Investors fear bailout of Fannie, Freddie

Shares of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac hit 17-year lows today as investors' fears about the companies' ability to raise additional capital fueled speculation of the possibility of a government bailout.

The government-chartered companies -- which purchase mortgages and securitize and sell pools of loans to investors with guarantees on their performance -- are adequately capitalized, federal officials insist.

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