What does "QM" stand for in mortgage lending and what does it signify?

"QM" stands for Qualified Mortgage, which signifies a category of loans that adhere to specific underwriting standards designed to protect consumers. The Qualified Mortgage definition includes criteria such as debt-to-income ratios, points and fees limits, and verified income and assets. The goal of these criteria is to ensure that borrowers are not burdened by loans they cannot repay, thus promoting responsible lending practices and safeguarding borrowers from potentially predatory loans.

This concept arose out of regulations implemented in response to the financial crisis, emphasizing borrower protection through transparent and straightforward mortgage offerings. The other options, while they might represent valid concepts in different contexts, do not accurately capture the definition or significance of "QM" in the realm of mortgage lending.