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T R O U B L E D C O M P A N Y R E P O R T E R
Sunday, January 25, 2026, Vol. 30, No. 25
Headlines
ACCELERATED LLC 2021-H: Fitch Affirms BBsf Rating on Class D Notes
ACRES COMMERCIAL 2026-FL4: Fitch Gives B(EXP) to Class G Debt
APEX CREDIT CLO 13: Fitch GIves BB-(EXP) Rating on Class E Notes
BAIN CAPITAL 2025-5: Fitch Gives BB-(EXP) Rating to Class E Debt
BAIN CAPITAL 2025-5: Fitch Gives BB-sf Rating to Class E Debt
BARINGS INFRASTRUCTURE 2025-I: Moody's Rates Cl. E Notes '(P)Ba3'
BBCMS MORTGAGE 2026-5C40: Fitch Gives B(EXP) Rating on F-RR Certs
BHG SECURITIZATION 2024-1CON: Fitch Affirms BB Rating on E Notes
BMO 2023-C5: Fitch Affirms 'B-sf' Rating on 2 Tranches
BRAVO RESIDENTIAL 2026-NQM1: Fitch Gives B(EXP) Rating on B-2 Debt
CATAMARAN CLO 2014-1: Moody's Cuts $38.5MM D-R Notes Rating to B2
CFCRE 2016-C6: Fitch Cuts Rating on Class D Certs to CCCsf
EFMT 2026-CES1: Fitch Rates Class B2 Certs 'Bsf'
FIRST FRANKLIN 2006-FF14: Moody's Ups Rating on A1 Certs to Caa1
FIRST FRANKLIN 2006-FF17: Moody's Ups Rating on 2 Tranches to Caa1
GREAT LAKES 2014-1: Moody's Ups Rating on $10.5MM F-R Notes to Ba1
GS MORTGAGE 2026-PJ1: Fitch Gives B(EXP) Rating to Class B5 Notes
GS MORTGAGE-BACKED 2026-NQM1: S&P Assigns (P)B Rating on B-2 Certs
MADISON PARK LXI: Fitch Rates Class E-R Debt 'BBsf'
MAN GLG 2018-1: Moody's Cuts Rating on $25MM Class D-R Notes to B1
NATIONAL COLLEGIATE 2007-A: Fitch Hikes Rating on C Notes to BBsf
NEW RESIDENTIAL 2026-NQM1: Fitch Rates Class B1 Notes 'BB-(EXP)'
OCEAN TRAILS CLO XV: Fitch Rates Class E-R Debt 'BBsf'
OCEAN TRAILS XV: Moody's Assigns B3 Rating to $500,000 F-R Notes
OZLM LTD VI: Moody's Affirms Ba3 Rating on $33MM Class D-S Notes
PMT LOAN 2026-INV1: Moody's Assigns B3 Rating on Cl. B-5 Certs
RCKT MORTGAGE 2026-CES1: Fitch Gives B(EXP) Rating to 4 Classes
SILVER POINT 15: Moody's Assigns (P)B3 Rating to $250,000 F Notes
VERDELITE STATIC 2024-1: Fitch Affirms BB+ Rating on Class E Notes
VERUS SECURITIZATION 2026-1: Fitch Rates Class B-2 Notes 'B-sf'
WESTLAKE AUTOMOBILE 2026-1: S&P Assigns BB (sf) Rating on E Notes
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ACCELERATED LLC 2021-H: Fitch Affirms BBsf Rating on Class D Notes
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Fitch Ratings has affirmed the outstanding notes of Accelerated
2021-1H LLC (AALLC 2021-1H). The Rating Outlook is Stable for all
classes of notes.
RATING ACTIONS
Entity/Debt Rating Prior
----------- ------ -----
Accelerated 2021-1H LLC
A 00439KAA4 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
B 00439KAB2 LT Asf Affirmed Asf
C 00439KAC0 LT BBBsf Affirmed BBBsf
D 00439KAD8 LT BBsf Affirmed BBsf
KEY RATING DRIVERS
The affirmation of the notes reflects default coverage levels
consistent with their current ratings. The Stable Outlook for all
classes of notes reflects Fitch's expectation that default coverage
levels will remain supportive of these ratings.
As of November 2025, the 60+ day delinquency rate was 3.09% (2.80%
in November 2024). Cumulative gross defaults (CGDs) were 27.33%
(23.64% in November 2024) and cumulative net losses were at 23.61%
(20.29% in November 2024), reflective as only a portion of defaults
have been repurchased. The option to repurchase defaulted loans is
capped at 35%.
CGDs in AALLC 2021-1H have been elevated and are above the initial
rating case of 24.00%. To account for recent performance, Fitch
revised the lifetime CGD proxy up to 30.50% from 29.00% at last
year's review. The updated rating case default proxy was
conservatively derived using extrapolations based on performance to
date. The sponsor has the right, but not the obligation to
repurchase defaulted loans, which would result in lower losses on
the transaction. Fitch's analysis does not give any explicit credit
to previously repurchased defaults when deriving the CGD proxies.
Under Fitch's stressed cash flow assumptions, default coverages for
the class A, class B, class C and class D notes can support
multiples exceeding 3.00x, 2.25x, 1.50x and1.25x for 'AAAsf',
'Asf', 'BBBsf' and 'BBsf', respectively.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
Unanticipated increases in the frequency of defaults could produce
default levels higher than the current projected rating case
default proxy, and impact available default coverage and multiples
levels for the transaction.
Weakening asset performance is strongly correlated to increasing
levels of delinquencies and defaults that could negatively affect
credit enhancement (CE) levels. Lower default coverage could impact
ratings and Outlooks, depending on the extent of the decline in
coverage.
In Fitch's initial review of the transactions, the notes were found
to have limited sensitivity to a 1.5x and 2.0x increase of Fitch's
rating case default expectation. For this review, Fitch updated the
analysis of the impact of a 2.0x increase of the rating case
default expectation and the results suggest consistent ratings for
the outstanding notes and in the event of such a stress, these
notes could be downgraded by up to one rating category.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
Stable to improved asset performance driven by stable delinquencies
and defaults would lead to increasing CE levels and consideration
for potential upgrades. Fitch applied an up sensitivity, by
reducing the rating case proxy by 20%. The impact of reducing the
proxies by 20% from the current proxies could result in up to three
categories of upgrades or affirmations of ratings with stronger
multiples.
ACRES COMMERCIAL 2026-FL4: Fitch Gives B(EXP) to Class G Debt
-------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned expected ratings and Rating Outlooks to
ACRES Commercial Realty 2026-FL4 Issuer, LLC:
-- $589,722,000a class A 'AAA(EXP)sf '; Outlook Stable;
-- $104,218,000a class A-S 'AAA(EXP)sf '; Outlook Stable;
-- $72,444,000a class B 'AA-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $58,464,000a class C 'A-(EXP)sf (EXP)'; Outlook Stable;
-- $36,857,000a class D 'BBB(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $17,794,000a class E 'BBB-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $34,315,000 class F 'BB-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $24,149,000 class G 'B-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable.
The following class is not expected to be rated by Fitch:
-- $78,799,158b Income Notes.
(a) Privately placed and pursuant to Rule 144A.
(b) Horizontal risk retention interest, estimated to be 7.750% of
the notional amount of the notes.
The approximate collateral interest balance as of the cutoff date
is $816,762,158 and does not include future funding.
The expected ratings are based on information provided by the
issuer as of Jan. 14, 2026.
Transaction Summary
The issuer's primary assets include 18 loans secured by 20
commercial properties with an aggregate principal balance of
$816,762,158 as of the cutoff date. The pool includes ramp-up
collateral interest of $200 million. The pool features $44 million
of unfunded future funding, $17 million of which is performance
based and not modeled. The loans will be contributed to the issue
by ACRES Realty Funding, Inc. and ACRES Commercial Realty 2026-FL4
Issuer, LLC.
CBRE Loan Services, Inc. is expected to be the master servicer, and
ACRES Capital Servicing LLC is expected to be the special servicer.
The trustee is expected to be Wilmington Trust, National
Association, and the note administrator is expected to be
Computershare Trust Company, National Association. The certificates
are expected to follow a sequential paydown structure.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Fitch Net Cash Flow: Fitch performed cash flow analyses on seven
loans totaling 48.0% of the pool by balance, excluding loans for
which Fitch conducted an alternate value analysis. Fitch's
resulting NCF of $23.9 million represents an 6.2% decrease from the
issuer's underwritten NCF of $25.5 million, excluding loans for
which Fitch conducted an alternate value analysis.
Multifamily Concentration: The pool comprises 100.0% multifamily
properties, compared with the 2025 YTD and 2024 CRE-CLO averages of
77.1% and 78.4%, respectively. The quality of the pool is
comparable to that of Fitch-rated Freddie Mac transactions.
Therefore, Fitch modeled the pool as such, removing the property
type concentration adjustment similar to Freddie Mac and
Fitch-rated CRE-CLO transactions.
Higher Fitch Leverage: The pool 's Fitch leverage is higher than
recent CRE-CLO transactions rated by Fitch. The pool's Fitch
loan-to-value ratio (LTV) of 138.6% is higher than the 2025 YTD
five-year CRE-CLO transaction average of 140.5% and the 2024
five-year CRE-CLO transaction average of 140.7%. The pool's Fitch
NCF debt yield (DY) of 6.2% is lower than the 2025 YTD average of
6.4% and the 2024 average of 6.5%.
Higher Pool Concentration: The pool concentration is higher than
recently rated Fitch transactions. The top-10 loans make up 74.5%,
which is higher than the 2025 YTD five-year CRE-CLO average of
61.2% and the 2024 average of 70.5%. The pool's effective loan
count of 14.7 is below the 2025 YTD and 2024 10-year averages of
20.6 and 16.9, respectively. Fitch views diversity as a key
mitigant to idiosyncratic risk. Fitch raises the overall loss for
pools with effective loan counts below 40.
Amortizing Portfolio: The pool is 89.0% comprised of partially
amortizing loans. This is better than both the 2025 YTD and 2024
CRE-CLO averages of 26.3% and 43.2%, respectively, based on fully
extended loan terms. As a result, the pool is expected to have 1.1%
principal paydown by the maturity of the loans. By comparison, the
average scheduled paydowns for Fitch-rated U.S. CRE-CLO
transactions in 2025 YTD and 2024 were 0.5% and 0.6%,
respectively.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
--Original Rating:
'AAAsf'/'AA-sf'/'A-sf'/'BBBsf'/'BBB-sf'/'BB-sf'/'B-sf'.
--10% NCF Decline: 'AAsf'/'Asf'/'BBBsf'/'BB+sf'/'BBsf'/'B-sf'/
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
--Original Rating:
'AAAsf'/'AA-sf'/'A-sf'/'BBBsf'/'BBB-sf'/'BB-sf'/'B-sf'.
--10% NCF Increase:
'AAAsf'/'AAAsf'/'AAsf'/'Asf'/'BBB+sf'/'BBBsf'/'BB+sf'.
SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL ADJUSTMENTS
Cash Flow Modeling
This transaction utilizes note protection tests to provide
additional credit enhancement (CE) to the investment-grade
noteholders, if needed. The note protection tests comprise an
interest coverage test and a par value test at the 'BBB-'level
(class E) in the capital structure. Should either of these metrics
fall below a minimum requirement then interest payments to the
retained notes are diverted to pay down the senior most notes. This
diversion of interest payments continues until the note protection
tests are back above their minimums.
As a result of this structural feature, Fitch's analysis of the
transaction included an evaluation of the liabilities structure
under different stress scenarios. To undertake this evaluation,
Fitch used the cash flow modeling referenced in the Fitch criteria
"U.S. and Canadian Multiborrower CMBS Rating Criteria." Different
scenarios were run where asset default timing distributions and
recovery timing assumptions were stressed.
Key inputs, including Rating Default Rate (RDR) and Rating Recovery
Rate (RRR), were based on the CMBS multiborrower model output in
combination with CMBS analytical insight. The cash flow modeling
results showed that the default rates in the stressed scenarios did
not exceed the available CE in any stressed scenario.
APEX CREDIT CLO 13: Fitch GIves BB-(EXP) Rating on Class E Notes
----------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned expected ratings and Rating Outlooks to
Apex Credit CLO 13 Ltd.
RATING ACTIONS
Apex Credit CLO 13 LTD.
A-1 LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-2 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B LT AA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
C-1 LT A(EXP)sf Expected Rating
C-2 LT A(EXP)sf Expected Rating
D-1 LT BBB-(EXP)sf Expected Rating
D-2 LT BBB-(EXP)sf Expected Rating
E LT BB-(EXP)sf Expected Rating
Subordinated LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
Transaction Summary
Apex Credit CLO 13 Ltd. (the issuer) is an arbitrage cash flow
collateralized loan obligation (CLO) that will be managed by Apex
Credit Partners LLC. Net proceeds from the issuance of the secured
and subordinated notes will provide financing on a portfolio of
approximately $400 million of primarily first lien senior secured
leveraged loans.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Asset Credit Quality: The average credit quality of the indicative
portfolio is 'B+/B', which is in line with that of recent CLOs. The
weighted average rating factor (WARF) of the indicative portfolio
is 22.76, and will be managed to a WARF covenant from a Fitch test
matrix. Issuers rated in the 'B' rating category denote a highly
speculative credit quality; however, the notes benefit from
appropriate credit enhancement and standard U.S. CLO structural
features.
Asset Security: The indicative portfolio consists of 100%
first-lien senior secured loans. The weighted average recovery rate
(WARR) of the indicative portfolio is 74.69% and will be managed to
a WARR covenant from a Fitch test matrix.
Portfolio Composition: The largest three industries may comprise up
to 40% of the portfolio balance in aggregate while the top five
obligors can represent up to 12.5% of the portfolio balance in
aggregate. The level of diversity resulting from the industry,
obligor and geographic concentrations is in line with other recent
CLOs.
Portfolio Management: The transaction has a 5-year reinvestment
period and reinvestment criteria similar to other CLOs. Fitch's
analysis was based on a stressed portfolio created by adjusting the
indicative portfolio to reflect permissible concentration limits
and collateral quality test levels.
Cash Flow Analysis: Fitch used a customized proprietary cash flow
model to replicate the principal and interest waterfalls and assess
the effectiveness of various structural features of the
transaction. In Fitch's stress scenarios, the rated notes can
withstand default and recovery assumptions consistent with their
assigned ratings.
The WAL used for the transaction stress portfolio and matrices
analysis is 12 months less than the WAL covenant to account for
structural and reinvestment conditions after the reinvestment
period. In Fitch's opinion, these conditions would reduce the
effective risk horizon of the portfolio during stress periods.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
Variability in key model assumptions, such as decreases in recovery
rates and increases in default rates, could result in a downgrade.
Fitch evaluated the notes' sensitivity to potential changes in such
a metric. The results under these sensitivity scenarios are as
severe as between 'BBB+sf' and 'AA+sf' for class A-2, between
'BB+sf' and 'A+sf' for class B, between 'B+sf' and 'BBB+sf' for
class C, between less than 'B-sf' and 'BBB-sf' for class D-1,
between less than 'B-sf' and 'BB+sf' for class D-2 and between less
than 'B-sf' and 'B+sf' for class E.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
Upgrade scenarios are not applicable to the class A-2 notes as
these notes are in the highest rating category of 'AAAsf'.
Variability in key model assumptions, such as increases in recovery
rates and decreases in default rates, could result in an upgrade.
Fitch evaluated the notes' sensitivity to potential changes in such
metrics; the minimum rating results under these sensitivity
scenarios are 'AAAsf' for class B, 'AA+sf' for class C, 'A+sf' for
class D-1, 'A-sf' for class D-2 and 'BBB+sf' for class E.
BAIN CAPITAL 2025-5: Fitch Gives BB-(EXP) Rating to Class E Debt
----------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned expected ratings and Rating Outlooks to
Bain Capital Credit CLO 2025-5, Limited.
RATING ACTIONS
Bain Capital Credit CLO 2025-5, Limited
A-1 LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-2 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B LT AA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
C LT A(EXP)sf Expected Rating
D-1 LT BBB-(EXP)sf Expected Rating
D-2 LT BBB-(EXP)sf Expected Rating
E LT BB-(EXP)sf Expected Rating
Subordinated LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
Transaction Summary
Bain Capital Credit CLO 2025-5, Limited (the issuer) is an
arbitrage cash flow collateralized loan obligation (CLO) that will
be managed by Bain Capital Credit CLO Management III (DE), LP. Net
proceeds from the issuance of the secured and subordinated notes
will provide financing on a portfolio of approximately $600 million
of primarily first lien senior secured leveraged loans.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Asset Credit Quality: The average credit quality of the indicative
portfolio is 'B+/B', which is in line with that of recent CLOs. The
weighted average rating factor (WARF) of the indicative portfolio
is 22.11, and will be managed to a WARF covenant from a Fitch test
matrix. Issuers rated in the 'B' rating category denote a highly
speculative credit quality; however, the notes benefit from
appropriate credit enhancement and standard U.S. CLO structural
features.
Asset Security: The indicative portfolio consists of 97.5%
first-lien senior secured loans. The weighted average recovery rate
(WARR) of the indicative portfolio is 74.07% and will be managed to
a WARR covenant from a Fitch test matrix.
Portfolio Composition: The largest three industries may comprise up
to 42.5% of the portfolio balance in aggregate while the top five
obligors can represent up to 9% of the portfolio balance in
aggregate. The level of diversity resulting from the industry,
obligor and geographic concentrations is in line with other recent
CLOs.
Portfolio Management: The transaction has a five-year reinvestment
period and reinvestment criteria similar to other CLOs. Fitch's
analysis was based on a stressed portfolio created by adjusting the
indicative portfolio to reflect permissible concentration limits
and collateral quality test levels.
Cash Flow Analysis: Fitch used a customized proprietary cash flow
model to replicate the principal and interest waterfalls and assess
the effectiveness of various structural features of the
transaction. In Fitch's stress scenarios, the rated notes can
withstand default and recovery assumptions consistent with their
assigned ratings.
The WAL used for the transaction stress portfolio is 12 months less
than the WAL covenant to account for structural and reinvestment
conditions after the reinvestment period. In Fitch's opinion, these
conditions would reduce the effective risk horizon of the portfolio
during stress periods.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
Variability in key model assumptions, such as decreases in recovery
rates and increases in default rates, could result in a downgrade.
Fitch evaluated the notes' sensitivity to potential changes in such
a metric. The results under these sensitivity scenarios are as
severe as between 'A-sf' and 'AA+sf' for class A-2, between
'BBB-sf' and 'A+sf' for class B, between 'BB-sf' and 'BBB+sf' for
class C, between less than 'B-sf' and 'BB+sf' for class D-1, and
between less than 'B-sf' and 'BB+sf' for class D-2 and between less
than 'B-sf' and 'B+sf' for class E.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
Upgrade scenarios are not applicable to the class A-2 notes as
these notes are in the highest rating category of 'AAAsf'.
Variability in key model assumptions, such as increases in recovery
rates and decreases in default rates, could result in an upgrade.
Fitch evaluated the notes' sensitivity to potential changes in such
metrics; the minimum rating results under these sensitivity
scenarios are 'AAAsf' for class B, 'AAsf' for class C, 'Asf' for
class D-1, and 'BBB+sf' for class D-2 and 'BBBsf' for class E.
BAIN CAPITAL 2025-5: Fitch Gives BB-sf Rating to Class E Debt
-------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned ratings and Rating Outlooks to Bain
Capital Credit CLO 2025-5, Limited.
