Government policies and the subprime mortgage crisis

Louise Story explains why Goldman Sachs is choosing not to put money into political advertising despite the Supreme Court ruling that lessened restrictions. She also takes a look at why Fannie Mae stock, while worth little, is still trading heavily.

Mortgage giant Fannie Mae announced plans this week to institute a new rule penalizing homeowners who walk away from their mortgages. We ask Louise Story, finance reporter for our partner The New York Times, to explain the significance of the rule.

A year ago, the government took over struggling mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Today, both Fannie and Freddie are reporting huge profits. Joining The Takeaway to talk about these gains is Louise Story, New York Times finance reporter.

Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson described mortgage lenders Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac as ‘interwoven into our financial system.’ The government’s takeover of the two giants will have very real effects on mortgage holders, mortgage seekers, and taxpayers. Guest: Ron Lieber, reporter for the New York Times

What seemed unlikely has happened: On Sunday, the Bush Administration took control of mortgage heavyweights Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in an effort to stabilize the housing market and U.S. economy. Guest: Stephen Labaton, The New York Times