Doug Duncan, the often-colorful chief economist that rose to industry prominence with the Mortgage Bankers Association, is moving to a similar role at Fannie Mae. The GSE on Tuesday named Duncan vice president and chief economist after 15 years at the MBA, where Duncan often served as the organization’s most visible spokesperson. “His counsel and scholarship will be important assets for the company as we strive to bring stability, liquidity and affordability to the turbulent housing and mortgage markets,” said Fannie Mae CEO Daniel Mudd. “I also hope that, given Doug’s role at the MBA, he will provide us with critical insights so that we can better serve our partners and customers in the years ahead.” In addition to leading economic, housing and mortgage forecasting efforts at the GSE, Duncan will provide regular economic commentary and serve as a primary spokesperson on the economy and the housing and mortgage markets for the company. “Leaving MBA after 15 years is a tough decision given its prominence and influential position in the industry,” Duncan said. “However, the opportunity at Fannie Mae is to join another influential firm at a critical time in the real estate finance markets. I look forward to making a positive contribution to the ability of Fannie Mae to support the housing markets.” MBA president Jonathan Kempner said that the MBA will miss Duncan’s influence. “With his balanced and level-headed approach, Doug has become a household name for anyone trying to understand the dynamics of the real estate market,” he said. “For that reason, he will of course be sorely missed. Duncan will join Fannie Mae in April.

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