RATING ACTIONS
Entity / Debt Rating Prior
------------- ------ -----
Bain Capital Credit CLO 2025-5, Limited
A-1 LT NRsf New Rating NR(EXP)sf
A-2 LT AAAsf New Rating AAA(EXP)sf
B LT AAsf New Rating AA(EXP)sf
C LT Asf New Rating A(EXP)sf
D-1 LT BBB-sf New Rating BBB-(EXP)sf
D-2 LT BBB-sf New Rating BBB-(EXP)sf
E LT BB-sf New Rating BB-(EXP)sf
Subordinated LT NRsf New Rating NR(EXP)sf
Transaction Summary
Bain Capital Credit CLO 2025-5, Limited (the issuer) is an
arbitrage cash flow collateralized loan obligation (CLO) that will
be managed by Bain Capital Credit CLO Management III (DE), LP. Net
proceeds from the issuance of the secured and subordinated notes
will provide financing on a portfolio of approximately $600 million
of primarily first-lien senior secured leveraged loans.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Asset Credit Quality: The average credit quality of the indicative
portfolio is 'B+/B', which is in line with that of recent CLOs. The
weighted average rating factor (WARF) of the indicative portfolio
is 22.11 and will be managed to a WARF covenant from a Fitch test
matrix. Issuers rated in the 'B' rating category denote a highly
speculative credit quality; however, the notes benefit from
appropriate credit enhancement and standard U.S. CLO structural
features.
Asset Security: The indicative portfolio consists of 97.5%
first-lien senior secured loans. The weighted average recovery rate
(WARR) of the indicative portfolio is 74.07% and will be managed to
a WARR covenant from a Fitch test matrix.
Portfolio Composition: The largest three industries may comprise up
to 42.5% of the portfolio balance in aggregate while the top five
obligors can represent up to 9% of the portfolio balance in
aggregate. The level of diversity resulting from the industry,
obligor and geographic concentrations is in line with other recent
CLOs.
Portfolio Management: The transaction has a five-year reinvestment
period and reinvestment criteria similar to other CLOs. Fitch's
analysis was based on a stressed portfolio created by adjusting the
indicative portfolio to reflect permissible concentration limits
and collateral quality test levels.
Cash Flow Analysis: Fitch used a customized proprietary cash flow
model to replicate the principal and interest waterfalls and assess
the effectiveness of various structural features of the
transaction. In Fitch's stress scenarios, the rated notes can
withstand default and recovery assumptions consistent with their
assigned ratings.
The WAL used for the transaction stress portfolio is 12 months less
than the WAL covenant to account for structural and reinvestment
conditions after the reinvestment period. In Fitch's opinion, these
conditions would reduce the effective risk horizon of the portfolio
during stress periods.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
Variability in key model assumptions, such as decreases in recovery
rates and increases in default rates, could result in a downgrade.
Fitch evaluated the notes' sensitivity to potential changes in such
a metric. The results under these sensitivity scenarios are as
severe as between 'A-sf' and 'AA+sf' for class A-2, between
'BBB-sf' and 'A+sf' for class B, between 'BB-sf' and 'BBB+sf' for
class C, between less than 'B-sf' and 'BB+sf' for class D-1, and
between less than 'B-sf' and 'BB+sf' for class D-2 and between less
than 'B-sf' and 'B+sf' for class E.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
Upgrade scenarios are not applicable to the class A-2 notes as
these notes are in the highest rating category of 'AAAsf'.
Variability in key model assumptions, such as increases in recovery
rates and decreases in default rates, could result in an upgrade.
Fitch evaluated the notes' sensitivity to potential changes in such
metrics; the minimum rating results under these sensitivity
scenarios are 'AAAsf' for class B, 'AAsf' for class C, 'Asf' for
class D-1, and 'BBB+sf' for class D-2 and 'BBBsf' for class E.
BARINGS INFRASTRUCTURE 2025-I: Moody's Rates Cl. E Notes '(P)Ba3'
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Moody's Ratings has assigned provisional ratings to six classes of
notes to be issued by Barings Infrastructure CLO Ltd. 2025-I (the
Issuer or Barings Infrastructure 2025-I):
US$320,000,000 Class A-1 Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2039,
Assigned (P)Aaa (sf)
US$10,000,000 Class A-2 Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2039,
Assigned (P)Aaa (sf)
US$50,000,000 Class B Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2039, Assigned
(P)Aa3 (sf)
US$30,000,000 Class C Deferrable Floating Rate Mezzanine Notes due
2039, Assigned (P)A3 (sf)
US$30,000,000 Class D Deferrable Floating Rate Mezzanine Notes due
2039, Assigned (P)Baa3 (sf)
US$10,000,000 Class E Deferrable Floating Rate Mezzanine Notes due
2039, Assigned (P)Ba3 (sf)
The notes listed are referred to herein, collectively, as the Rated
Notes.
RATINGS RATIONALE
The rationale for the ratings is based on Moody's methodologies and
considers all relevant risks, particularly those associated with
the CLO's portfolio and structure.
Barings Infrastructure 2025-I is a managed cash flow infrastructure
CLO. The issued notes will be collateralized primarily by senior
secured project finance (PF) infrastructure, corporate
infrastructure, and corporate non-infrastructure loans. At least
40.0% of the portfolio must consist of project finance
infrastructure loans. The infrastructure CLO permits up to 24% of
the portfolio to be in project finance loans in the power
generation sector including the electricity (gas) contracted,
merchant or power renewables sectors. At least 95.0% of the
portfolio must consist of first lien senior secured loans and
eligible investments, and up to 5.0% of the portfolio may consist
of bonds and second lien loans. Moody's expects the portfolio to be
approximately 90% ramped as of the closing date.
Barings LLC (the Manager) will direct the selection, acquisition
and disposition of the assets on behalf of the Issuer and may
engage in trading activity, including discretionary trading, during
the transaction's five year reinvestment period. Thereafter,
subject to certain restrictions, the Manager may reinvest
unscheduled principal payments and proceeds from sales of credit
risk assets. This is the Manager's first infrastructure CLO.
In addition to the Rated Notes, the Issuer will issue one class of
subordinated notes.
The transaction incorporates interest and par coverage tests which,
if triggered, divert interest and principal proceeds to pay down
the notes in order of seniority.
Moody's ratings of the Rated Notes also took into account the
concentrated nature of the portfolio. The infrastructure CLO's
indenture allows for a portfolio that is highly concentrated by
sector and individual asset size. Up to 24% of the portfolio's
assets may be in the power generation sector, with the largest
power generation sub-sector potentially being up to 17.5% of the
portfolio. The five largest sub-sectors could constitute up to 60%
of the portfolio. The four largest sub-sectors could constitute up
to 55% of the portfolio. A minimum of 55% of the portfolio is
required to consists of PF infrastructure assets and corporate
infrastructure assets relating to sectors or industries in
energy-electricity, energy-oil and gas, utilities-electric,
utilities-oil and gas, and utilities-water. The portfolio is
required to have minimum of 80 obligors, with the largest obligor
potentially comprising up to 3.5% of the portfolio for the top
three obligors, and up to 3.0% for each subsequent obligor. Credit
deterioration in a single sector or in a few obligors could have an
outsized negative impact on the CLO portfolio's overall credit
quality. Moody's analysis considered the potential for a
concentrated portfolio.
Moody's modeled the transaction applying the Monte Carlo simulation
framework in Moody's CDOROMâ„¢, as described in the "Project
Finance and Infrastructure Asset CLOs" rating methodology published
in July 2024 and using a cash flow model which estimates expected
loss on a CLO's tranche, as described in the "Collateralized Loan
Obligations" rating methodology published in October 2025.
For modeling purposes, Moody's used the following base-case
assumptions:
Par amount: $500,000,000
Weighted Average Rating Factor (WARF): 2199
Weighted Average Spread (WAS): 2.72%
Weighted Average Recovery Rate (WARR): 62.20%
Weighted Average Life (WAL): 9.0 years
Second lien loans and bonds: 5.00%
Total Obligors: 80
Largest three obligors each and thereafter: 3.50%/3.00%
Largest five obligors: 17.50%
B2 or B3 and below default probability rating obligors: 36.00%
B3 and below default probability rating obligors: 12.50%
PF infrastructure obligors: 40.0%
PF power generation sector: 24.50%
PF power generation subsector: 17.50%
Largest five subsectors: 60.50%
Methodology Underlying the Rating Action:
The methodologies used in these ratings were "Collateralized Loan
Obligations" published in October 2025.
Factors That Would Lead to an Upgrade or Downgrade of the Ratings:
The performance of the Rated Notes is subject to uncertainty. The
performance of the Rated Notes is sensitive to the performance of
the underlying portfolio, which in turn depends on economic and
credit conditions that may change. The Manager's investment
decisions and management of the transaction will also affect the
performance of the Rated Notes.
BBCMS MORTGAGE 2026-5C40: Fitch Gives B(EXP) Rating on F-RR Certs
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned expected ratings and Rating Outlooks to
BBCMS Mortgage Trust 2026-5C40 Commercial Mortgage Pass-Through
Certificates, Series 2026-5C40 as follows:
-- $6,215,000 class A-1 'AAA(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $100,000,000a class A-2 'AAA(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $477,851,000a class A-3 'AAA(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $584,066,000b class X-A 'AAA(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $108,470,000 class A-S 'AAA(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $36,504,000 class B 'AA-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $28,160,000 class C 'A-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $173,134,000bc class X-B 'A-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $20,860,000c class D 'BBB-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $20,860,000bc class X-D 'BBB-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $15,644,000c class E 'BB-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $15,644,000bc class X-E 'BB-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable;
-- $8,344,000cd class F-RR 'B-(EXP)sf'; Outlook Stable.
Fitch does not expect to rate the following classes:
-- $32,332,977cd class G-RR.
(a) The initial certificate balances of A-2 and A-3 are unknown
but expected to be $546,870,000 in aggregate, subject to a 5%
variance. The certificate balances will be determined based on
the final pricing of those certificates. The expected class
A-2 balance range is $0-$200,000,000, and the expected class
A-3 balance range is $377,851,000-$577,851,000. Fitch's
certificate balances for classes A-2 and A-3 are assumed at
the midpoint of each range.
(b) Notional amount and interest only.
(c) Privately placed and pursuant to Rule 144A.
(d) Horizontal risk retention interest totaling approximately
2.1496% of the pool balance.
Additionally, the retaining sponsor is expected to hold an eligible
vertical risk retention interest comprising approximately 2.9100%
of the pool.
Transaction Summary
The certificates represent the beneficial ownership interest in the
trust, the primary assets of which are 44 loans secured by 58
commercial properties with an aggregate principal balance of
$834,380,978, as of the cutoff date. The loans were contributed to
the trust by Barclays Capital Real Estate Inc., Argentic Real
Estate Finance 2 LLC, German American Capital Corporation, KeyBank
National Association, Goldman Sachs Mortgage Company, UBS AG New
York Branch, LMF Commercial, LLC, Citi Real Estate Funding Inc.,
Societe Generale Financial Corporation, and Natixis Real Estate
Capital LLC.
The master servicer is expected to be Midland Loan Services, a
Division of PNC Bank, National Association and the special servicer
is expected to be Argentic Services Company LP. The trustee and
certificate administrator is expected to be Computershare Trust
Company, National Association. Pentalpha Surveillance LLC is
expected to be the operating advisor. The certificates will follow
a sequential paydown structure. The transaction is expected to
close on Feb. 12, 2026.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Fitch Net Cash Flow: Fitch performed cash flow analyses on 24 loans
totaling 81.2% by balance. Fitch's resulting net cash flow (NCF) of
$90.0 million represents a 13.3% decline from the issuer's
underwritten NCF of $103.9 million.
Fitch Leverage: The pool leverage is in-line with those of recent
U.S. private label multiborrower transactions rated by Fitch. The
pool's Fitch loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of 94.8% compares favorably
with the 2025 and 2024 averages of 101.0% and 95.2%, respectively.
The pool's Fitch NCF debt yield (DY) of 10.8% is slightly above the
2025 and 2024 averages of 9.7% and 10.2%, respectively.
Investment-Grade Credit Opinion Loans: Two loans representing 12.0%
of the pool received an investment-grade credit opinion. CityCenter
(Aria & Vdara; 9.0% of the pool) received a standalone credit
opinion of "AAAsf*" while 9911 Belward (3.0% of the pool) received
a standalone credit opinion of "A-sf*". Excluding the credit
opinion loans, the pool's Fitch LTV and DY of 100.6% and 9.7%,
respectively, compared to the 2025 averages of 105.2% and 9.3% and
the 2024 averages of 99.1% and 9.9%, respectively.
Shorter-Duration Loans: Loans with five-year terms constitute 100%
of the pool, whereas Fitch-rated multiborrower transactions have
historically mostly included loans with 10-year terms. Fitch's
historical loan performance analysis shows that five-year loans
have a modestly lower probability of default (PD) than 10-year
loans, all else being equal. This is mainly attributed to the
shorter window of exposure to potential adverse economic
conditions. Fitch considered its loan performance regression in its
analysis of the pool.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
Downgrade Declining cash flow decreases property value and capacity
to meet its debt service obligations. The table below indicates the
model-implied rating sensitivity to changes in one variable, Fitch
NCF:
-- Original Rating: 'AAAsf'/AAAsf'/'AA-sf'/'A-sf'/'BBB-sf'/
'BB-sf'/'B-sf';
-- 10% NCF Decline: 'AAAsf'/AA-sf'/'A-sf'/'BBBsf'/'BBsf'/'CCC+sf'
/below 'CCCsf'
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
Improvement in cash flow increases property value and capacity to
meet its debt service obligations.
The table below indicates the model-implied rating sensitivity to
changes to in one variable, Fitch NCF:
-- Original Rating: 'AAAsf'/AAAsf'/'AA-sf'/'A-sf'/'BBB-sf'/
'BB-sf'/'B-sf';
-- 10% NCF Increase: 'AAAsf'/AAAsf'/'AA+sf'/'Asf'/'BBB+sf'/'BB+sf'
/'BB-sf'
BHG SECURITIZATION 2024-1CON: Fitch Affirms BB Rating on E Notes
----------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has affirmed all notes of BHG Securitization Trust
2024-1CON (BHG 2024-1CON) and BHG Securitization Trust 2025-1CON
(BHG 2025-1CON). The Rating Outlook remains Stable for all notes.
RATING ACTIONS
Entity/Debt Rating Prior
----------- ------ -----
BHG Securitization Trust 2024-1CON
A 08862HAA0 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
B 08862HAB8 LT AA-sf Affirmed AA-sf
C 08862HAC6 LT A-sf Affirmed A-sf
D 08862HAD4 LT BBB-sf Affirmed BBB-sf
E 08862HAE2 LT BBsf Affirmed BBsf
BHG Securitization Trust 2025-1CON
A 08860AAA7 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
B 08860AAB5 LT AA-sf Affirmed AA-sf
C 08860AAC3 LT A-sf Affirmed A-sf
D 08860AAD1 LT BBB-sf Affirmed BBB-sf
E 08860AAE9 LT BBsf Affirmed BBsf
Transaction Summary
BHG 2024-1CON and BHG 2025-1CON are discrete trusts backed by a
pool of consumer loans originated or purchased by BankersHealthcare
Group, LLC (BHG), Pinnacle Bank and County Bank. Fitch has affirmed
all notes of 2024-1CON and 2025-1CON with Stable Outlooks because
the notes passed Fitch's modeling at the requisite rating levels
and the performance of the underlying assets aligns with Fitch's
expectations to date.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Strong Receivables Quality: Both BHG 2024-1CON and BHG 2025-1CON
pools consists of 100% consumer loans made to obligors with strong
credit profiles. At issuance, BHG 2024-1CON pool had a weighted
average (WA) FICO score of 746; 1.08% of the borrowers have a score
below 661 and 51.24% have a score higher than 740. The pool had a
WA original term of 91 months. BHG 2025-1CON at issuance had a WA
FICO score of 736, 1.39% of the borrowers have a score below 661
and 41.04% have a score higher than 740. The pool had a WA original
term of 100 months. As of December 2025, payment period, WA
remaining term are 68 months for BHG 2024-1CON and 89 months for
BHG 2025-1CON.
Default Assumption Reflects Securitized Performance: At closing,
Fitch assigned a base case default assumption of 14.26% for BHG
2024-1CON and 13.80% for BHG 2025-1CON. These assumptions were
established based on BHG's proprietary risk grade and loan term.
For certain segments where Fitch considered the loans to lack
significant historical performance data, Fitch used the performance
of equivalent commercial loans to determine the base case default
assumption. For the current review, Fitch maintained the gross
default rate derived at closing for both transactions, reflecting
the low seasoning of the pool and performance within initial
expectation. As of the December 2025 payment period, cumulative net
losses represented 4.50% of the BHG 2024-1CON pool and 1.00% for
BHG 2025-1CON pool. These levels remain below the amortization
triggers.
Credit Enhancement Mitigates Stressed Losses: The current credit
enhancement (CE) for BHG 2024-1CON as of December 2025 payment date
totals 75.74%, 46.63%, 25.73%, 17.76% and 9.79% for class A, B, C,
D and E notes, respectively. For BHG 2025-1CON the current CE
totals 65.44%, 28.42%, 15.31%, 5.25%, 1.83% for class A, B, C, D
and E notes, respectively. Current CE is sufficient to cover
Fitch's stressed cash flow assumptions for all classes. Fitch
applied a 'AAAsf' default stress multiple of 4.25x for both the
transactions, maintained from last review for BHG 2024-1CON and
from issuance for BHG 2025-1CON. The stress multiples for the
subordinate notes follow the prescribed lower range of the
recommended default stress multiples described in Fitch's Consumer
ABS Rating Criteria. The default multiple reflects the absolute
value of the default assumption, the length of default performance
history for each loan type (shorter for consumer loans), high WA
borrower FICO scores and income and the WA original loan term,
which increases the portfolio's exposure to changing economic
conditions.
Counterparty Risks Addressed: BHG has a long operational history
and demonstrates adequate abilities as the originator, underwriter
and servicer, as evidenced by historical portfolio and previous
securitization performance. Fitch deems BHG capable of servicing
this transaction. Other counterparty risks are mitigated through
the transaction structure and such provisions are in line with
Fitch's counterparty rating criteria.
True Lender Uncertainty for Partner Bank Loan Origination
Continues: BHG, similar to peers, purchases consumer loans
originated by partner banks, in this case Pinnacle Bank, a
Tennessee state-chartered bank (Pinnacle Bank) and County Bank, a
Delaware state-chartered bank (County Bank). Uncertainty regarding
who is the true lender of the loans remains a risk inherent to this
transaction, particularly for consumer loans originated at an
interest rate higher than a borrower state's usury rate. If there
are challenges to the true lender status, and if such challenges
are successful, the consumer loans and certain commercial loans
could be found to be unenforceable, or subject to reduction of the
interest rate, paid or to be paid. If any such challenges are
successful trust performance could be negatively affected, which
would increase negative rating pressure. For this risk, Fitch views
as positive Pinnacle Bank's 49% ownership of BHG, BHG 2024-1CON and
BHG 2025-1CON's consumer loans originated at interest rates below
borrower state's usury rate, while the longer WA loan term of 91
months and 100 months respectively, is viewed as negative.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
BHG 2024-1CON
Current Ratings: 'AAAsf'/'AA-sf'/'A-sf'/'BBB-sf'/'BBsf'
Increased default base case by 10%: 'AAAsf'/'AA-sf'/'BBB+sf'/
'BBBsf'/'BB+sf'
Increased default base case by 25%: 'AA+sf'/'Asf'/'BBBsf'/
'BB+sf'/'BBsf'
Increased default base case by 50%:'AA-sf'/'A-sf'
/'BB+sf'/'BBsf'/'Bsf'
BHG 2025-1CON
Current Ratings: 'AAAsf'/'AA-sf'/'A-sf'/'BBB-sf'/'BBsf'
Increased default base case by 10%:'AAAsf'/'A+sf'/'BBB+sf'/
'BBB-sf'/'BB+sf'
Increased default base case by 25%:'AA+sf'/'A-sf'/'BBBsf'/
'BB+sf'/'BB+sf'
Increased default base case by 50%:'AA-sf'/'BBBsf'/'BB+sf'/
'BBsf'/'BB-sf'
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
BHG 2024-1CON
Current Ratings: 'AAAsf'/'AA-sf'/'A-sf'/'BBB-sf'/'BBsf'.
