The Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston earned net income of $41.3 million for the third quarter ended Sept. 30, making it the fourth consecutive quarter of positive net income.

The increase was primarily due to a $168.3 million decrease in the credit-related other-than-temporary impairment charges on certain private-label MBS, partially offset by factors including a $6.6 million decrease in net interest income after provision for credit losses, a $10.3 million increase in REFCorp assessments, and a $4.6 million increase in Affordable Housing Program contributions, according to a statement.

"We are pleased to report another increase in quarterly earnings," said Edward A. Hjerpe III, president and chief executive officer. "Every profitable quarter helps the bank move toward our goal of returning to a position where we can resume dividend payments, repurchase excess stock and more fully fund the affordable housing program."