Publications:
Evaluating Statistical Models of Mortgage Lending Discrimination: A Bank-Specific Analysis

by Mitchell Stengel and Dennis Glennon

OCC Working Paper 95-3, May 1995.

Abstract
The Boston Fed's study on mortgage lending discrimination has prompted a considerable rise in the use of statistical methods to evaluate banks' lending behavior. However, several issues concerning the validity, accuracy, and reliability of statistical models remain unresolved. In this paper, we attempt to address several of those issues within the context of a bank-specific analysis.

Using data gathered from three nationally chartered banks, we extend the "standard" model outlined in the Boston Fed study. We conclude that a model specification that incorporates the specific underwriting guidelines of the individual bank is more appropriate than a broadly-defined, generic specification applied across all banks. We also show that the process of incorporating the bank-specific guidelines is itself difficult and can be complicated further by the lack of accurate data upon which to build a valid representative sample.

We discuss several additional methodological issues concerning model validity, specification, sample design, and data accuracy that must be addressed if a statistical approach is to become a useful and accurate supervisory tool.

Disclaimer
As with all OCC Working Papers, the opinions expressed in this paper are those of the author alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency or the Department of the Treasury.

Any whole or partial reproduction of material in this paper should include the following citation: Stengel, Mitchell, and Dennis Glennon, "Evaluating Statistical Models of Mortgage Lending Discrimination: A Bank-Specific Analysis,"Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, E&PA Working Paper 95-3, May 1995.

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