Asset Securitization Comptroller’s Handbook

Asset securitization is helping to shape the future of traditional commercial banking. By using the securities markets to fund portions of the loan portfolio, banks can allocate capital more efficiently, access diverse and cost-effective funding sources, and better manage business risks. But securitization markets offer challenges as well as opportunity. Indeed, the successes of nonbank securitizers are forcing banks to adopt some of their practices. Competition from commercial paper underwriters and captive finance companies has taken a toll on banks’ market share and profitability in the prime credit and consumer loan businesses. And the growing competition within the banking industry from specialized firms that rely on securitization puts pressure on more traditional banks to use securitization to streamline as much of their credit and originations business as possible. Because securitization may have such a fundamental impact on banks and the financial services industry, bankers and examiners should have a clear understanding of its benefits and inherent risks.