditdesk/PolicyRegulation.faces?context=2&detail=31
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