Decreased default base case by 25%: 'AAAsf'/'AAAsf'/'AA-sf'
/'Asf'/'BBB+sf'
BHG 2025-1CON
Current Ratings: 'AAAsf'/'AA-sf'/'A-sf'/'BBB-sf'/'BBsf'.
Decreased default base case by 25%: 'AAAsf'/'AA+sf'/'AA-sf'
/'Asf'/'A-sf'
BMO 2023-C5: Fitch Affirms 'B-sf' Rating on 2 Tranches
------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has affirmed 18 classes of BMO 2023-C5 Mortgage Trust
(BMO 2023-C5). Following the affirmations, the Outlooks for classes
B, C, D, E, X-B, X-D, and X-E have been revised to Negative from
Stable. The Outlooks for classes F-RR, G-RR, X-FRR, and X-GRR are
Negative.
RATING ACTIONS
Rating Prior
------ -----
BMO 2023-C5
A-1 055988AA7 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
A-2 055988AB5 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
A-4 055988AC3 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
A-5 055988AD1 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
A-S 055988AH2 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
A-SB 055988AE9 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
B 055988AJ8 LT AA-sf Affirmed AA-sf
C 055988AK5 LT A-sf Affirmed A-sf
D 055988AQ2 LT BBBsf Affirmed BBBsf
E 055988AS8 LT BBB-sf Affirmed BBB-sf
F-RR 055988AU3 LT BB-sf Affirmed BB-sf
G-RR 055988AY5 LT B-sf Affirmed B-sf
X-A 055988AF6 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
X-B 055988AG4 LT AA-sf Affirmed AA-sf
X-D 055988AL3 LT BBBsf Affirmed BBBsf
X-E 055988AN9 LT BBB-sf Affirmed BBB-sf
X-FRR 055988AW9 LT BB-sf Affirmed BB-sf
X-GRR 055988BA6 LT B-sf Affirmed B-sf
KEY RATING DRIVERS
'Bsf' Loss Expectations; Specially Serviced Loans: The deal-level
'Bsf' rating case loss has decreased to 4.91% from 5.31% at Fitch's
Prior rating action. The pool loss expectations are driven
primarily by 8 Fitch Loans of Concern (FLOCs; 21.5%), 7 of which
are in special servicing (19.9%).
The Negative Outlooks for classes B, C, D, E, F-RR, G-RR, X-B, X-D,
X-E, X-FRR, and X-GRR reflect the pool's high proportion of loans
in special servicing (21.5%), including a substantial exposure to a
defaulted borrower, withdrawal of the investment-grade credit
opinion for the Oak Street NLP Portfolio (4.6%) loan, and the
potential for further downgrades if recovery prospects on specially
serviced loans worsen or performance continues to deteriorate
beyond current expectations on the FLOCs, including specially
serviced Cincinnati Multifamily Portfolio (6.0%), Cross Island
Plaza (4.6%), and the Penleigh (2.4%).
Largest Contributors to Loss: The largest contributor to overall
pool loss expectations is the Cincinnati Multifamily Portfolio
(6.0% of the pool), which is secured by three multifamily
properties totaling 375 units located in Cincinnati, OH. The
portfolio was 98% occupied with a debt service coverage ratio
(DSCR) of 1.31x as of March 2024 compared to 98% and 1.52x at
issuance. Updated financial reporting has not been provided by the
borrower.
As of December 2025, the loan was over 90 days delinquent and has
not received a payment since January 2025. The loan initially
became delinquent in May 2024 and subsequently transferred to
special servicing in July 2024. The sponsor, Mendel Steiner, died
in January 2025. As of November 2025, the borrower remains
non-compliant with cash management and reporting requirements.
Receivership and foreclosure litigation is ongoing.
Despite the positive cash flow and stable occupancy for the
portfolio, Fitch expects a prolonged loan workout given the
circumstances that could potentially erode property valuation.
Fitch's 'Bsf' rating case loss of 12.4% (prior to concentration
add-ons) reflects the Fitch issuance net cash flow (NCF), an 8.75%
cap rate and factors an elevated probability of default given the
delinquent loan status.
The sponsor also has two other specially serviced loans in the pool
(Steiner Portfolio -Chicago 4-Pack (1%) and Steiner Portfolio -
Chicago 3-Pack (0.7%)). Both loans are secured by multi-family
properties located in Chicago, IL totaling 124 units across both
loans. Similar to the Cincinnati Multifamily Portfolio, performance
generally remains in line with issuance expectations. However,
reporting has been limited. Fitch's 'Bsf' rating case loss for the
Chicago 4-pack loan is 3.7% and 1.9% for the Chicago 3-Pack loan
(prior to concentration add-ons). The losses reflect stresses to
recent appraisal values equating to a recovery of $83,300 per unit
for the Chicago 4-Pack portfolio and $89,300 per unit for the
Chicago 3-Pack portfolio.
The second-largest overall contributor to expected loss is the The
Comfort Suites Maingate East loan (2.2%), which is secured by a
198-unit motel located in Kissimmee, FL, built in 2000 and
renovated in 2020. Performance of the hotel has deteriorated with
the September 2025 NCF reported as negative with an NCF DSCR of
-0.04x. YE 2024 net operating income (NOI) declined 78% from the
originator's underwritten NOI from issuance. Per the March 2025
STAR report, the hotel reported occupancy, average daily rate
(ADR), and revenue per available room (RevPAR) of 72.4%, $117, and
$85, respectively, compared to the comp set average occupancy, ADR,
and RevPAR of 70.4%, $122, and $86.
Additionally, a cash trap was activated following a failure of the
debt yield test. Fitch's 'Bsf' rating case loss is 24.1% (prior to
concentration add-ons), incorporates the 2023 NOI with an 11.5% cap
rate reflecting a stressed value per key of $53,700 per key in-line
with recent sales in the submarket.
The third-largest overall contributor to expected loss is the
Sayville Plaza loan (4.3%), secured by a 229,422sf retail property
located in Bohemia, NY, built in 1969 and renovated in 2021. The
largest tenants at the property include At Home (37.42% with lease
expiry in June 2032), Floor anD (33.58%, September 2036), and Aldi
(9.40%, August 2037). Performance has declined due to the
bankruptcy and closure of anchor tenant Jo-Ann (13.3% of the NRA)
causing property occupancy to fall to 85% as of the July 2025 rent
roll. As of June 2025, NOI DSCR was 0.80x as compared to 1.30x at
issuance. Additionally, a cash trap was activated due to the
bankruptcy of Jo-Ann. Fitch's 'Bsf' rating case loss is
approximately 7.9% (prior to concentration add-ons), which reflects
the TTM June 2025 NOI and an 9% cap rate
The Penleigh loan (2.4%), secured by a 325-unit apartment complex
in Branson MO. The property was originally operated as a hotel but
was redeveloped as a multifamily property following the sponsor's
acquisition. The loan transferred to special servicing in February
2025 and the borrower is in discussion with the servicer on a
workout of the loan. The loan was brought current in October 2025.
As of the September 2024 reporting, the property was 79% occupied
with a NOI debt service coverage ratio of 0.92x, which compares
with 96% and 1.35x at issuance. Fitch's 'Bsf' rating case loss is
approximately 12.8% (prior to concentration add-ons) is based on a
discount to a recent appraisal value reflecting a stressed value of
$53,200 per key.
The Oak Street NLP Fund portfolio loan (4.6%), secured by a
portfolio of grocery stores, office and industrial properties
across the U.S., transferred to special servicing in March 2025.
The loan was subject to a forbearance agreement which expired in
September 2025, and a modification was executed that provides a
payment guarantee that maintains the loan's original LTV at
issuance of 40%. Fitch no longer considers the Oak Street NLP Fund
Portfolio loan an investment-grade credit opinion loan due to the
loans' specially serviced status and modification due to tenant
defaults and vacancies.
Investment-Grade Credit Opinion Loans: Three loans (11.4%) received
an investment-grade credit opinion at issuance. Oak Street NLP Fund
Portfolio (4.6%) received a standalone credit opinion of 'A-sf' but
is no longer considered a credit opinion loan due to the bankruptcy
of the largest tenant in the portfolio. Harborside 2-3 (4.6%)
received a standalone credit opinion of 'BBBsf' and Pacific Design
Center (2.3%) received a standalone credit opinion of 'BBB-sf' at
issuance.
Limited Change to Credit Enhancement (CE): As of the December 2025
distribution date, the aggregate balance of the pool has been
reduced by 1.1% since issuance. There are 22 (66.8%) full-term,
interest-only (IO) loans and six loans (10.1%) have a partial, IO
period. Cumulative interest shortfalls of $68,452 are affecting the
non-rated class J-RR.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
Downgrades to senior 'AAAsf' rated classes are not expected due to
the position in the capital structure and expected continued
amortization and loan repayments but may occur if deal-level losses
increase significantly and/or interest shortfalls occur or are
expected to occur.
Downgrades to classes rated in the 'AAsf' and 'Asf' categories
could occur should performance of the specially serviced
loans/FLOCs deteriorate significantly and/or if more loans than
expected default at or prior to maturity.
Downgrades for the 'BBBsf', 'BBsf' and 'Bsf' categories could occur
with higher-than-expected losses from continued underperformance of
the FLOCs, particularly the loans with deteriorating performance
and/or with greater certainty of losses on the specially serviced
loans, most notably the Cincinnati Multifamily Portfolio or with
prolonged workouts of the other loans in special servicing.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
Upgrades to classes rated in the 'AAsf' and 'Asf' category may be
possible with significantly increased CE from paydowns and/or
defeasance, coupled with stable to improved pool-level loss
expectations and better-than-expected resolutions for the seven
specially serviced loans.
Upgrades to the 'BBBsf' category rated classes would be limited
based on sensitivity to concentrations or the potential for future
concentration. Classes would not be upgraded above 'AA+sf' if there
is the likelihood of interest shortfalls.
Upgrades to the 'BBsf' and 'Bsf' category rated classes are not
likely until the later years in a transaction and only if the
performance of the remaining pool is stable, recoveries on the
specially serviced loans/FLOCs are better than expected and there
is sufficient CE to the classes.
BRAVO RESIDENTIAL 2026-NQM1: Fitch Gives B(EXP) Rating on B-2 Debt
------------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned expected ratings to BRAVO Residential
Funding Trust 2026-NQM1 (BRAVO 2026-NQM1).
RATING ACTIONS
Entity/Debt Rating
----------- ------
BRAVO 2026-NQM1
A-1FCF LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-1LCF LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-1A LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-1B LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-1 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-2 LT AA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-3 LT A(EXP)sf Expected Rating
M-1 LT BBB-(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-1 LT BB(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-2 LT B(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-3 LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
SA LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
FB LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AIOS LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
XS LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
R LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
Transaction Summary
The notes are supported by 779 loans with a total balance of
approximately $401.4 million as of the cutoff date.
Arc Home LLC (ARC Home) and Citadel Servicing Corporation
(Citadel), d/b/a Acra Lending (Acra), originated approximately
46.2% and 36.5% of the pool, respectively, and both are considered
'Acceptable' originators by Fitch. No other originator contributed
more than 10% of the pool. Following servicing transfers after the
closing date, Nationstar Mortgage LLC, d/b/a Rushmore Servicing
(Rushmore), and Citadel Servicing Corporation will service 55.3%
and 44.7% of the loans, respectively.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Credit Risk of Mortgage Assets (Mixed): RMBS transactions are
directly affected by the performance of the underlying residential
mortgages or mortgage-related assets. Fitch analyzes loan-level
attributes and macroeconomic factors to assess the credit risk and
expected losses. BRAVO 2026-NQM1 has a Final PD of 42.6% in the
'AAA' rating stress. Fitch's Final Loss Severity in the 'AAAsf'
rating stress is 41.6%. The expected loss in the 'AAAsf' rating
stress is 17.7%.
The pool consists of 779 primarily newly originated non-QM loans,
with a Fitch FICO of 744 and a WA original CLTV of 70.6. Fitch
considers approximately 85% of the pool non-prime. About 17.7% of
the pool is full documentation; the remaining loans are non-full
documentation, including DSCR (35.7%), bank statements (37.1%), and
other programs (8.4%). DSCR loans receive a slight reduction in the
non-full documentation PD penalty; however, the DSCR all-in
treatment remains more punitive than for fully documented,
borrower-underwritten loans.
Roughly 42.3% of borrowers are self-employed or have unknown
employment status. In addition, approximately 3.8% of the pool was
originated to foreign nationals (including ITIN borrowers), which
is subject to PD penalty due to the perceived weaker connection to
the property.
Fitch's new PD framework added two variables: self-employment
status and a prime versus non-prime classification (based on
documentation type, FICO, and OCLTV). Documentation is simplified
to full versus non-full, and the treatment of alternative
documentation underwriting is less punitive, all else being equal,
resulting in lower PD levels for non-QM pools compared with the
previous methodology.
Structural Analysis (Positive): The mortgage cash flow and loss
allocation in BRAVO 2026-NQM1 are based on a modified sequential
structure whereby the principal is distributed pro rata among the
senior notes while shutting out the subordinate bonds from
principal until all senior classes are reduced to zero. If a
cumulative loss trigger event or delinquency trigger event occurs
in a given period, principal will be distributed sequentially to
class A-1 (collectively, the A-1FCF, A-1LCF, A-1A and A-1B notes),
A-2 and A-3 notes until they are reduced to zero. The class A-1
notes will receive principal payments among themselves either
pro-rata or sequentially depending on which combination of class
A-1 notes is outstanding.
The structure includes a step-up coupon feature where the fixed
interest rate for class A-1, A-2 and A-3 will increase by 100 bps,
subject to the net WAC, starting on the February 2030 payment date.
This reduces the modest excess spread available to repay losses.
Starting on the February 2030 payment date, interest distribution
amounts otherwise allocable to the unrated class B-3, to the extent
available, may be used to reimburse any unpaid cap carryover amount
for class A-1, A-2 and A-3 notes.
Furthermore, the provision for principal amounts to pay any unpaid
interest prior to principal distribution is highly supportive of
timely interest payments to the notes in the absence of P&I
advancing.
Fitch analyses the capital structure to determine the adequacy of
the transaction's credit enhancement (CE) to support payments on
the securities under multiple scenarios incorporating Fitch's loss
projections derived from the asset analysis. Fitch applies its
assumptions for defaults, prepayments, delinquencies and interest
rate scenarios. The credit enhancement for all ratings were
sufficient for the given rating levels. The credit enhancement for
a given rating exceeded the expected losses of that rating stress
to address the structures recoupment of advances and leakage of
principal to more subordinate classes.
Operational Risk Analysis (Positive): Fitch considers aggregator,
originator and servicer capability, and the transaction-specific
representation, warranty and enforcement (RW&E) framework as
qualitative inputs to its RMBS ratings framework. These
counterparty assessments are conducted and updated on a regular
cadence independent of any specific RMBS rating, and Fitch uses a
risk-based framework — considering contribution share and
collateral profile — to determine which parties warrant review.
The only consideration that has a direct impact on Fitch's loss
expectations is the third-party due diligence results. Third-party
due diligence was performed on 100% of the loans in the
transaction. Fitch applies a 5-bp z-score reduction for loans fully
reviewed by a TPR firm deemed 'Acceptable' by Fitch and have a
final grade of either A or B.
Counterparty and Legal Analysis (Neutral): Fitch expects all
relevant transaction parties to conform with the requirements
described in its "Global Structured Finance Rating Criteria."
Relevant parties are those whose failure to perform could have a
material outcome on the performance of the transaction. In
addition, all legal requirements should be satisfied to fully
de-link the transaction from any other entities. Fitch expects
BRAVO 2026-NQM1 to be fully de-linked and bankruptcy remote SPV.
All transaction parties and triggers align with Fitch
expectations.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
The defined negative rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
the ratings would react to steeper market value declines (MVDs) at
the national level. The analysis assumes MVDs of 10.0%, 20.0% and
30.0%, in addition to the model projected 37.8% at 'AAA'. The
analysis indicates that there is some potential rating migration
with higher MVDs for all rated classes, compared with the model
projection. Specifically, a 10% additional decline in home prices
would lower all rated classes by one full category.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
The defined positive rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
the ratings would react to positive home price growth of 10% with
no assumed overvaluation. Excluding the senior class, which is
already rated 'AAAsf', the analysis indicates there is potential
positive rating migration for all the rated classes. Specifically,
a 10% gain in home prices would result in a full category upgrade
for the rated class excluding those being assigned ratings of
'AAAsf'.
This section provides insight into the model-implied sensitivities
the transaction faces when one assumption is modified, while
holding others equal. The modeling process uses the modification of
these variables to reflect asset performance in up and down
environments. The results should only be considered as one
potential outcome, as the transaction is exposed to multiple
dynamic risk factors. It should not be used as an indicator of
possible future performance.
CATAMARAN CLO 2014-1: Moody's Cuts $38.5MM D-R Notes Rating to B2
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Moody's Ratings upgrades rating on one class and downgrades the
rating on one class of notes issued by Catamaran CLO 2014-1 Ltd.
US$37,000,000 Class C-R Deferrable Floating Rate Notes due 2030,
Upgraded to Aa3 (sf); previously on August 18, 2025 Upgraded to A3
(sf)
Moody's have also downgraded the rating on the following note:
US$38,500,000 Class D-R Deferrable Floating Rate Notes due 2030,
Downgraded to B2 (sf); previously on November 14, 2023 Downgraded
to B1 (sf)
Catamaran CLO 2014-1 Ltd., originally issued in May 2014 and
refinanced in October 2017, is a managed cashflow CLO. The notes
are collateralized primarily by a portfolio of broadly syndicated
senior secured corporate loans. The transaction's reinvestment
period ended in October 2022.
A comprehensive review of all credit ratings for the respective
transaction(s) has been conducted during a rating committee.
RATINGS RATIONALE
The upgrade rating action is primarily a result of deleveraging of
the senior notes and an increase in the transaction's
over-collateralization (OC) ratios since August 2025. The Class
A-1A and Class A-1B notes have been paid down completely and Class
A-2R notes have been paid down approximately by 8.64% or $5.2
million since then. Based on the trustee's December 2025 report,
the OC ratio for the Class C-R notes is reported at 132.47%[1]
versus August 2025 level of 125.25%[2].
The downgrade rating action on the Class D-R notes reflects the
specific risks to the junior notes posed by par loss and credit
deterioration observed in the underlying CLO portfolio. Based on
the trustee's December 2025 report, the OC ratio for the CLO Class
D-R notes was 101.99%[3] versus 103.34%[4] in August 2025.
Additionally, based on the trustee December 2025 report, the
weighted average rating factor (WARF) has been deteriorating and
the current level is 3720[5], compared to 3376[6] in August 2025,
failing the maximum test level of 2963. Based on the trustee's
December 2025 report, exposure to assets rated Caa1 and below is
reported at 18.73%[7], versus August 2025 level of 10.68%[8].
Furthermore, Moody's notes that the December 2025 trustee reported
WARF, Diversity and WAL test are currently failing.
No actions were taken on the Class A-2R, Class B-R and Class E-R
notes because their expected losses remain commensurate with their
current ratings, after taking into account the CLO's latest
portfolio information, its relevant structural features and its
actual over-collateralization and interest coverage levels.
Moody's modeled the transaction using a cash flow model based on
the Binomial Expansion Technique, as described in "Collateralized
Loan Obligations" rating methodology published in October 2025.
