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Annaly Capital Boosts Residential Credit & MSR Focus
23 Apr
Summary
- Capital allocation shifted to Residential Credit and MSR strategies.
- Earnings per share rose to $0.76, exceeding the $0.70 dividend.
- Leverage maintained at a conservative 5.7x, indicating prudent risk management.

Annaly Capital Management has strategically reoriented its investment strategy, increasing capital allocation towards Residential Credit and Mortgage Servicing Rights (MSR) in the first quarter of 2026. This shift occurred amidst significant market volatility and evolving interest rate expectations. The company successfully raised $510 million in common equity, primarily deploying these funds into these higher-yielding credit and servicing assets.
Despite a 1.9% decrease in book value per share to $19.82, Annaly Capital reported earnings available for distribution (EAD) per share of $0.76, exceeding its declared $0.70 quarterly dividend. The firm maintained a conservative leverage ratio of 5.7x, underscoring its commitment to prudent risk management. The efficiency ratio improved to 1.29%, positioning Annaly among the most efficient in the mortgage REIT sector.
Looking ahead, Annaly Capital reaffirms its long-term capital allocation targets of 50% Agency, 30% Residential Credit, and 20% MSR. The company emphasizes a patient and flexible approach to achieving these goals, ready to adapt to market dynamics. The Residential Credit business saw significant growth, including record securitization volume, while the MSR portfolio offers strong, predictable cash flows due to its high credit quality and low note rates.