The key themes heading into 2025 for the specialty finance sector include a stable consumer environment, improving consumer credit trends especially in prime sectors, persistently high mortgage rates, and a relaxed regulatory scene. Since the election, shares have outperformed, suggesting a possible early realization of returns for consumer lenders, which complicates stock selection. The strategy from the previous year remains relevant in mortgage finance for 2025, emphasizing a preference for balanced business models. There is a favor for stocks that have unseen positive catalysts that could potentially drive further upside. Additionally, air lessors are still seen as undervalued, while a cautious approach is being taken regarding mortgage credit.

Following the results of the November election, which seem to have revitalized business and consumer confidence anticipating a pro-business political landscape, expectations for the U.S. economy have been adjusted. This change has led to lowered expectations for additional Federal Reserve easing. This environment is evaluated to positively influence stocks connected to consumer credit and spending, but may not be as beneficial for stocks tied to the mortgage market, which continues to be 'subdued' due to high interest rates and a limited housing supply.