The key model inputs Moody's used in Moody's analysis, such as par,
weighted average rating factor, diversity score, weighted average
spread, and weighted average recovery rate, are based on Moody's
published methodology and could differ from the trustee's reported
numbers. For modeling purposes, Moody's used the following
base-case assumptions:
Performing par and principal proceeds balance: $181,276,533
Defaulted par: $579,615
Diversity Score: 38
Weighted Average Rating Factor (WARF): 3482
Weighted Average Spread (WAS): 3.19%
Weighted Average Recovery Rate (WARR): 45.83%
Weighted Average Life (WAL): 2.9 years
Par haircut in OC tests and interest diversion test: 6.39%
In addition to base case analysis, Moody's ran additional scenarios
where outcomes could diverge from the base case. The additional
scenarios consider one or more factors individually or in
combination, and include: defaults by obligors whose low ratings or
debt prices suggest distress, defaults by obligors with potential
refinancing risk, deterioration in the credit quality of the
underlying portfolio, and, lower recoveries on defaulted assets.
Methodology Used for the Rating Action
The principal methodology used in these ratings was "Collateralized
Loan Obligations" published in October 2025.
Factors that Would Lead to an Upgrade or Downgrade of the Ratings:
The performance of the rated notes is subject to uncertainty. The
performance of the rated notes is sensitive to the performance of
the underlying portfolio, which in turn depends on economic and
credit conditions that may change. The Manager's investment
decisions and management of the transaction will also affect the
performance of the rated notes.
CFCRE 2016-C6: Fitch Cuts Rating on Class D Certs to CCCsf
----------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has downgraded one and affirmed 11 classes of Cantor
Commercial Real Estate's CFCRE 2016-C6 Mortgage Trust (CFCRE
2016-C6) commercial mortgage pass-through certificates. The Rating
Outlooks on classes A-M, B, C, and X-B remain Negative.
Additionally, Fitch has affirmed 13 classes of Cantor Commercial
Real Estate's CFCRE 2016-C7 Mortgage Trust (CFCRE 2016-C7)
commercial mortgage pass-through certificates. The Rating Outlooks
on affirmed classes A-M, B, and X-B were revised to Stable from
Negative. The Rating Outlook for affirmed class C remains
Negative.
RATING ACTIONS
Entity / Debt Rating Prior
------------ ------ -----
CFCRE 2016-C6
A-2 12532AAY5 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
A-3 12532AAZ2 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
A-M 12532ABA6 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
B 12532ABB4 LT A-sf Affirmed A-sf
C 12532ABC2 LT BBsf Affirmed BBsf
D 12532AAA7 LT CCCsf Downgrade B-sf
E 12532AAC3 LT CCsf Affirmed CCsf
F 12532AAE9 LT Csf Affirmed Csf
X-A 12532ABD0 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
X-B 12532ABE8 LT A-sf Affirmed A-sf
X-E 12532AAL3 LT CCsf Affirmed CCsf
X-F 12532AAN9 LT Csf Affirmed Csf
CFCRE 2016-C7
A-2 12532BAC1 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
A-3 12532BAD9 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
A-M 12532BAE7 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
A-SB 12532BAB3 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
B 12532BAF4 LT AA-sf Affirmed AA-sf
C 12532BAG2 LT BBB-sf Affirmed BBB-sf
D 12532BAL1 LT CCCsf Affirmed CCCsf
E 12532BAN7 LT Csf Affirmed Csf
F 12532BAQ0 LT Csf Affirmed Csf
X-A 12532BAH0 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
X-B 12532BAJ6 LT AA-sf Affirmed AA-sf
X-E 12532BAW7 LT Csf Affirmed Csf
X-F 12532BAY3 LT Csf Affirmed Csf
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Performance and 'B' Loss Expectations: The deal-level 'Bsf' rating
case loss for the CFCRE 2016-C6 and CFCRE 2016-C7 transactions is
9.4% and 6.7%, respectively. The CFCRE 2016-C6 transaction has 13
Fitch Loans of Concern (FLOCs; 36.4% of the pool) with four loans
(14.6%) in special servicing. The CFCRE 2016-C7 transaction has 6
FLOCs (12.1%) including one loan (6.0%) in special servicing.
Due to concentration of upcoming loan maturities in both
transactions, Fitch performed a sensitivity and liquidation
analysis that grouped the remaining loans based on their collateral
quality, current status, and perceived likelihood of repayment
and/or loss expectations. Loan maturities are concentrated in the
second half of 2026 with all loans having a maturity or anticipated
repayment date (ARD ) in 2026 for CFCRE 2016-C6 and CFCRE 2016-C7.
CFCRE 2016-C6: The downgrade reflects the higher pool loss
expectations since the prior rating action, driven primarily by the
specially serviced loan, Hill7 Office (10.2% of the pool), which
experienced performance deterioration due to elevated vacancy and
was transferred to special servicing in October 2025 for imminent
monetary default, and FLOCs 7th & Pine Seattle Retail & Parking,
Residence Inn by Marriott LAX, and Holiday Inn Indianapolis-Carmel,
showing sustained performance deterioration with elevated refinance
concerns.
The Negative Outlooks reflects sensitivity to concentrations and
potential adverse selection. They also reflect reliance on FLOCs
and specially serviced loans that may face refinancing challenges
at maturity, including the specially serviced loans Hill7 Office,
Ozre Leased Fee Portfolio, and Sherman Medical Office Building and
312-314 Blecker Street and the FLOCs.
CFCRE 2016-C7: The Affirmations and Outlook revisions to Stable
from Negative for classes A-M, B, and X-B reflect generally stable
pool performance and loss expectations since the prior rating
action and lower relative exposure to underperformance from office
loans in the pool.
The Negative Outlook on Class C reflects the potential for
downgrades if performance on the workout of the specially serviced
681 Fifth Avenue loan (6%) is prolonged, with additional value
degradation and/or increasing exposure, leading to
higher-than-expected losses. Downgrades are also possible if loans
currently expected to refinance default on or before their maturity
dates.
Largest Increases in Loss Expectations/Largest Loss Contributors:
The largest contributor to overall loss expectations and
second-largest increase in loss since the prior rating action in
CFCRE 2016-C6 is the 7th and Pine Seattle Retail & Parking loan
(8.6%), which is secured by a 361,650-sf CBD, retail/parking garage
property located in Seattle, WA. This FLOC was flagged due to
sustained performance declines, particularly from the parking
garage component of the collateral, which has an upcoming lease
expiration in October 2026 ahead of the November 2026 maturity. As
of September 2025, the property was 96% occupied. The
servicer-reported NOI DSCR was 1.05x as of YTD September 2025,
compared with 0.94x at YE 2024, 1.0x at YE 2023, 0.85x at YE 2022
and 0.58x at YE 2021, and 1.41x at YE 2019.
Fitch's 'Bsf' ratings case loss of 44.0% (prior to concentration
add-ons) reflects a 9.5% cap rate to the YE 2024 NOI and an
increased probability of default given the upcoming rollover and
anticipated refinance concerns.
The largest increase in loss since the prior rating action and
second-largest contributor to overall loss expectations in CFCRE
2016-C6 is the Hill7 Office loan, which is secured by a 285,680-sf
office property in Seattle, WA. The loan transferred to Special
Servicing in October 2025 due to imminent monetary default. Per
servicer's comment, the borrower has engaged an advisor, and the
special servicer is evaluating the loan. The loan is structured
with an ARD of November 2026 and a maturity date of November 2028.
Beyond the ARD, the interest rate will increase to the greater of
2% plus the initial interest rate, or 2% plus the then current swap
yield for the corresponding ARD term.
As of September 2025, the servicer-reported NOI DSCR was 2.55x,
compared with 3.77x at YE 2024.The September 2025 property
occupancy was 47%. The property had exposure to WeWork, which
occupied 19% of the NRA and vacated after declaring bankruptcy in
2023. The second-largest tenant, HBO Code Labs (39.3%), vacated its
space upon lease expiration in May 2025.
The largest tenant, Redfin Corporation, which occupies 39% of the
NRA on a lease through July 2027, subleases its space on the 7th
floor (10%) to ABC Legal and the 4th and 5th floor is listed for
sublease. The loan is structured with a cash sweep tied to major
tenants including RedFin and HBO, capped at $40 psf. Approximately
$4.5 million is currently being held for the HBO Code Labs space.
CoStar reports an office vacancy rate of 31.1% in the Seattle CBD
submarket and an elevated availability rate of 35.4% as of the
third quarter of 2025.
Fitch's 'Bsf' rating case loss of 18.9% (prior to concentration
add-ons) reflects a 9% cap rate, 30% stress to the YE 2024 NOI and
factors an increased probability of default to account for the
loan's heightened maturity default concerns.
The largest contributor to overall loss expectations and largest
increase in loss since the prior rating action in CFCRE 2016-C7 is
the 681 Fifth Avenue loan, which is secured by 82,573-sf mixed-use
retail and office property located in Midtown Manhattan's Plaza
District. The loan was transferred to special servicing in
September 2023 due to payment default. The loan has been 90-plus
days delinquent since March 2024, with a motion for judgement of
foreclosure filed in November 2025 and a receiver remains in
place.
The majority of the property's rental income (78% of total base
rents) came from the dark retail tenant, Tommy Hilfiger (27.3% of
the NRA), which vacated in April 2019 but continued to pay rent
until its lease expiration in May 2023. In addition, Apex (7.0% of
the NRA) vacated at its March 2023 lease expiration, causing
occupancy to fall to 52% and the NOI DSCR to 0.93x as of YE 2023
from 1.65x at YE 2022. Occupancy remains at 52%, while NOI DSCR
declined to 0.08 at YE 2024 and 0.04x for YTD September
2025.Fitch's 'Bsf' rating case loss of 72.0% (prior to
concentration add-ons) reflects a discount to the latest appraisal
value provided by the servicer and a 76% value decline from the
appraised value at issuance.
The second-largest contributor to expected losses in the pool is
the Fresno Fashion Fair loan (7.2%), secured by a 536,093 sf of
inline space in a super-regional mall located in Fresno, CA. The
property has demonstrated a strong recovery from the effects of the
pandemic. Per the YE 2024 servicer's report, the property has
remained 97% occupied with a 2.34x NOI DSCR. The YE 2024 NOI is 25%
above YE 2020 and remains 5% above the originator's underwritten
NOI from issuance. According to the most recently received rent
roll, there is rollover risk of 11.2% of the NRA expiring in 2025,
15.2% in 2026, 11.4% in 2027, and 20.1% in 2028.
Fitch's 'Bsf' ratings case loss of 8.4% (prior to concentration
add-ons) reflects a 13% cap rate, and a 7.5% stress to the YE 2024
NOI.
Change in Credit Enhancement (CE): As of the December 2025
distribution statement, the aggregate balances of the CFCRE 2016-C6
and CFCRE 2016-C7 transactions have been reduced by 11.9% and 13%,
respectively. There are 14 loans (33.6%) in CFCRE 2016-C6 and 7
loans (10.0%) CFCRE 2016-C7 are defeased. Interest shortfalls of
$362,802 are impacting the non-rated class G in CFCRE 2016-C6 and
$2.6 million are impacting the rated class D in CFCRE 2016-C7.
Realized losses of $5.9 million are impacting the non-rated class G
in the CFCRE 2016-C6 transaction and $18.4 million are impacting
the nonrated class G in CFCRE 2016-C7 transaction.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
Downgrades to senior 'AAAsf' rated classes are not expected due to
the position in the capital structure and expected continued
amortization and loan repayments but may occur if deal-level losses
increase significantly and/or interest shortfalls occur or are
expected to occur.
Downgrades to junior 'AAAsf', 'AAsf' and 'Asf' categories are
possible with outsized losses on all of the FLOCs, including 7th &
Pine Seattle Retail & Parking, Residence Inn by Marriott LAX,
Holiday Inn Indianapolis - Carmel, Northside Tower and Biston
Portfolio, in the CFCRE 2016-C6 transaction and Residence Inn by
Marriott LAX, KB Texas Dialysis Portfolio, and Oswego Commons in
the CFCRE 2016-C7 transaction.
Downgrades to the 'BBBsf' and 'BBsf' categories are possible with
higher-than-expected losses from continued underperformance of the
aforementioned FLOCs and if recovery prospects worsen on the
specially serviced Hill7 Office, Ozre Leased Fee Portfolio, Sherman
Medical Office building and 312 - 314 Bleeker Street loans in the
CFCRE 2016-C6 transaction and the specially serviced 681 Fifth
Avenue loan in the CFCRE 2016-C7 transaction.
Downgrades to distressed classes would occur if additional loans
transfer to special servicing and/or default, and as losses are
realized or become more certain.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
Upgrades to the 'AAsf' and 'Asf' categories could occur with
improvements in credit enhancement (CE) from paydowns and/or
defeasance, coupled with stable-to-improved pool-level loss
expectations and improved performance on the aforementioned FLOCs.
Classes would not be upgraded above 'AA+sf' if there were
likelihood of interest shortfalls.
Upgrades to the 'BBB-sf' rated classes would be limited based on
sensitivity to concentrations or the potential for future
concentration.
Upgrades to the 'BBsf' and 'Bsf' rated classes are not likely until
the later years in a transaction and only if the performance of the
remaining pool is stable, recoveries on the FLOCs, are better than
expected and there is sufficient CE to the classes.
Upgrades to 'CCCsf', 'CCsf' and 'Csf' rated classes are not likely,
but may be possible with better-than-expected recoveries on
specially serviced loans and/or significantly higher values on
FLOCs.
EFMT 2026-CES1: Fitch Rates Class B2 Certs 'Bsf'
------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned final ratings to EFMT 2026-CES1.
RATING ACTIONS
Entity/Debt Rating Prior
----------- ------ -----
EFMT 2026-CES1
A1 26846MAC8 LT AAAsf New Rating AAA(EXP)sf
A1A 26846MAA2 LT AAAsf New Rating AAA(EXP)sf
A1B 26846MAB0 LT AAAsf New Rating AAA(EXP)sf
A2 26846MAD6 LT AAsf New Rating AA(EXP)sf
A3 26846MAE4 LT Asf New Rating A(EXP)sf
M1 26846MAF1 LT BBBsf New Rating BBB(EXP)sf
B1 26846MAG9 LT BBsf New Rating BB(EXP)sf
B2 26846MAH7 LT Bsf New Rating B(EXP)sf
B3 26846MAJ3 LT NRsf New Rating NR(EXP)sf
R 26846MAL8 LT NRsf New Rating NR(EXP)sf
XS 26846MAK0 LT NRsf New Rating NR(EXP)sf
Transaction Summary
Fitch has rated the residential mortgage-backed certificates backed
by 100% closed-end second lien (CES) loans on residential
properties to be issued by EFMT 2026-CES1, as indicated above. This
is the sixth transaction to be rated by Fitch that includes 100%
CES loans off the EFMT shelf. The transaction is scheduled to close
on or about Jan. 15, 2026.
The pool consists of 2,802 newly originated performing CES loans
with a current outstanding balance (as of the cutoff date) of
$221.81 million. The loans in the pool are mainly originated by
loanDepot.com, LLC (47.12%), PennyMac Loan Services, LLC (33.29%)
and Newrez LLC (12. 81%). The remainder of the mortgage loans were
originated by six other third-party originators that, in each case,
originated less than 10.00% of these loans.
The loans are serviced by the following servicers: loanDepot.com
(Acceptable) for 47.12% of the loans; PennyMac Loan Services
(RPS2/Stable), for 33.29%; and Cornerstone Home Lending
(RPS3/Stable), for 19.58%. Nationstar Mortgage LLC (RMS1-/Stable)
is the master servicer.
Distributions of interest and principal are based on a sequential
structure, while losses are allocated reverse sequentially,
starting with the most subordinate class.
The servicers will not be advancing delinquent monthly payments of
principal and interest (P&I).
The collateral comprises 100% fixed-rate loans. Class A-1A, A-1B,
A-2 and A-3 certificates, with respect to any distribution date
prior to the distribution date in January 2030, will have an annual
rate equal to the lower of (i) the applicable fixed rate set forth
for such class of certificates or (ii) the net weighted average
coupon (WAC) for such distribution date. On and after January 2030,
the pass-through rate will be a per annum rate equal to the lower
of (i) the sum of (a) the applicable fixed rate set forth in the
table above for such class of certificates and (b) the step-up rate
(1.0%) or (ii) the net WAC rate for the related distribution date.
The pass-through rate on class M-1, B-1 and B-2 certificates with
respect to any distribution date and the related accrual period
will be an annual rate equal to the lower of (i) the applicable
fixed rate set forth for such class of certificates or (ii) the net
WAC for such distribution date.
The pass-through rate on class B-3 certificates with respect to any
distribution date and the related accrual period will be an annual
rate equal to the net WAC for such distribution date.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Credit Risk of High-Quality, Prime, CES Mortgage Assets: RMBS
transactions are directly affected by the performance of the
underlying residential mortgages or mortgage-related assets. Fitch
analyzes loan-level attributes and macroeconomic factors to assess
the credit risk and expected losses.
The loans are seasoned at an average of seven months, according to
Fitch, and six months, per the transaction documents. The pool has
a weighted average (WA) original FICO score of 737, which is
indicative of very high credit-quality borrowers. About 38.6% of
the loans, as determined by Fitch, have a borrower with an original
FICO score equal to or above 750. The original WA combined
loan-to-value ratio (cLTV) of 65.96% translates to a sustainable
loan-to-value ratio (sLTV) of 73.68%.
Of the pool, 99.50% of the loans are owner occupied, 0.50% are
second homes and 0.00% are investor homes. Single-family homes,
PUDs, townhouses and single-family attached dwellings constitute
97.48% of the pool; condos make up 2.43% and multifamily homes make
up 0.09%. The pool consists of 99.27% cashout refinances
(cashouts), 0.22% rate refinances and 0.52% purchase loans (based
on Fitch's analysis of the pool and per the transaction documents).
Fitch only considers loans a cashout if the cashout amount is
greater than 2% of the original balance.
EFMT 2026-CES1 has a final probability of default (PD) of 18.59% in
the 'AAAsf' rating stress. Fitch's final loss severity (LS) in the
'AAAsf' rating stress is 98.12%. The expected loss in the 'AAAsf'
rating stress is 18.24%.
Structural Analysis: Sequential Structure with 180-Day Chargeoff
Feature/Best Execution and No DQ P&I Advancing: The proposed
structure is a sequential structure in which principal is
distributed, first, to the A-1A and A-1B classes pro rata, and
then, sequentially, to the A-2, A-3, M-1, B-1, B-2 and B-3 classes.
Interest is prioritized in the principal waterfall, and any unpaid
interest amounts are paid prior to principal being paid.
The transaction has monthly excess cash flows that are used to
repay any realized losses incurred, and then unpaid cap carryover
interest shortfalls.
A realized loss will occur if, after giving effect to the
allocation of the principal remittance amount and monthly excess
cash flow on any distribution date, the aggregate collateral
balance is less than the aggregate outstanding balance of the
outstanding classes. Realized losses will be allocated reverse
sequentially, with the losses allocated, first, to class B-3 and,
once class A-2 is written off, class A-1B will take losses first,
and then A-1A.
The transaction will have subordination and excess spread,
providing credit enhancement (CE) and protection from losses.
With respect to any mortgage loan that becomes 180 days MBA
delinquent, the servicer will review, and may charge off, such
mortgage loan (based on an equity analysis review performed by the
servicer) if such review indicates no significant recovery is
likely in respect of such mortgage loan.
Fitch views the servicer conducting an equity analysis to determine
the best execution strategy for the liquidation of severely
delinquent loans as a positive, as the servicer and controlling
holder are acting in the best interest of the certificate holders
to limit losses on the transaction. The servicer deciding to write
off the losses at 180 days would compare favorably to a delayed
liquidation scenario, whereby the loss occurs later in the life of
the transaction and less excess is available. In its cash flow
analysis, Fitch assumed the loans would be written off at 180 days,
as this is the most likely scenario in a stressed case when there
is limited equity in the home.
