Consider the parameters and 'methodology' (for lack of a better word). First, the supposed “stress” in this “test” (where it was announced in advance that no bank could “fail”) consisted of economic parameters which were better than the best-case scenario for the U.S. economy. In other words, there was zero “stress” in this “test”...[/url]
Good analysis as usual, bullionbulls. Take for example the estimated worst case scenario for defaults of the so called prime mortgage loans (not the infamous subprime sector!) as assumed by this cozy stress-test. It lies between 3.5 and 4 pc. If we have a look at the latest alarming data coming out of Fannie Mae as they are reporting just another whopping loss, it can be seen that this estimated maximum default rate has already almost been reached by now. This would mean that they frankly assume that basically all of the stress in the housing sector has already happened. In fact, this so called stress-test assumes a bottom already reached and not a real stress scenario of any kind as far as the future repayment capabilities of US home buyers are concerned.
And, of course, I would be very curious to know which have been the parameters for potential future losses stemming from commercial real estate, the demise of which has just begun.
regards
auratico

