Newfi Expands Non-QM Asset Depletion & Utilization Programs to Allow Use Of Cryptocurrency
EMERYVILLE, CA, February 19th, 2026 — Newfi Lending, a leading national mortgage lender focused on Non-QM originations, announced a major expansion of its proprietary Non-QM guidelines. The updates include the ability to use cryptocurrency assets for asset depletion and asset utilization, eligibility for new condo projects, fewer restrictions on bank statement expense letter requirements, expanded refinance flexibility, and broader reserve options.
“We are continuing to innovate our Non-QM offering,” said Steve Abreu, Founder and CEO of Newfi Lending. “These changes address the realities of modern borrowers, including the growing popularity of cryptocurrency as an asset, while maintaining strong underwriting discipline.”
Under the new guidelines, borrowers may use a portion of cryptocurrency holdings as qualifying assets. Up to 25% of the current value of Bitcoin and Ethereum held in a Coinbase account may be used for income calculations on asset depletion and asset utilization programs. Up to 50% of the current value of cryptocurrency-focused mutual funds or ETFs may also be eligible.
“These changes create more flexibility for borrowers who are financially strong but structured differently than traditional applicants,” said John Wise, EVP of National Production at Newfi Lending. “Investors and self-employed clients often hold wealth across multiple asset types. Recognizing those assets allows brokers to build smarter financing strategies while helping clients preserve liquidity.”
Reserve guidelines have also been broadened to include cryptocurrencies to count toward reserves, following Newfi’s similar updates to its DSCR program earlier this year.
Newfi also expanded eligibility for new condo projects and reduced restrictions tied to bank statement expense letter requirements. The company now permits up to $10,000 in incidental cash back on certain rate-and-term refinances and is removing reserve requirements entirely on select rate-and-term refinance scenarios. Reserve requirements have also been lowered in some areas, requiring as little as three months of reserves on loan amounts up to $1.5 million.
About Newfi Lending NMLS ID 1231327
Newfi is a multi-channel lender that is setting the standard for efficiency, transparency, and service in the mortgage marketplace. Founded by industry veterans in 2014, Newfi has grown to be one of the nation’s leading Non-QM lenders and operates nearly nationwide. Their mission is to revolutionize the way people finance their futures by providing innovative solutions, cultivating a people-first mindset, and being transparent every step of the way.