The servicer will not be advancing delinquent (DQ) P&I on the
loans; as a result, principal may need to be used to pay interest
on the bonds, which may place additional stress on the structure.
Operational Risk Analysis: Fitch considers originator and servicer
capability, third-party due diligence results, and the
transaction-specific representation, warranty and enforcement
(RW&E) framework to derive a potential operational risk adjustment.
The only consideration that has a direct impact on Fitch's loss
expectations is due diligence. Third-party due diligence was
performed on all the loans in the transaction and resulted in all
loans receiving grades of "A" or "B". Fitch applies a 5-bp z-score
reduction for loans fully reviewed by a third-party review (TPR)
firm, which have a final grade of either "A" or "B".
Counterparty and Legal Analysis: Fitch expects all relevant
transaction parties to conform with the requirements described in
its "Global Structured Finance Rating Criteria." Relevant parties
are those whose failure to perform could have a material impact on
the performance of the transaction. Additionally, all legal
requirements should be satisfied to fully de-link the transaction
from any other entities. EFMT 2026-CES1 is fully de-linked and a
bankruptcy-remote special-purpose vehicle (SPV) which is consistent
to Fitch's criteria. All transaction parties and triggers align
with Fitch's expectations.
Rating Cap Analysis: Common rating caps in U.S. RMBS may include,
but are not limited to, new product types with limited or volatile
historical data and transactions with weak operational or
structural/counterparty features. These considerations do not apply
to EFMT 2026-CES1, and, therefore, Fitch is comfortable rating to
the highest possible rating at 'AAAsf' without any rating caps.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
Fitch incorporates a sensitivity analysis to demonstrate how the
ratings would react to steeper market value declines (MVDs) than
assumed at the MSA level. Sensitivity analysis was conducted at the
state and national levels to assess the effect of higher MVDs for
the subject pool as well as lower MVDs, illustrated by a gain in
home prices.
This defined negative rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
ratings would react to steeper MVDs at the national level. The
analysis assumes MVDs of 10.0%, 20.0% and 30.0%, in addition to the
model-projected 10.25%, in the base case. The analysis indicates
some potential rating migration, with higher MVDs for all rated
classes compared with the model projection. Specifically, a 10%
additional decline in home prices would lower all rated classes by
one full category.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
Fitch incorporates a sensitivity analysis to demonstrate how the
ratings would react to steeper MVDs than assumed at the MSA level.
Sensitivity analysis was conducted at the state and national levels
to assess the effect of higher MVDs for the subject pool as well as
lower MVDs, illustrated by a gain in home prices.
This defined positive rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
the ratings would react to positive home price growth of 10% with
no assumed overvaluation. Excluding the senior class, which is
already rated 'AAAsf', the analysis indicates there is potential
positive rating migration for all the rated classes. Specifically,
a 10% gain in home prices would result in a full category upgrade
for the rated class excluding those being assigned ratings of
'AAAsf'.
This section provides insight into the model-implied sensitivities
the transaction faces when one assumption is modified, while
holding others equal. The modeling process uses the modification of
these variables to reflect asset performance in up and down
environments. The results should only be considered as one
potential outcome, as the transaction is exposed to multiple
dynamic risk factors. It should not be used as an indicator of
possible future performance.
FIRST FRANKLIN 2006-FF14: Moody's Ups Rating on A1 Certs to Caa1
----------------------------------------------------------------
Moody's Ratings has upgraded the ratings of five bonds from two US
residential mortgage-backed transactions (RMBS), backed by subprime
mortgages issued by First Franklin Mortgage Loan Trust.
A comprehensive review of all credit ratings for the respective
transactions has been conducted during a rating committee.
The complete rating actions are as follows:
Issuer: First Franklin Mortgage Loan Trust 2006-FF14
Cl. A1, Upgraded to Caa1 (sf); previously on Apr 6, 2010 Downgraded
to Caa3 (sf)
Cl. A6, Upgraded to Caa3 (sf); previously on Apr 6, 2010 Confirmed
at Ca (sf)
Issuer: First Franklin Mortgage Loan Trust 2006-FF7
Cl. I-A, Upgraded to Aaa (sf); previously on Mar 24, 2023 Upgraded
to Aa2 (sf)
Cl. II-A-3, Upgraded to Caa1 (sf); previously on Apr 6, 2010
Downgraded to Caa3 (sf)
Cl. II-A-4, Upgraded to Caa3 (sf); previously on Apr 6, 2010
Downgraded to Ca (sf)
RATINGS RATIONALE
The rating actions reflect the current levels of credit enhancement
available to the bonds, the recent performance, analysis of the
transaction structures, Moody's updated loss expectations on the
underlying pools and Moody's revised loss-given-default expectation
for each bond.
Some of the bonds experiencing a rating change has either incurred
a missed or delayed disbursement of an interest payment or is
currently, or expected to become, undercollateralized, which may
sometimes be reflected by a reduction in principal (a write-down).
Moody's expectations of loss-given-default assesses losses
experienced and expected future losses as a percent of the original
bond balance.
The rating upgrade of Class I-A from First Franklin Mortgage Loan
Trust 2006-FF7 is a result of the improving performance of the
related pool.
No action was taken on the other rated class in these deals because
the expected loss remains commensurate with the current rating,
after taking into account the updated performance information,
structural features and credit enhancement.
Principal Methodology
The principal methodology used in these ratings was "US Residential
Mortgage-backed Securitizations: Surveillance" published in
December 2024.
Factors that would lead to an upgrade or downgrade of the ratings:
Up
Levels of credit protection that are higher than necessary to
protect investors against current expectations of loss could drive
the ratings of the subordinate bonds up. Losses could decline from
Moody's original expectations as a result of a lower number of
obligor defaults or appreciation in the value of the mortgaged
property securing an obligor's promise of payment. Transaction
performance also depends greatly on the US macro economy and
housing market.
Down
Levels of credit protection that are insufficient to protect
investors against current expectations of loss could drive the
ratings down. Losses could rise above Moody's expectations as a
result of a higher number of obligor defaults or deterioration in
the value of the mortgaged property securing an obligor's promise
of payment. Transaction performance also depends greatly on the US
macro economy and housing market. Other reasons for
worse-than-expected performance include poor servicing, error on
the part of transaction parties, inadequate transaction governance
and fraud.
Finally, performance of RMBS continues to remain highly dependent
on servicer procedures. Any change resulting from servicing
transfers or other policy or regulatory change can impact the
performance of these transactions. In addition, improvements in
reporting formats and data availability across deals and trustees
may provide better insight into certain performance metrics such as
the level of collateral modifications.
FIRST FRANKLIN 2006-FF17: Moody's Ups Rating on 2 Tranches to Caa1
------------------------------------------------------------------
Moody's Ratings has upgraded the ratings of two bonds issued by
First Franklin Mortgage Loan Trust 2006-FF17. The collateral
backing this deal consists of subprime mortgages.
A List of Affected Credit Ratings is available at
https://urlcurt.com/u?l=tOEnOb
A comprehensive review of all credit ratings for the respective
transaction(s) has been conducted during a rating committee.
The complete rating actions are as follows:
Issuer: First Franklin Mortgage Loan Trust 2006-FF17
Cl. A2, Upgraded to Caa1 (sf); previously on Apr 6, 2010 Downgraded
to Caa3 (sf)
Cl. A5, Upgraded to Caa1 (sf); previously on Jun 14, 2017 Upgraded
to Caa2 (sf)
RATINGS RATIONALE
The rating actions reflect the current levels of credit enhancement
available to the bonds, the recent performance, analysis of the
transaction structures, Moody's updated loss expectations on the
underlying pools and Moody's revised loss-given-default expectation
for each bond.
Each of the bonds experiencing a rating change has either incurred
a missed or delayed disbursement of an interest payment or is
currently, or expected to become, undercollateralized, which may
sometimes be reflected by a reduction in principal (a write-down).
Moody's expectations of loss-given-default assesses losses
experienced and expected future losses as a percent of the original
bond balance.
No actions were taken on the other rated classes in this deal
because their expected losses remain commensurate with their
current ratings, after taking into account the updated performance
information, structural features, credit enhancement and other
qualitative considerations.
Principal Methodology
The principal methodology used in these ratings was "US Residential
Mortgage-backed Securitizations: Surveillance" published in
December 2024.
Factors that would lead to an upgrade or downgrade of the ratings:
Up
Levels of credit protection that are higher than necessary to
protect investors against current expectations of loss could drive
the ratings of the subordinate bonds up. Losses could decline from
Moody's original expectations as a result of a lower number of
obligor defaults or appreciation in the value of the mortgaged
property securing an obligor's promise of payment. Transaction
performance also depends greatly on the US macro economy and
housing market.
Down
Levels of credit protection that are insufficient to protect
investors against current expectations of loss could drive the
ratings down. Losses could rise above Moody's expectations as a
result of a higher number of obligor defaults or deterioration in
the value of the mortgaged property securing an obligor's promise
of payment. Transaction performance also depends greatly on the US
macro economy and housing market. Other reasons for
worse-than-expected performance include poor servicing, error on
the part of transaction parties, inadequate transaction governance
and fraud.
Finally, performance of RMBS continues to remain highly dependent
on servicer procedures. Any change resulting from servicing
transfers or other policy or regulatory change can impact the
performance of these transactions. In addition, improvements in
reporting formats and data availability across deals and trustees
may provide better insight into certain performance metrics such as
the level of collateral modifications.
GREAT LAKES 2014-1: Moody's Ups Rating on $10.5MM F-R Notes to Ba1
------------------------------------------------------------------
Moody's Ratings has assigned a rating to one class of CLO
refinancing notes (collectively, the "Refinancing Debt") issued by
Great Lakes CLO 2014-1, Ltd. (the "Issuer").
Moody's rating action is as follows:
US$24,910,000 Class E-R2 Deferrable Mezzanine Floating Rate Notes
due 2029 (the "Class E-R2 Notes"), Assigned Aaa (sf)
Additionally, Moody's have taken rating action on the following
outstanding notes originally issued by the Issuer on April 25, 2014
(the "Original Closing Date"):
US$10,500,000 Class F-R Deferrable Mezzanine Floating Rate Notes
due 2029 (the "Class F-R Notes"), Upgraded to Ba1 (sf); previously
on June 5, 2025 Upgraded to B1 (sf)
A comprehensive review of all credit ratings for the respective
transactions has been conducted during a rating committee.
RATINGS RATIONALE
The rationale for the ratings is based on Moody's methodologies and
considers all relevant risks particularly those associated with the
CLO's portfolio and structure.
The Issuer is a managed cash flow middle market (MM) CLO. The
issued notes are collateralized primarily by a portfolio of middle
market loans.
BMO Asset Management Corp. (the "Manager") will continue to direct
the selection, acquisition and disposition of the assets on behalf
of the Issuer. The Issuer previously issued five other classes of
secured notes and one class of subordinated notes. While the Class
A-R Notes, Class B-R Notes, Class C-R Notes and Class D-R Notes
have been fully repaid, Class F-R will remain outstanding.
In addition to the issuance of the Refinancing Debt, a variety of
other changes to transaction features will occur in connection with
the refinancing. These include: extension of the Refinancing Notes'
non-call period.
Moody's rating action on the Class F-R Notes is primarily a result
of the refinancing, which increases excess spread available as
credit enhancement to the rated notes.
The upgrade action is also a result of deleveraging of
previously-issued notes and an increase in the transaction's
over-collateralization (OC) ratios since October 2025. The Class
D-R notes have been fully paid down and immediately prior to the
refinancing, Moody's calculates that the Class E-R notes will have
been paid down by approximately 12.60% or $3.59 million since
October 2025. Based on Moody's calculations, the OC ratios for the
Class E-R2 and Class F-R notes are currently 221.63% and 155.91%,
respectively, versus October 2025 levels of 159.53% and 128.61% for
the Class E-R and Class F-R notes, respectively.
Moody's modeled the transaction using a cash flow model based on
the Binomial Expansion Technique, as described in "Collateralized
Loan Obligations" rating methodology published in October 2025.
The key model inputs Moody's used in Moody's analysis, such as par,
weighted average rating factor, diversity score, weighted average
spread, and weighted average recovery rate, are based on Moody's
published methodology and could differ from the trustee's reported
numbers. For modeling purposes, Moody's used the following
base-case assumptions:
Performing par and principal proceeds balance: $50,076,384
Defaulted par: $10,757,622
Diversity Score: 12
Weighted Average Rating Factor (WARF): 6363
Weighted Average Spread (WAS): 5.41%
Weighted Average Recovery Rate (WARR): 48.94%
Weighted Average Life (WAL): 1.3 years
In addition to base case analysis, Moody's ran additional scenarios
where outcomes could diverge from the base case. The additional
scenarios consider one or more factors individually or in
combination, and include: defaults by obligors whose low ratings or
debt prices suggest distress, defaults by obligors with potential
refinancing risk, deterioration in the credit quality of the
underlying portfolio, and lower recoveries on defaulted assets.
Methodology Underlying the Rating Action
The principal methodology used in these ratings was "Collateralized
Loan Obligations" published in October 2025.
Factors That Would Lead to an Upgrade or a Downgrade of the
Ratings:
The performance of the rated notes is subject to uncertainty. The
performance of the rated notes is sensitive to the performance of
the underlying portfolio, which in turn depends on economic and
credit conditions that may change. The Manager's investment
decisions and management of the transaction will also affect the
performance of the rated notes.
GS MORTGAGE 2026-PJ1: Fitch Gives B(EXP) Rating to Class B5 Notes
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned expected ratings to the notes issued by
GS Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust 2026-PJ1 (GSMBS 2026-PJ1).
RATING ACTIONS
Entity/Debt Rating
---------- ------
GSMBS 2026-PJ1
A1 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A10 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A11 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A12 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A13 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A14 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A15 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A16 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A17 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A18 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A19 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A2 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A20 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A21 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A22 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A23 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A24 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A27 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A29 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A3 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A30 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A4 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A5 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A6 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A7 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A8 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A9 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX1 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX10 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX11 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX12 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX13 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX14 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX15 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX16 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX17 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX18 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX19 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX2 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX20 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX21 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX22 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX23 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX24 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX25 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX27 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX28 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX29 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX3 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX30 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX4 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX5 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX6 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX7 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX8 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
AX9 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B1 LT AA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B1A LT AA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B2 LT A(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B2A LT A(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B3 LT BBB-(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B4 LT BB(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B5 LT B(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B6 LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
BX1 LT AA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
BX2 LT A(EXP)sf Expected Rating
R LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
Transaction Summary
The classes are supported by 251 prime loans with a total balance
of approximately $318.6 million as of the cut-off date.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Credit Risk of Mortgage Assets: RMBS transactions are directly
affected by the performance of the underlying residential mortgages
or mortgage-related assets. Fitch analyzes loan-level attributes
and macroeconomic factors to assess the credit risk and expected
losses. GSMBS 2026-PJ1 has a final probability of default (PD) of
10. 05% in the 'AAAsf' rating stress. Fitch's final loss severity
in the 'AAAsf' rating stress is 34. 00%. The expected loss in the
'AAAsf' rating stress is 3. 42% (see Highlights and Asset Analysis
sections for more details).
Structural Analysis: The mortgage cash flow and loss allocation in
GSMBS 2026-PJ1 are based on a senior-subordinate, shifting-interest
structure, whereby the subordinate classes receive only scheduled
principal and are locked out from receiving unscheduled principal
or prepayments for five years.
Fitch analyses the capital structure to determine the adequacy of
the transaction's credit enhancement (CE) to support payments on
the securities under multiple scenarios incorporating Fitch's loss
projections derived from the asset analysis. Fitch applies its
assumptions for defaults, prepayments, delinquencies and interest
rate scenarios. The CE for all ratings was sufficient for the given
rating levels. The CE for a given rating exceeded the expected
losses of that rating stress to address the structures recoupment
of advances and leakage of principal to more subordinate classes.
Operational Risk Analysis: Fitch considers originator and servicer
capability, third-party due diligence results, and the
transaction-specific representation, warranty and enforcement
(RW&E) framework to derive a potential operational risk adjustment.
The only consideration that has a direct impact on Fitch's loss
expectations is due diligence. Third-party due diligence was
performed on 100% of the loans in the transaction by loan count.
Fitch applies a 5bp z-score reduction for loans fully reviewed by a
third-party review (TPR) firm, which have a final grade of either
"A" or "B".
Counterparty and Legal Analysis: Fitch expects all relevant
transaction parties to conform with the requirements described in
its Global Structured Finance Rating Criteria. Relevant parties are
those whose failure to perform could have a material impact on the
performance of the transaction. Additionally, all legal
requirements should be satisfied to fully de-link the transaction
from any other entities. Fitch expects GSMBS 2026-PJ1 to be fully
de-linked and a bankruptcy remote special purpose vehicle (SPV).
All transaction parties and triggers align with Fitch's
expectations.
Rating Cap Analysis: Common rating caps in U.S. RMBS may include,
but are not limited to, new product types with limited or volatile
historical data and transactions with weak operational or
structural/counterparty features. These considerations do not apply
to GSMBS 2026-PJ1, and therefore, Fitch is comfortable assigning
the highest possible rating of 'AAAsf' without any rating caps.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
The defined negative rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
the ratings would react to steeper market value declines (MVDs) at
the national level. The analysis assumes MVDs of 10.0%, 20.0% and
30.0%, in addition to the model projected 37.4% at 'AAA'. The
analysis indicates that there is some potential rating migration
with higher MVDs for all rated classes, compared with the model
projection. Specifically, a 10% additional decline in home prices
would lower all rated classes by one full category.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
The defined positive rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
the ratings would react to positive home price growth of 10% with
no assumed overvaluation. Excluding the senior class, which is
already rated 'AAAsf', the analysis indicates there is potential
positive rating migration for all of the rated classes.
Specifically, a 10% gain in home prices would result in a full
category upgrade for the rated class excluding those being assigned
ratings of 'AAAsf'.
This section provides insight into the model-implied sensitivities
the transaction faces when one assumption is modified, while
holding others equal. The modeling process uses the modification of
these variables to reflect asset performance in up and down
environments. The results should only be considered as one
potential outcome, as the transaction is exposed to multiple
dynamic risk factors. It should not be used as an indicator of
possible future performance.
GS MORTGAGE-BACKED 2026-NQM1: S&P Assigns (P)B Rating on B-2 Certs
------------------------------------------------------------------
S&P Global Ratings assigned its preliminary ratings to GS
Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust 2026-NQM1's mortgage-backed
certificates.
The note issuance is an RMBS transaction backed by first-lien,
fixed-rate, amortizing residential mortgage loans, including
mortgage loans with initial interest-only periods, to both prime
and nonprime borrowers. The loans are secured by single-family
residential properties, townhomes, planned-unit developments,
condominiums, two- to four-family residential properties, and
cooperatives. The pool consists of 1,076 loans backed by 1,076
properties, which are primarily non-qualified mortgage
(non-QM)/ability-to-repay (ATR) compliant and ATR-exempt loans.
The preliminary ratings are based on information as of Jan. 16,
2026. Subsequent information may result in the assignment of final
ratings that differ from the preliminary ratings.
The preliminary ratings reflect:
-- The pool's collateral composition;
-- The transaction's credit enhancement, associated structural
mechanics, representation and warranty framework, and geographic
concentration;
-- The mortgage aggregator and mortgage originators; and
-- S&P said, "Our economic outlook, which considers our current
projections for U.S. economic growth, unemployment rates, and
interest rates, as well as our view of housing fundamentals. Our
economic outlook is updated, if necessary, when these projections
change materially."
