MYworldfix

In a significant move within the mortgage industry, Rocket Companies has completed its acquisition of Mr. Cooper Group, valued at an impressive $14.2 billion. This figure represents a substantial 51% premium over the valuation initially reported in March. As a direct outcome of this merger, Mr. Cooper will undergo a rebranding to align with the Rocket brand. Furthermore, Jay Bray, who previously served as CEO of Mr. Cooper, will now assume the role of president and CEO of Rocket Mortgage, a key subsidiary of Rocket Companies.

This strategic consolidation is set to create a formidable entity in the housing market. The newly combined organization will boast a servicing portfolio encompassing nearly 10 million homeowners, significantly expanding its reach and influence. At the close of the second quarter, the two companies collectively managed $1.27 trillion in owned mortgage servicing rights. Rocket's mortgage production reached $29 billion between April and June, while Mr. Cooper funded $9.4 billion in the second quarter of 2025. This acquisition follows Rocket's recent $1.75 billion takeover of Redfin, a move aimed at bolstering its data and AI capabilities. The integration of Redfin's popular home search platform, which attracts 50 million monthly visitors and features over 1 million active listings, with Rocket's mortgage services, is expected to create a more streamlined and efficient ecosystem for consumers.

Varun Krishna, CEO and director of Rocket Companies, expressed optimism about the merger, highlighting its potential to reduce costs and simplify the homeownership process by combining Mr. Cooper's servicing expertise with Rocket's origination strengths, advanced AI technology, and established national brand. Jay Bray, with his 25 years of leadership at Mr. Cooper, will now report to Krishna and join the board of directors. Bray emphasized their shared vision to enhance the housing industry by delivering a more personalized experience that makes homeownership more accessible. The transaction received advisory services from J.P. Morgan Securities LLC for Rocket and Citigroup Global Markets for Mr. Cooper. The deal's increased valuation is attributed to an 11x exchange ratio tied to Mr. Cooper's rising stock price since March. The acquisition had previously secured approval from Mr. Cooper's stockholders in early September and the boards of directors of both companies in late July. Additionally, Rocket Holdings Inc., holding 79% of Rocket's voting power, provided written consent, negating the need for a shareholder vote from Rocket. In late August, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) also greenlit the merger, with a stipulation limiting the combined company's Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac servicing exposure to 20%.

This landmark acquisition marks a pivotal moment in the housing and mortgage sector, signaling a future where integrated services, technological innovation, and customer-centric approaches will redefine the landscape of homeownership. The unified strength of these companies promises not only greater efficiency and reduced costs but also a more seamless and personalized journey for millions of homeowners across the nation, ultimately fostering growth and positive change within the industry.