Preliminary Ratings Assigned(i)
GS Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust 2026-NQM1
Class A-1FCF, $106,785,000: AAA (sf)
Class A-1LCF, $35,595,000: AAA (sf)
Class A-1A, $122,877,000: AAA (sf)
Class A-1B, $19,505,000: AAA (sf)
Class A-1, $142,382,000: AAA (sf)
Class A-2, $25,161,000: AA (sf)
Class A-3, $37,058,000: A (sf)
Class M-1, $16,578,000: BBB (sf)
Class B-1, $11,898,000: BB (sf)
Class B-2, $9,362,000: B (sf)
Class B-3, $5,266,752: NR
Class X, notional(ii): NR
Class SA, (iii): NR
Class PT, $390,085,752: NR
Class R(iv), not applicable: NR
(i)The preliminary ratings address the ultimate payment of interest
and principal and do not address payment of the cap carryover
amounts.
(ii)The notional amount for the class X certificates equals the
non-retained interest percentage (95%) of the loans' aggregate
unpaid principal balance, initially $390,085,752.
(iii)The initial balance of class SA equals the non-retained
interest percentage of the pre-existing servicing advances as of
the closing date, initially $101,463.00.
(iv)The class R certificates will not have a principal amount and
are the class of certificates representing residual interest in the
issuing entity.
NR--Not rated.
MADISON PARK LXI: Fitch Rates Class E-R Debt 'BBsf'
---------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned ratings and Rating Outlooks to the
Madison Park Funding LXI, Ltd. reset transaction.
RATING ACTIONS
Madison Park Funding LXI, Ltd.
Rating Prior
------ -----
X-R LT AAAsf New Rating
A-R LT NRsf New Rating
B 55822NAE9 LT PIFsf Paid In Full AAsf
B-R LT AAsf New Rating
C 55822NAG4 LT PIFsf Paid In Full Asf
C-R LT Asf New Rating
D 55822NAJ8 LT PIFsf Paid In Full BBB-sf
D-1-R LT BBBsf New Rating
D-2-R LT BBB-sf New Rating
E 55822PAA2 LT PIFsf Paid In Full BBsf
E-R LT BBsf New Rating
F-R LT NRsf New Rating
Transaction Summary
Madison Park Funding LXI, Ltd. (the issuer) is refinancing an
arbitrage cash flow collateralized loan obligation (CLO) that
initially closed in January 2024. This will be the first
refinancing (reset) transaction, and the existing secured notes
will be redeemed in whole on Jan. 12, 2026 from proceeds from the
new secured notes. The transaction will be managed by UBS Asset
Management (Americas) LLC. Net proceeds from the issuance of the
secured and subordinated notes will provide financing on a
portfolio of approximately $425 million of primarily first lien
senior secured leveraged loans.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Asset Credit Quality: The average credit quality of the indicative
portfolio is 'B', which is in line with that of recent CLOs. The
weighted average rating factor (WARF) of the indicative portfolio
is 24.01, and will be managed to a WARF covenant from a Fitch test
matrix. Issuers rated in the 'B' rating category denote a highly
speculative credit quality; however, the notes benefit from
appropriate credit enhancement and standard U.S. CLO structural
features.
Asset Security: The indicative portfolio consists of 97.9%
first-lien senior secured loans. The weighted average recovery rate
(WARR) of the indicative portfolio is 73.93% and will be managed to
a WARR covenant from a Fitch test matrix.
Portfolio Composition: The largest three industries may comprise up
to 39% of the portfolio balance in aggregate while the top five
obligors can represent up to 12.5% of the portfolio balance in
aggregate. The level of diversity resulting from the industry,
obligor and geographic concentrations is in line with other recent
CLOs.
Portfolio Management: The transaction has a five-year reinvestment
period and reinvestment criteria similar to other CLOs. Fitch's
analysis was based on a stressed portfolio created by adjusting the
indicative portfolio to reflect permissible concentration limits
and collateral quality test levels.
Cash Flow Analysis: Fitch used a customized proprietary cash flow
model to replicate the principal and interest waterfalls and assess
the effectiveness of various structural features of the
transaction. In Fitch's stress scenarios, the rated notes can
withstand default and recovery assumptions consistent with their
assigned ratings.
The WAL used for the transaction stress portfolio analysis is 12
months less than the WAL covenant to account for structural and
reinvestment conditions after the reinvestment period. In Fitch's
opinion, these conditions would reduce the effective risk horizon
of the portfolio during stress periods.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
Variability in key model assumptions, such as decreases in recovery
rates and increases in default rates, could result in a downgrade.
Fitch evaluated the notes' sensitivity to potential changes in such
a metric. The results under these sensitivity scenarios are as
severe as between 'BB+sf' and 'A+sf' for class B-R, between 'B+sf'
and 'BBB+sf' for class C-R, between less than 'B-sf' and 'BB+sf'
for class D-1-R between less than 'B-sf' and 'BB+sf' for D-2-R, and
between less than 'B-sf' and 'B+sf' for class E-R.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
Upgrade scenarios are not applicable to the class X notes as these
notes are in the highest rating category of 'AAAsf'.
Variability in key model assumptions, such as increases in recovery
rates and decreases in default rates, could result in an upgrade.
Fitch evaluated the notes' sensitivity to potential changes in such
metrics; the minimum rating results under these sensitivity
scenarios are 'AAAsf' for class B-R, 'AAsf' for class C-R, 'A+sf'
for class D-1-R, 'A-sf' for class D-2-R and 'BBB+sf' for class E-R.
MAN GLG 2018-1: Moody's Cuts Rating on $25MM Class D-R Notes to B1
------------------------------------------------------------------
Moody's Ratings has taken a variety of rating actions on the
following notes issued by Man GLG US CLO 2018-1 Ltd.:
US$32M Class C-R Senior Secured Deferrable Floating Rate Notes,
Upgraded to Aa3 (sf); previously on May 7, 2025 Upgraded to A2
(sf)
US$25M Class D-R Senior Secured Deferrable Floating Rate Notes,
Downgraded to B1 (sf); previously on May 7, 2025 Affirmed Ba3 (sf)
Moody's have also affirmed the ratings on the following notes:
US$56M Class A-2-R (Current outstanding balance US$40,215,455)
Senior Secured Floating Rate Notes, Affirmed Aaa (sf); previously
on May 7, 2025 Affirmed Aaa (sf)
US$30M Class B-R Senior Secured Deferrable Floating Rate Notes,
Affirmed Aaa (sf); previously on May 7, 2025 Upgraded to Aaa (sf)
US$6M Class E-R (Current outstanding balance US$6,196,213) Senior
Secured Deferrable Floating Rate Notes, Affirmed Caa3 (sf);
previously on May 7, 2025 Downgraded to Caa3 (sf)
Man GLG US CLO 2018-1 Ltd., originally issued in April 2015 and
refinanced in March 2018, is a collateralised loan obligation (CLO)
backed by a portfolio of mostly high-yield senior secured US loans.
The portfolio is managed by Silvermine Capital Management LLC. The
transaction's reinvestment period ended in April 2023.
RATINGS RATIONALE
The upgrade on the ratings on the Class C-R notes is primarily a
result of the significant deleveraging of the senior notes
following amortisation of the underlying portfolio since the last
rating action in May 2025.
The Class A-1-R notes have been fully repaid, and the Class A-2-R
notes have been paid down by approximately USD15.8 million (28.2%)
since the last rating action in May 2025. As a result of the
deleveraging, over-collateralisation (OC) has increased for the
senior and mezzanine rated notes. According to the trustee report
dated December 2025[1], the Class A, Class B and Class C OC ratios
are reported at 321.04%, 183.88% and 126.31% compared to April
2025[2] levels of 174.92%, 141.86% and 118.06%, respectively.
The deleveraging and OC improvements primarily resulted from high
prepayment rates of leveraged loans in the underlying portfolio.
Most of the prepaid proceeds have been applied to amortise the
liabilities. All else held equal, such deleveraging is generally a
positive credit driver for the CLO's rated liabilities.
The downgrade to the rating on the Class D-R notes is due to the
deterioration in the credit quality of the underlying collateral
pool and the deterioration in over-collateralisation ratio for the
tranche since the last rating action in May 2025.
The credit quality has deteriorated as reflected in the
deterioration in the average credit rating of the portfolio
(measured by the weighted average rating factor, or WARF) and an
increase in the proportion of securities from issuers with ratings
of Caa1 or lower. According to the trustee report dated December
2025[1], the WARF was 3729, compared with 3432 in April 2025[2].
Securities with ratings of Caa1 or lower currently make up
approximately 21.2% of the underlying portfolio, versus 15.3% in
April 2025[2].
The Class D OC ratio has also deteriorated since the rating action
in May 2025. According to the trustee report dated December
2025[1], the Class D OC ratio is reported at 101.49% compared to
April 2025[2] level of 104.37% and is currently in breach.
The affirmations on the ratings on the Class A-2-R, B-R and E-R
notes are primarily a result of the expected losses on the notes
remaining consistent with their current rating levels, after taking
into account the CLO's latest portfolio, its relevant structural
features and its actual over-collateralisation ratios.
The key model inputs Moody's uses in Moody's analysis, such as par,
weighted average rating factor, diversity score and the weighted
average recovery rate, are based on Moody's published methodology
and could differ from the trustee's reported numbers.
In Moody's base case, Moody's used the following assumptions:
Performing par and principal proceeds balance: USD136.8m
Defaulted Securities: USD0.5m
Diversity Score: 36
Weighted Average Rating Factor (WARF): 3545
Weighted Average Life (WAL): 2.87 years
Weighted Average Spread (WAS) (before accounting for reference rate
floors): 3.24%
Weighted Average Recovery Rate (WARR): 45.52%
Par haircut in OC tests and interest diversion test: 6.59%
The default probability derives from the credit quality of the
collateral pool and Moody's expectations of the remaining life of
the collateral pool. The estimated average recovery rate on future
defaults is based primarily on the seniority of the assets in the
collateral pool. In each case, historical and market performance
and a collateral manager's latitude to trade collateral are also
relevant factors. Moody's incorporates these default and recovery
characteristics of the collateral pool into Moody's cash flow model
analysis, subjecting them to stresses as a function of the target
rating of each CLO liability Moody's are analysing.
Methodology Underlying the Rating Action:
The principal methodology used in these ratings was "Collateralized
Loan Obligations" published in October 2025.
Counterparty Exposure:
The rating action took into consideration the notes' exposure to
relevant counterparties using the methodology "Structured Finance
Counterparty Risks" published in May 2025. Moody's concluded the
ratings of the notes are not constrained by these risks.
Factors that would lead to an upgrade or downgrade of the ratings:
The rated notes' performance is subject to uncertainty. The notes'
performance is sensitive to the performance of the underlying
portfolio, which in turn depends on economic and credit conditions
that may change. The collateral manager's investment decisions and
management of the transaction will also affect the notes'
performance.
Additional uncertainty about performance is due to the following:
-- Portfolio amortisation: The main source of uncertainty in this
transaction is the pace of amortisation of the underlying
portfolio, which can vary significantly depending on market
conditions and have a significant impact on the notes' ratings.
Amortisation could accelerate as a consequence of high loan
prepayment levels or collateral sales by the collateral manager or
be delayed by an increase in loan amend-and-extend restructurings.
Fast amortisation would usually benefit the ratings of the notes
beginning with the notes having the highest prepayment priority.
-- Recovery of defaulted assets: Market value fluctuations in
trustee-reported defaulted assets and those Moody's assumes have
defaulted can result in volatility in the deal's
over-collateralisation levels. Further, the timing of recoveries
and the manager's decision whether to work out or sell defaulted
assets can also result in additional uncertainty. Recoveries higher
than Moody's expectations would have a positive impact on the
notes' ratings.
In addition to the quantitative factors that Moody's explicitly
modelled, qualitative factors are part of the rating committee's
considerations. These qualitative factors include the structural
protections in the transaction, its recent performance given the
market environment, the legal environment, specific documentation
features, the collateral manager's track record and the potential
for selection bias in the portfolio. All information available to
rating committees, including macroeconomic forecasts, input from
Moody's other analytical groups, market factors, and judgments
regarding the nature and severity of credit stress on the
transactions, can influence the final rating decision.
NATIONAL COLLEGIATE 2007-A: Fitch Hikes Rating on C Notes to BBsf
-----------------------------------------------------------------
The upgrade of National Collegiate Trust 2007-A's (NCT 2007-A)
class B and class C bonds reflect the stable asset performance and
the increased credit enhancement (CE) available to the bonds from
the ongoing pro rata amortization of the capital structure.
The affirmation of NCT 2007-A's class A bond incorporates the
stable underlying asset performance coupled with CE levels
commensurate to Fitch's stresses.
The Rating Outlook for all classes of notes is Stable.
RATING ACTIONS
Entity / Debt Rating Prior
------------- ------ -----
The National Collegiate
Trust 2007-A
A 63543YAA5 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
B 63543YAB3 LT Asf Upgrade BBBsf
C 63543YAC1 LT BBsf Upgrade Bsf
Transaction Summary
The affirmation of NCT 2007-A's class A bonds and upgrades of class
B and class C bonds reflects credit enhancement (CE) levels
commensurate to Fitch's stresses at the relevant rating scenarios
and stable asset performance since the last review. Furthermore,
the pool factor of the transaction is low at 4.4%.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Collateral Performance
NCT 2007-A is collateralized by private student loans originated by
Bank of America (AA-/F1+/Stable) under First Marblehead Corp.'s
Gate Program and include origination by CHELA Funding II, LLC.
Fitch has maintained its assumption of the constant default rate at
3.50%. A base-case recovery rate of 30% was assumed for the NCT
2007-A, which was determined to be appropriate based on data
previously provided by the issuer and reflected the guarantee
provided by Bank of America on loans originated pursuant to the
GATE program. With the pool factor reduced to approximately 4.4% of
the initial asset pool balance, negative pool selection risk is
elevated as the remaining collateral continues to amortize.
Payment Structure
CE is provided by overcollateralization (the excess of the trust's
asset balance over the bond balance) and excess spread. For NCT
2007-A, cash is currently being released from the trust as the 104%
parity level required is currently met. Liquidity support is
provided to NCT 2007-A by a reserve account sized at about USD 1
million. In Fitch's view, the available reserve accounts are able
to cover at least one quarter of senior cost and interest
payments.
Operational Capabilities
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency services 100% of
NCT 2007-A. Fitch believes the servicer is an acceptable servicer
of private student loans.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
NCT 2007-A
Current Ratings: 'AAAsf'/'BBBsf'/'Bsf'.
Expected model-implied rating impact on the note rating of
increased defaults (class A/B/C):
--Increase base case defaults by 10%: 'AAAsf'/'Asf'/'BBsf';
--Increase base case defaults by 25%: 'AAAsf'/'Asf'/'BBsf';
--Increase base case defaults by 50%: 'AAAsf'/'Asf'/'BBsf'.
Expected impact on the note rating of reduced recoveries (class
A/B/C):
--Reduce base case recoveries by 10%: 'AAAsf'/'Asf'/'BBsf';
--Reduce base case recoveries by 20%: 'AAAsf'/'Asf'/'BBsf';
--Reduce base case recoveries by 30%: 'AAAsf'/'Asf'/'BBsf'.
Expected impact on the note rating of increased defaults and
reduced recoveries (class A/B/C):
--Increase base case defaults and reduce base case recoveries each
by 10%: 'AAAsf'/'Asf'/'BBsf';
--Increase base case defaults and reduce base case recoveries each
by 25%: 'AAAsf'/'Asf'/'BBsf';
--Increase base case defaults and reduce base case recoveries each
by 50%: 'AAAsf'/'Asf'/'BBsf'.
For all above sensitivities, the model-implied ratings are capped
at the current ratings.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
NCT 2007-A
Current Ratings: 'AAAsf'/'BBBsf'/'Bsf'.
--Decrease base case defaults by 50%: 'AAAsf'/'AAAsf'/'AAAsf';
--Increase base case recoveries by 30%: 'AAAsf'/'AAAsf'/'Asf';
--Decrease base case defaults and increase base case recoveries
each by 50%: 'AAAsf'/'AAAsf'/'AAAsf'.
Sensitivities are capped at current ratings.
NEW RESIDENTIAL 2026-NQM1: Fitch Rates Class B1 Notes 'BB-(EXP)'
----------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned expected ratings to the mortgage-backed
notes issued by New Residential Mortgage Loan Trust 2026-NQM1
(NRMLT 2026-NQM1).
RATING ACTIONS
Entity/Debt Rating
----------- ------
NRMLT 2026-NQM1
A1FCF LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A1LCF LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A1A LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A1B LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A1 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A2 LT AA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A3 LT A(EXP)sf Expected Rating
M1 LT BBB-(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B1 LT BB-(EXP)sf Expected Rating
Transaction Summary
The transaction is expected to close on Jan. 29, 2026. The notes
are supported by 1,014 nonprime loans that were primarily
originated by Newrez LLC and Caliber Home Loans, Inc., with a total
balance of approximately $502.1 million as of the cutoff date.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Credit Risk of Mortgage Assets (Positive): RMBS transactions are
directly affected by the performance of the underlying residential
mortgages or mortgage-related assets. Fitch analyzes loan-level
attributes and macroeconomic factors to assess the credit risk and
expected losses. NRMLT 2026-NQM1 has a final probability of default
(PD) of 36.9% in the 'AAAsf' rating stress. Fitch's final loss
severity in the 'AAAsf' rating stress is 40.7%. The expected loss
in the 'AAAsf' rating stress is 15.0%.
Structural Analysis (Positive): The mortgage cash flow and loss
allocation in NRMLT 2026-NQM1 are based on a modified sequential
structure, whereby the principal is distributed pro rata among the
senior certificates while subordinate bonds are shut out from
principal until all senior classes are reduced to zero. If a
cumulative loss trigger event or delinquency trigger event occurs
in a given period, principal will be distributed sequentially to
notes of the A-1 classes, A-2 class and A-3 class until they are
reduced to zero.
The A-1 classes will receive interest and principal payments among
themselves either pro rata or sequentially, depending on which
combination of the A-1 classes is outstanding.
Fitch analyzes the capital structure to determine the adequacy of
the transaction's credit enhancement (CE) to support payments on
the securities under multiple scenarios incorporating Fitch's loss
projections derived from the asset analysis. Fitch applies its
assumptions for defaults, prepayments, delinquencies and interest
rate scenarios. The CE for all ratings was sufficient for the given
rating levels.
The CE for a given rating exceeded the expected losses of that
rating stress to address the structure's recoupment of advances and
leakage of principal to more subordinate classes (please see the
Cash Flow Analysis section for more details).
Operational Risk Analysis (Positive): Fitch considers originator
and servicer capability, third-party due diligence results, and the
transaction-specific representation, warranty and enforcement
(RW&E) framework to derive a potential operational risk adjustment.
The only consideration that has a direct impact on Fitch's loss
expectations is due diligence. Third-party due diligence was
performed on 100.0% of the loans in the transaction. Fitch applies
a 5-bp reduction for loans fully reviewed by a third-party review
(TPR) firm that has a final grade of either A or B.
Counterparty and Legal Analysis (Neutral): Fitch expects all
relevant transaction parties to conform with the requirements
described in its "Global Structured Finance Rating Criteria."
Relevant parties are those whose failure to perform could have a
material outcome on the performance of the transaction. In
addition, all legal requirements should be satisfied to fully
de-link the transaction from any other entities. Fitch expects
NRMLT 2026-NQM1 to be fully de-linked and a bankruptcy-remote,
special-purpose vehicle (SPV). All transaction parties and triggers
align with Fitch's expectations.
Rating Cap Analysis: Common rating caps in U.S. RMBS may include,
but are not limited to, new product types with limited or volatile
historical data and transactions with weak operational or
structural/counterparty features. These considerations do not apply
to NRMLT NRMLT 2026-NQM1 and, therefore, Fitch is comfortable
rating to the highest possible rating at 'AAAsf' without any rating
caps.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
The defined negative rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
the ratings would react to steeper market value declines (MVDs) at
the national level. The analysis assumes MVDs of 10.0%, 20.0% and
30.0%, in addition to the model projected 37.8% at 'AAA'. The
analysis indicates that there is some potential rating migration
with higher MVDs for all rated classes, compared with the model
projection. Specifically, a 10% additional decline in home prices
would lower all rated classes by one full category.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
The defined positive rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
the ratings would react to positive home price growth of 10% with
no assumed overvaluation. Excluding the senior class, which is
already rated 'AAAsf', the analysis indicates there is potential
positive rating migration for all the rated classes. Specifically,
a 10% gain in home prices would result in a full category upgrade
for the rated class excluding those being assigned ratings of
'AAAsf'.
This section provides insight into the model-implied sensitivities
the transaction faces when one assumption is modified, while
holding others equal. The modeling process uses the modification of
these variables to reflect asset performance in up and down
environments. The results should only be considered as one
potential outcome, as the transaction is exposed to multiple
dynamic risk factors. It should not be used as an indicator of
possible future performance.
OCEAN TRAILS CLO XV: Fitch Rates Class E-R Debt 'BBsf'
------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned ratings and Rating Outlooks to the Ocean
Trails CLO XV Ltd reset transaction.
RATING ACTIONS
Entity / Debt Rating
------------- ------
Ocean Trails CLO XV Ltd
Class A-R 67515BAN2 LT NRsf New Rating
Class B-R 67515BAQ5 LT AAsf New Rating
Class C-R 67515BAS1 LT Asf New Rating
Class D-1R 67515BAU6 LT BBB-sf New Rating
Class D-2R 67515BAW2 LT BBB-sf New Rating
Class E-R 67515CAE0 LT BBsf New Rating
Class F-R 67515CAG5 LT NRsf New Rating
Subordinated Notes
67515CAC4 LT NRsf New Rating
Transaction Summary
Ocean Trails CLO XV Ltd (the issuer) is an arbitrage cash flow
collateralized loan obligation (CLO) managed by Five Arrows
Managers North America LLC. The original CLO, closed in February
2024 and was not rated by Fitch. On Jan. 15, 2026, the CLOs
existing secured notes will be redeemed in full from refinancing
proceeds. The secured and subordinated notes will provide financing
on a portfolio of approximately $450 million of primarily first
lien senior secured leveraged loans.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Asset Credit Quality: The average credit quality of the indicative
portfolio is 'B', which is in line with that of recent CLOs.
Issuers rated in the 'B' rating category denote a highly
speculative credit quality; however, the notes benefit from
appropriate credit enhancement and standard CLO structural
features.
Asset Security: The indicative portfolio consists of 96.3% first
lien senior secured loans and has a weighted average recovery
assumption of 72.33%. Fitch stressed the indicative portfolio by
assuming a higher portfolio concentration of assets with lower
recovery prospects and further reduced recovery assumptions for
higher rating stresses.
Portfolio Composition: The largest three industries may comprise up
to 40% of the portfolio balance in aggregate while the top five
obligors can represent up to 12.5% of the portfolio balance in
aggregate. The level of diversity required by industry, obligor and
geographic concentrations is in line with that of other recent
CLOs.
Portfolio Management: The transaction has a five-year reinvestment
period and reinvestment criteria similar to other CLOs. Fitch's
analysis was based on a stressed portfolio created by adjusting the
indicative portfolio to reflect permissible concentration limits
and collateral quality test levels.
Cash Flow Analysis: Fitch used a customized proprietary cash flow
model to replicate the principal and interest waterfalls and assess
the effectiveness of various structural features of the
transaction. In Fitch's stress scenarios, the rated notes can
withstand default and recovery assumptions consistent with their
assigned ratings.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
Variability in key model assumptions, such as decreases in recovery
rates and increases in default rates, could result in a downgrade.
Fitch evaluated the notes' sensitivity to potential changes in such
a metric. The results under these sensitivity scenarios are as
severe as between 'BB+sf' and 'A+sf' for class B-R, between 'B+sf'
and 'BBB+sf' for class C-R, between less than 'B-sf' and 'BB+sf'
for class D-1R, between less than 'B-sf' and 'BB+sf' for class
D-2R, and between less than 'B-sf' and 'B+sf' for class E-R.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
Variability in key model assumptions, such as increases in recovery
rates and decreases in default rates, could result in an upgrade.
Fitch evaluated the notes' sensitivity to potential changes in such
metrics; the minimum rating results under these sensitivity
scenarios are 'AAAsf' for class B-R, 'AAsf' for class C-R, 'A+sf'
for class D-1R, 'Asf' for class D-2R and 'BBB+sf' for class E-R.
OCEAN TRAILS XV: Moody's Assigns B3 Rating to $500,000 F-R Notes
----------------------------------------------------------------
Moody's Ratings has assigned ratings to two classes of CLO
refinancing notes issued by Ocean Trails CLO XV Ltd (the Issuer):
US$278,650,000 Class A-R Floating Rate Notes due 2039, Assigned Aaa
(sf)
US$500,000 Class F-R Deferrable Floating Rate Notes due 2039,
Assigned B3 (sf)
The notes listed are referred to herein, collectively, as the
Refinancing Notes.
RATINGS RATIONALE
The rationale for the ratings is based on Moody's methodologies and
considers all relevant risks particularly those associated with the
CLO's portfolio and structure.
The Issuer is a managed cash flow collateralized loan obligation
(CLO). The issued notes are collateralized primarily by a portfolio
of broadly syndicated senior secured corporate loans. At least
92.5% of the portfolio must consist of first lien senior secured
loans and up to 7.5% of the portfolio may consist of second lien
loans and unsecured loans.
Five Arrows Managers North America LLC (the Manager) will continue
to direct the selection, acquisition and disposition of the assets
on behalf of the Issuer and may engage in trading activity,
including discretionary trading, during the transaction's extended
five year reinvestment period. Thereafter, subject to certain
restrictions, the Manager may reinvest unscheduled principal
payments and proceeds from sales of credit risk assets.
In addition to the issuance of the Refinancing Notes, the other
classes of secured notes and additional subordinated notes, a
variety of other changes to transaction features will occur in
connection with the refinancing. These include: reinstatement and
extension of the reinvestment period; extensions of the stated
maturity and non-call period; changes to certain collateral quality
tests; changes to the overcollateralization test levels; and
changes to the base matrix and modifiers.
Moody's modeled the transaction using a cash flow model based on
the Binomial Expansion Technique, as described in the
"Collateralized Loan Obligations" rating methodology published in
October 2025.
The key model inputs Moody's used in Moody's analysis, such as par,
weighted average rating factor, diversity score and weighted
average recovery rate, are based on v published methodology and
could differ from the trustee's reported numbers. For modeling
purposes, Moody's used the following base-case assumptions:
Portfolio par: $449,696,007
Diversity Score: 80
Weighted Average Rating Factor (WARF): 3121
Weighted Average Spread (WAS): 3.07%
Weighted Average Recovery Rate (WARR): 46.00%
Weighted Average Life (WAL): 8.0 years
Methodology Underlying the Rating Action
The principal methodology used in these ratings was "Collateralized
Loan Obligations" published in October 2025.
Factors That Would Lead to an Upgrade or a Downgrade of the
Ratings:
The performance of the Refinancing Notes is subject to uncertainty.
The performance of the Refinancing Notes is sensitive to the
performance of the underlying portfolio, which in turn depends on
economic and credit conditions that may change. The Manager's
investment decisions and management of the transaction will also
affect the performance of the Refinancing Notes.
OZLM LTD VI: Moody's Affirms Ba3 Rating on $33MM Class D-S Notes
----------------------------------------------------------------
Moody's Ratings has upgraded the rating on the following notes
issued by OZLM VI, Ltd.:
US$37.5 million Class C-T Senior Secured Deferrable Floating Rate
Notes, Upgraded to Aa1 (sf); previously on Jun 16, 2025 Upgraded
to A1 (sf)
Moody's have also affirmed the ratings on the following notes:
US$41 million (Current outstanding balance US$39,771,308) Class
A-2a-T Senior Secured Floating Rate Notes, Affirmed Aaa (sf);
previously on Jun 16, 2025 Affirmed Aaa (sf)
US$13 million (Current outstanding balance US$12,610,415) Class
A-2b-S Senior Secured Fixed Rate Notes, Affirmed Aaa (sf);
previously on Jun 16, 2025 Affirmed Aaa (sf)
US$20.5 million Class B-1-T Senior Secured Deferrable Floating
Rate Notes, Affirmed Aaa (sf); previously on Jun 16, 2025
Upgraded to Aaa (sf)
US$17 million Class B-2-S Senior Secured Deferrable Fixed Rate
Notes, Affirmed Aaa (sf); previously on Jun 16, 2025 Upgraded
to Aaa (sf)
US$33 million Class D-S Secured Deferrable Floating Rate Notes,
Affirmed Ba3 (sf); previously on Jun 16, 2025 Affirmed Ba3 (sf)
US$14.4 million Class E-S Secured Deferrable Floating Rate
Notes, Affirmed Caa3 (sf); previously on Jun 16, 2025 Affirmed
Caa3 (sf)
OZLM VI, Ltd., which was originally issued in April 2014 and
subsequently refinanced most recently in June 2024, is a
collateralised loan obligation (CLO) backed by a portfolio of
mostly high-yield senior secured US loans. The portfolio is managed
by Sculptor Loan Management LP. The transaction's reinvestment
period ended in April 2023.
RATINGS RATIONALE
The rating upgrade on the Class C-T notes is primarily a result of
the deleveraging of the senior notes following amortisation of the
underlying portfolio since the last rating action in June 2025.
The affirmations on the ratings on the Class A-2a-T, A-2b-S, B-1-T,
B-2-S, D-S and E-S notes are primarily a result of the expected
losses on the notes remaining consistent with their current rating
levels, after taking into account the CLO's latest portfolio, its
relevant structural features and its actual over-collateralisation
ratios.
The Class A-1-T notes have been fully repaid after paying down
USD75.2 million (29.2%) since the last rating action in June 2025
and USD257.3 million (100.0%) since closing. In addition, the Class
A-2a-T and the Class A-2b-S notes have paid down USD1.2 million and
USD0.4 million, respectively, since the last rating action. As a
result of the deleveraging, over-collateralisation (OC) has
increased. According to the trustee report dated December 2025[1]
the Class A, Class B and Class C OC ratios are reported at 320.8%,
186.9% and 131.9% compared to May 2025[2] levels of 193.48%,
149.94% and 122.40%, respectively.
The deleveraging and OC improvements primarily resulted from high
prepayment rates of leveraged loans in the underlying portfolio.
Most of the prepaid proceeds have been applied to amortise the
liabilities. All else held equal, such deleveraging is generally a
positive credit driver for the CLO's rated liabilities.
The key model inputs Moody's uses in Moody's analysis, such as par,
weighted average rating factor, diversity score and the weighted
average recovery rate, are based on Moody's published methodology
and could differ from the trustee's reported numbers.
In Moody's base case, Moody's used the following assumptions:
Performing par and principal proceeds balance: USD177.3m
Defaulted Securities: USD941k
Diversity Score: 46
Weighted Average Rating Factor (WARF): 3467
Weighted Average Life (WAL): 2.9 years
Weighted Average Spread (WAS) (before accounting for reference rate
floors): 3.33%
Weighted Average Recovery Rate (WARR): 45.31%
Par haircut in OC tests and interest diversion test: 6.21%
The default probability derives from the credit quality of the
collateral pool and Moody's expectations of the remaining life of
the collateral pool. The estimated average recovery rate on future
defaults is based primarily on the seniority of the assets in the
collateral pool. In each case, historical and market performance
and a collateral manager's latitude to trade collateral are also
relevant factors. Moody's incorporates these default and recovery
characteristics of the collateral pool into Moody's cash flow model
analysis, subjecting them to stresses as a function of the target
rating of each CLO liability it is analysing.
Methodology Underlying the Rating Action:
The principal methodology used in these ratings was "Collateralized
Loan Obligations" published in October 2025.
Counterparty Exposure:
The rating action took into consideration the notes' exposure to
relevant counterparties using the methodology "Structured Finance
Counterparty Risks" published in May 2025. Moody's concluded the
ratings of the notes are not constrained by these risks.
Factors that would lead to an upgrade or downgrade of the ratings:
The rated notes' performance is subject to uncertainty. The notes'
performance is sensitive to the performance of the underlying
portfolio, which in turn depends on economic and credit conditions
that may change. The collateral manager's investment decisions and
management of the transaction will also affect the notes'
performance.
Additional uncertainty about performance is due to the following:
-- Portfolio amortisation: The main source of uncertainty in this
transaction is the pace of amortisation of the underlying
portfolio, which can vary significantly depending on market
conditions and have a significant impact on the notes' ratings.
Amortisation could accelerate as a consequence of high loan
prepayment levels or collateral sales by the collateral manager or
be delayed by an increase in loan amend-and-extend restructurings.
Fast amortisation would usually benefit the ratings of the notes
beginning with the notes having the highest prepayment priority.
-- Recovery of defaulted assets: Market value fluctuations in
trustee-reported defaulted assets and those Moody's assumes have
defaulted can result in volatility in the deal's
over-collateralisation levels. Further, the timing of recoveries
and the manager's decision whether to work out or sell defaulted
assets can also result in additional uncertainty. Moody's analysed
defaulted recoveries assuming the lower of the market price or the
recovery rate to account for potential volatility in market prices.
Recoveries higher than Moody's expectations would have a positive
impact on the notes' ratings.
In addition to the quantitative factors that Moody's explicitly
modelled, qualitative factors are part of the rating committee's
considerations. These qualitative factors include the structural
protections in the transaction, its recent performance given the
market environment, the legal environment, specific documentation
features, the collateral manager's track record and the potential
for selection bias in the portfolio. All information available to
rating committees, including macroeconomic forecasts, input from
Moody's other analytical groups, market factors, and judgments
regarding the nature and severity of credit stress on the
transactions, can influence the final rating decision.
PMT LOAN 2026-INV1: Moody's Assigns B3 Rating on Cl. B-5 Certs
--------------------------------------------------------------
Moody's Ratings has assigned definitive ratings to 56 classes of
residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) issued by PMT Loan
Trust 2026-INV1, and sponsored by PennyMac Corp.
The securities are backed by a pool of GSE-eligible residential
mortgages aggregated, originated and serviced by PennyMac Corp.
The complete rating actions are as follows:
Issuer: PMT Loan Trust 2026-INV1
Cl. A-1, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-2, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-3, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-4, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-5, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-6, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-7, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-8, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-9, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-10, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-11, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-12, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-13, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-14, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-15, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-16, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-17, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-18, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-19, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-20, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-21, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-22, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-23, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-24, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-25, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-26, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-27, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-28, Definitive Rating Assigned Aa1 (sf)
Cl. A-29, Definitive Rating Assigned Aa1 (sf)
Cl. A-30, Definitive Rating Assigned Aa1 (sf)
Cl. A-31, Definitive Rating Assigned Aa1 (sf)
Cl. A-32, Definitive Rating Assigned Aa1 (sf)
Cl. A-33, Definitive Rating Assigned Aa1 (sf)
Cl. A-34, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-34X*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-35, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-35X*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-36, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-36X*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-X1*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aa1 (sf)
Cl. A-X3*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-X6*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-X9*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-X12*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-X15*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-X18*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-X21*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-X24*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-X27*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aaa (sf)
Cl. A-X30*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aa1 (sf)
Cl. A-X33*, Definitive Rating Assigned Aa1 (sf)
Cl. B-1, Definitive Rating Assigned Aa3 (sf)
Cl. B-2, Definitive Rating Assigned A3 (sf)
Cl. B-3, Definitive Rating Assigned Baa3 (sf)
Cl. B-4, Definitive Rating Assigned Ba3 (sf)
Cl. B-5, Definitive Rating Assigned B3 (sf)
*Reflects Interest-Only Classes
Moody's are withdrawing the provisional ratings for the Class A-1A
Loans, assigned on January 08, 2026, because the Class A-1A Loans
were not funded on the closing date.
RATINGS RATIONALE
The ratings are based on the credit quality of the mortgage loans,
the structural features of the transaction, the origination quality
and the servicing arrangement, the third-party review, and the
representations and warranties framework.
Moody's expected loss for this pool in a baseline scenario-mean is
0.69%, in a baseline scenario-median is 0.41% and reaches 7.17% at
a stress level consistent with Moody's Aaa ratings.
PRINCIPAL METHODOLOGIES
The principal methodology used in rating all classes except
interest-only classes was "US Residential Mortgage-backed
Securitizations" published in August 2025.
Factors that would lead to an upgrade or downgrade of the ratings:
Up
Levels of credit protection that are higher than necessary to
protect investors against current expectations of loss could drive
the ratings up. Losses could decline from Moody's original
expectations as a result of a lower number of obligor defaults or
appreciation in the value of the mortgaged property securing an
obligor's promise of payment. Transaction performance also depends
greatly on the US macro economy and housing market.
Down
Levels of credit protection that are insufficient to protect
investors against current expectations of loss could drive the
ratings down. Losses could rise above Moody's original expectations
as a result of a higher number of obligor defaults or deterioration
in the value of the mortgaged property securing an obligor's
promise of payment. Transaction performance also depends greatly on
the US macro economy and housing market. Other reasons for
worse-than-expected performance include poor servicing, error on
the part of transaction parties, inadequate transaction governance
and fraud.
Finally, performance of RMBS continues to remain highly dependent
on servicer procedures. Any change resulting from servicing
transfers or other policy or regulatory change can impact the
performance of these transactions. In addition, improvements in
reporting formats and data availability across deals and trustees
may provide better insight into certain performance metrics such as
the level of collateral modifications.
RCKT MORTGAGE 2026-CES1: Fitch Gives B(EXP) Rating to 4 Classes
---------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned expected ratings to the residential
mortgage-backed notes issued by RCKT Mortgage Trust 2026-CES1 (RCKT
2026-CES1).
RATING ACTIONS
Entity/Debt Rating
----------- -----
RCKT 2026-CES1
A-1A LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A1-B LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-2 LT AA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-3 LT A(EXP)sf Expected Rating
M-1A LT BBB(EXP)sf Expected Rating
M-1B LT BBB-(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-1 LT BB(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-2 LT B(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-3 LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-1 LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-4 LT AA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-5 LT A(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-6 LT BBB(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-1A LT BB(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-X-1A LT BB(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-1B LT BB(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-X-1B LT BB(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-2A LT B(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-X-2A LT B(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-2B LT B(EXP)sf Expected Rating
B-X-2B LT B(EXP)sf Expected Rating
XS LT NR(EXP)sf Expected Rating
A-1L LT AAA(EXP)sf Expected Rating
Transaction Summary
The notes are supported by 5,839 closed-end second lien (CES) loans
with a total balance of approximately $548 million as of the cutoff
date. The pool consists of CES mortgages acquired by Woodward
Capital Management LLC from Rocket Mortgage, LLC. Distributions of
principal and interest (P&I) and loss allocations are based on a
traditional senior-subordinate, sequential structure in which
excess cash flow can be used to repay losses or net weighted
average coupon (WAC) shortfalls.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Credit Risk of Mortgage Assets (Positive): RMBS transactions
are directly affected by the performance of the underlying
residential mortgages or mortgage-related assets. Fitch analyzes
loan-level attributes and macroeconomic factors to assess the
credit risk and expected losses. RCKT 2026-CES1 has a Final PD of
18.4% in the 'AAA' rating stress. Fitch's Final Loss Severity in
the 'AAAsf' rating stress is 98.3%. The expected loss in the
'AAAsf' rating stress is 18.1%.
Structural Analysis (Positive): The mortgage cash flow and loss
allocation in RCKT 2026-CES1 are based on a sequential payment
structure, where principal is used to pay down the bonds
sequentially and losses are allocated reverse sequentially. Monthly
excess cash flow, derived after the allocation of interest and
principal payments, can be used as principal first to repay any
current or previously allocated cumulative applied realized losses
and then to repay potential net WAC shortfalls. The senior classes
incorporate a step-up coupon of 1.00% (to the extent still
outstanding) after the 48th payment date.
Fitch analyses the capital structure to determine the adequacy of
the transaction's credit enhancement (CE) to support payments on
the securities under multiple scenarios incorporating Fitch's loss
projections derived from the asset analysis. Fitch applies its
assumptions for defaults, prepayments, delinquencies and interest
rate scenarios. The credit enhancement for all ratings were
sufficient for the given rating levels. The credit enhancement for
a given rating exceeded the expected losses of that rating stress
to address the structures recoupment of advances and leakage of
principal to more subordinate classes.
Operational Risk Analysis: Fitch considers originator and servicer
capability, third-party due diligence results, and the
transaction-specific representation, warranty and enforcement
(RW&E) framework to derive a potential operational risk adjustment.
The only consideration that has a direct impact on Fitch's loss
expectations is due diligence. Third-party due diligence was
performed on 24.9% of the loans in the transaction. Fitch applies a
5-bp z-score reduction for loans fully reviewed by the TPR firm and
have a final grade of either A or B.
Counterparty and Legal Analysis: Fitch expects all relevant
transaction parties to conform with the requirements described in
its "Global Structured Finance Rating Criteria." Relevant parties
are those whose failure to perform could have a material outcome on
the performance of the transaction. In addition, all legal
requirements should be satisfied to fully de-link the transaction
from any other entities. Fitch expects RCKT 2026-CES1 to be a fully
de-linked and bankruptcy-remote SPV. All transaction parties and
triggers align with Fitch expectations.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
The defined negative rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
the ratings would react to steeper market value declines (MVDs) at
the national level. The analysis assumes MVDs of 10.0%, 20.0% and
30.0%, in addition to the model projected 37.9% at 'AAA'. The
analysis indicates that there is some potential rating migration
with higher MVDs for all rated classes, compared with the model
projection. Specifically, a 10% additional decline in home prices
would lower all rated classes by one full category.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
The defined positive rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
the ratings would react to positive home price growth of 10% with
no assumed overvaluation. Excluding the senior class, which is
already rated 'AAAsf', the analysis indicates there is potential
positive rating migration for all the rated classes. Specifically,
a 10% gain in home prices would result in a full category upgrade
for the rated class excluding those being assigned ratings of
'AAAsf'.
This section provides insight into the model-implied sensitivities
the transaction faces when one assumption is modified, while
holding others equal. The modeling process uses the modification of
these variables to reflect asset performance in up and down
environments. The results should only be considered as one
potential outcome, as the transaction is exposed to multiple
dynamic risk factors. It should not be used as an indicator of
possible future performance.
SILVER POINT 15: Moody's Assigns (P)B3 Rating to $250,000 F Notes
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Moody's Ratings has assigned provisional ratings to two classes of
notes to be issued and one class of loans to be incurred by Silver
Point CLO 15, Ltd. (the Issuer or Silver Point CLO 15):
Up to US$320,000,000 Class A Secured Floating Rate Notes due 2039,
Assigned (P)Aaa (sf)
US$50,000,000 Class A-L Loans maturing 2039, Assigned (P)Aaa (sf)
US$250,000 Class F Secured Deferrable Floating Rate Notes due 2039,
Assigned (P)B3 (sf)
The notes and loans listed are referred to herein, collectively, as
the Rated Debt.
On the closing date, the Class A Notes and the Class A-L Loans have
a principal balance of $270,000,000 and $50,000,000, respectively.
At any time, the Class A-L Loans may be converted, in whole or in
part, into Class A Notes, thereby decreasing the principal balance
of the Class A-L Loans and increasing the principal balance of the
Class A Notes by the corresponding amount. The aggregate principal
balance of the Class A Notes and Class A-L Loans will not exceed
$320,000,000 less the amount of any principal repayments.
RATINGS RATIONALE
The rationale for the ratings is based on Moody's methodologies and
considers all relevant risks, particularly those associated with
the CLO's portfolio and structure.
Silver Point CLO 15 is a managed cash flow CLO. The issued notes
will be collateralized primarily by broadly syndicated senior
secured corporate loans. At least 90% of the portfolio must consist
of first lien senior secured loans and up to 10% of the portfolio
may consist of assets that are not senior secured loans or eligible
investments. Moody's expects the portfolio to be approximately 100%
ramped as of the closing date.
Silver Point CLO Equity Fund II Manager, LLC (the Manager) will
direct the selection, acquisition and disposition of the assets on
behalf of the Issuer and may engage in trading activity, including
discretionary trading, during the transaction's five year
reinvestment period. Thereafter, subject to certain restrictions,
the Manager may reinvest unscheduled principal payments and
proceeds from sales of credit risk assets.
In addition to the Rated Debt, the Issuer will issue six other
classes of secured notes and one class of subordinated notes.
The transaction incorporates interest and par coverage tests which,
if triggered, divert interest and principal proceeds to pay down
the notes in order of seniority.
Moody's modeled the transaction using a cash flow model based on
the Binomial Expansion Technique, as described in the
"Collateralized Loan Obligations" rating methodology published in
October 2025.
For modeling purposes, Moody's used the following base-case
assumptions:
Par amount: $500,000,000
Diversity Score: 70
Weighted Average Rating Factor (WARF): 2948
Weighted Average Spread (WAS): 2.90%
Weighted Average Recovery Rate (WARR): 45.00%
Weighted Average Life (WAL): 8 years
Methodology Underlying the Rating Action
The principal methodology used in these ratings was "Collateralized
Loan Obligations" published in October 2025.
Factors That Would Lead to an Upgrade or Downgrade of the Ratings:
The performance of the Rated Debt is subject to uncertainty. The
performance of the Rated Debt is sensitive to the performance of
the underlying portfolio, which in turn depends on economic and
credit conditions that may change. The Manager's investment
decisions and management of the transaction will also affect the
performance of the Rated Debt.
VERDELITE STATIC 2024-1: Fitch Affirms BB+ Rating on Class E Notes
------------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has upgraded Verdelite Static CLO 2024-1 Ltd.'s class
B notes from 'AA' to 'AA+' and affirmed the class A, C, D, and E
notes. Fitch has assigned a Positive Outlook to the class B notes
and revised the Outlook on the class C notes to Positive from
Stable. The Outlooks on the other rated notes are Stable.
RATING ACTIONS
Entity / Debt Rating Prior
------------- ------ -----
Verdelite Static CLO 2024-1, Ltd.
A 92338VAA9 LT AAAsf Affirmed AAAsf
B 92338VAC5 LT AA+sf Upgrade AAsf
C 92338VAE1 LT Asf Affirmed Asf
D 92338VAG6 LT BBB+sf Affirmed BBB+sf
E 92338WAA7 LT BB+sf Affirmed BB+sf
Transaction Summary
Verdelite Static CLO 2024-1, Ltd. is a broadly syndicated
collateralized loan obligation (CLO) managed by BCRED Verdelite JV
LP. The transaction is a static CLO that originally closed in July
2024 and is secured by first lien, senior secured leveraged loans.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Increased Credit Enhancement from Note Amortization
The upgrade to the class B notes and Positive Outlooks are driven
by the note amortization of the class A notes, which resulted in
increased credit enhancement levels and break-even default rate
(BEDR) cushions against relevant rating stress default levels. As
of December 2025 reporting, approximately 22.1% of the class A
notes had amortized since the last review in April 2025, bringing
cumulative amortization to 30.5% of the original class A note
balance.
Updated Cash Flow Analysis
While class B and C notes' Model Implied Ratings (MIRs) are one
notch higher than the notes' current ratings, the BEDR cushions at
the MIR levels based on the stressed portfolio were not considered
sufficiently robust for further upgrades. However, the Positive
Outlooks on the class B and C notes indicate a potential upgrade if
amortization continues and decline in the credit quality remains
limited.
The rating actions for the class A, D, and E notes are in line with
their MIRs. The Stable Outlooks on the class A, D, and E notes
reflect Fitch's expectation that the notes have sufficient level of
credit protection to withstand potential deterioration in the
credit quality of the portfolios in stress scenarios commensurate
with each class's rating.
Fitch conducted an updated cash flow analysis based on a stressed
portfolio that assumed a one-notch downgrade on the Fitch Issuer
Default Rating Equivalency Rating for assets with a Negative
Outlook on the driving rating of the obligor. The portfolio
weighted average life was also extended to 4.6 years.
Increasing Concentration and Stable Credit Quality
The deleveraging is accompanied by increasing portfolio
concentration, with the most recent portfolio consisting of 190
obligors with the largest 10 obligors representing 11.6% of the
portfolio, compared to 230 obligors and 9.8%, respectively, at last
review.
The credit quality of the portfolio has remained stable at a Fitch
weighted average rating factor of 24.8 (B/B- rating level) since
closing. Exposure to issuers with a Negative Outlook has grown to
13.4% from 11.0%; the current exposure to Fitch's watchlist
increased from to 4.7% from 3.8%. The underlying portfolio spread
declined slightly to 3.0% from 3.1% since last review.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
-- Downgrades may occur if realized and projected losses of the
portfolio are higher than what was assumed at closing and the
notes' credit enhancement do not compensate for the higher loss
expectation than initially assumed;
-- A 25% increase of the mean default rate across all ratings,
along with a 25% decrease of the recovery rate at all rating
levels for the current portfolio, would lead to downgrades of
up to three notches lower, based on MIRs.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
-- Except for the tranches already at the highest 'AAAsf' rating,
upgrades may occur in the event of better-than-expected
portfolio credit quality and transaction performance;
-- A 25% reduction of the mean default rate across all ratings,
along with a 25% increase of the recovery rate at all rating
levels for the current portfolio, would lead to upgrades of up
to four notches higher, based on MIRs.
VERUS SECURITIZATION 2026-1: Fitch Rates Class B-2 Notes 'B-sf'
---------------------------------------------------------------
Fitch Ratings has assigned final ratings to the residential
mortgage-backed notes issued by Verus Securitization Trust 2026-1
(Verus 2026-1).
RATING ACTIONS
Entity/Debt Rating Prior
VERUS 2026-1
A-1 LT AAAsf New Rating AAA(EXP)sf
A-1A LT AAAsf New Rating AAA(EXP)sf
A-1B LT AAAsf New Rating AAA(EXP)sf
A-1F LT WDsf Withdrawn AAA(EXP)sf
A-1FCF LT AAAsf New Rating AAA(EXP)sf
A-1FCX LT AAAsf New Rating AAA(EXP)sf
A-1IO LT WDsf Withdrawn AAA(EXP)sf
A-1IO1 LT WDsf Withdrawn AAA(EXP)sf
A-1IO2 LT WDsf Withdrawn AAA(EXP)sf
A-1LCF LT AAAsf New Rating AAA(EXP)sf
A-2 LT AAsf New Rating AA(EXP)sf
A-3 LT Asf New Rating A(EXP)sf
A-IO-S LT NRsf New Rating NR(EXP)sf
B-1 LT BBsf New Rating BB-(EXP)sf
B-2 LT B-sf New Rating B-(EXP)sf
B-3 LT NRsf New Rating NR(EXP)sf
M-1 LT BBB-sf New Rating BBB-(EXP)sf
R LT NRsf New Rating NR(EXP)sf
XS LT NRsf New Rating NR(EXP)sf
Transaction Summary
The notes are supported by 1,550 loans with a balance of $806.1
million as of Jan. 1, 2026 (the cutoff date).
The notes are secured by mortgage loans originated by various
originators and acquired by the sellers.
Distributions of principal and interest (P&I) and loss allocations
are based on a modified sequential-payment structure. The
transaction has a stop advance feature for first-lien loans, where
the P&I advancing party will advance delinquent P&I for up to 90
days. There is no servicer advancing for second-lien loans.
Primary residence loans constitute 52.0% of the Verus 2026-1
transaction pool, followed by second home and investor loans at
48.0%. In terms of documentation type, the transaction consists
predominantly of debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) loans, at
34.0%; while 26.0% were originated to a bank statement program,
19.4% are a CPA P&L product, 13.1% are full documentation or a tax
return product, and the remaining 7.5% were underwritten to a
written verification of employment (WVOE) or asset underwriting
product.
There were slight changes to collateral since presale. Nine loans
were dropped, and original balances were rolled to Jan. 1 balances
(vs. Jan. 1 estimated balances cutoff date for presale). Overall,
the collateral composition of the final pool remained similar to
the preliminary pool and losses decreased between 2bps-9bps for all
classes.
After receiving the post-pricing structure on Jan. 9, bond balances
were updated and most coupons decreased by 20-30 bps, which
increased the excess spread to 187 bps. The higher excess spread
and improved deal pricing provided additional credit enhancement,
leading Fitch to upgrade its expected rating for the B-1 class to
'BBsf'. Ratings for the other classes remained the same.
The issuer provided an updated structure, removing the withdrawn
classes A-1F, A-1IO1, A-1IO2, and A-1IO, all of which previously
had expected ratings of AAA with a Stable outlook.
KEY RATING DRIVERS
Credit Risk of Mortgage Assets: The performance of underlying
residential mortgages or mortgage-related assets directly affects
RMBS transactions. Fitch analyzes loan-level attributes and
macroeconomic factors to assess the credit risk and expected
losses. Verus 2026-1 has a final probability of default (PD) of
44.6% in the 'AAAsf' rating stress. Fitch's final loss severity
(LS) in the 'AAAsf' rating stress is 42.7%. The expected loss in
the 'AAAsf' rating stress is 19.0%.
Structural Analysis: Verus 2026-1 bases its mortgage cash flow and
loss allocation on a modified sequential-payment structure with
limited advancing, whereby principal is distributed pro rata among
the senior notes while shutting out the subordinate bonds from
principal until all senior classes are reduced to zero. If a
cumulative loss trigger event or delinquency trigger event occurs
in a given period, principal will be distributed sequentially.
Fitch analyzes the capital structure to determine the adequacy of
the transaction's credit enhancement (CE) to support payments on
the securities under multiple scenarios incorporating Fitch's loss
projections derived from the asset analysis. Fitch applies its
assumptions for defaults, prepayments, delinquencies and interest
rate scenarios. The CE for all ratings were sufficient for the
given rating levels.
Operational Risk Analysis: Fitch considers originator and servicer
capability, third-party due diligence results, and the
transaction-specific representation, warranty and enforcement
(RW&E) framework to derive a potential operational risk adjustment.
The only consideration with a direct impact on Fitch's loss
expectations is due diligence. Third-party due diligence was
performed on all loans in the transaction. Fitch applies a 5bp
z-score reduction for loans fully reviewed by a third-party review
(TPR) firm, which have a final grade of either "A" or "B."
Counterparty and Legal Analysis: Fitch expects all relevant
transaction parties to conform with the requirements described in
its Global Structured Finance Rating Criteria. Relevant parties are
those whose failure to perform could have a material impact on the
performance of the transaction. Additionally, all legal
requirements should be satisfied to fully de-link the transaction
from any other entities. Fitch expects Verus 2026-1 to be fully
de-linked and a bankruptcy remote special purpose vehicle (SPV).
All transaction parties and triggers align with Fitch's
expectations.
Rating Cap Analysis: Common rating caps in U.S. RMBS may include,
but are not limited to, new product types with limited or volatile
historical data and transactions with weak operational or
structural/counterparty features. These considerations do not apply
to Verus 2026-1 and, therefore, Fitch is comfortable assigning the
highest possible rating of 'AAAsf' without any rating caps.
RATING SENSITIVITIES
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Negative
Rating Action/Downgrade
The defined negative rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
the ratings would react to steeper market value declines (MVDs) at
the national level. The analysis assumes MVDs of 10.0%, 20.0% and
30.0% in addition to the model projected 37.4% at 'AAA'. The
analysis indicates that there is some potential rating migration
with higher MVDs for all rated classes, compared with the model
projection. Specifically, a 10% additional decline in home prices
would lower all rated classes by one full category.
Factors that Could, Individually or Collectively, Lead to Positive
Rating Action/Upgrade
The defined positive rating sensitivity analysis demonstrates how
the ratings would react to positive home price growth of 10% with
no assumed overvaluation. Excluding the senior class, which is
already rated 'AAAsf', the analysis indicates there is potential
positive rating migration for all the rated classes. Specifically,
a 10% gain in home prices would result in a full category upgrade
for the rated class excluding those assigned 'AAAsf' ratings.
WESTLAKE AUTOMOBILE 2026-1: S&P Assigns BB (sf) Rating on E Notes
-----------------------------------------------------------------
S&P Global Ratings assigned its ratings to Westlake Automobile
Receivables Trust 2026-1's automobile receivables-backed notes.
The note issuance is an ABS transaction backed by subprime auto
loan receivables.
The ratings reflect:
-- The availability of approximately 45.7%, 39.2%, 30.4%, 23.1%,
and 19.8% credit support (hard credit enhancement and haircut to
excess spread) for the class A (classes A-1, A-2-A, A-2-B, and A-3,
collectively), B, C, D, and E notes, respectively, based on final
post-pricing stressed break-even cash flow scenarios. These credit
support levels provide at least 3.50x, 3.00x, 2.30x, 1.75x, and
1.50x coverage of S&P's expected cumulative net loss (ECNL) of
12.75% for the class A, B, C, D, and E notes, respectively.
-- The expectation that under a moderate ('BBB') stress scenario
(1.75x S&P's expected loss level), all else being equal, its 'AAA
(sf)', 'AA (sf)', 'A (sf)', 'BBB (sf)', and 'BB (sf)' ratings on
the class A, B, C, D, and E notes, respectively, are within its
credit stability limits.
-- The timely payment of interest and principal by the designated
legal final maturity dates under S&P's stressed cash flow modeling
scenarios, which we believe are appropriate for the assigned
ratings.
-- The collateral characteristics of the series' subprime
automobile loans, S&P's view of the credit risk of the collateral,
and our updated macroeconomic forecast and forward-looking view of
the auto finance sector.
-- The series' bank accounts at Wells Fargo Bank N.A., which do
not constrain the ratings.
-- S&P's operational risk assessment of Westlake Services LLC as
servicer and its view of the company's underwriting and the backup
servicing arrangement with Computershare Trust Co. N.A.
-- S&P's assessment of the transaction's potential exposure to
environmental, social, and governance credit factors, which are in
line with its sector benchmark.
-- The transaction's payment and legal structures.
Ratings Assigned
Westlake Automobile Receivables Trust 2026-1
Class A-1, $471.00 million: A-1+ (sf)
Class A-2-A, $450.00 million: AAA (sf)
Class A-2-B, $50.00 million: AAA (sf)
Class A-3, $296.40 million: AAA (sf)
Class B, $153.81 million: AA (sf)
Class C, $231.78 million: A (sf)
Class D, $197.01 million: BBB (sf)
Class E, $102.19 million: BB (sf)
*********
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S U B S C R I P T I O N I N F O R M A T I O N
Troubled Company Reporter is a daily newsletter co-published
by Bankruptcy Creditors Service, Inc., Fairless Hills,
Pennsylvania, USA, and Beard Group, Inc., Philadelphia, Pa., USA.
Randy Antoni, Jhonas Dampog, Marites Claro, Joy Agravante,
Rousel Elaine Tumanda, Joel Anthony G. Lopez, Psyche A. Castillon,
Ivy B. Magdadaro, Carlo Fernandez, Christopher G. Patalinghug, and
Peter A. Chapman, Editors.
Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. ISSN: 1520-9474.
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