In this episode of Optimal Insights, host Jim Glennon is joined by James Cahill and Alex Hebner for a deep dive into the latest market trends and economic signals as we approach year-end. They discuss the impact of tariffs, inflation trends, and employment data, highlighting how these factors influence interest rates and mortgage activity. The conversation covers the Fed’s upcoming meeting, expected rate cuts, and the implications of leadership changes in early 2026.

Later, Brennan O’Connell and Mike Vough preview the November 2025 Market Advantage Report, analyzing origination trends, lock volumes, rate movements, and secondary market execution strategies. Key insights include strong refinance activity, non-QM growth, and evolving investor behaviors.

Subscribe to the Market Advantage Report to receive the data directly in your inbox: https://www2.optimalblue.com/market-advantage

Key Points Discussed:

• Tariffs and potential Supreme Court ruling on legality.
• Inflation easing to 2.7% and its effect on rate expectations.
• Private payroll contraction and small business challenges.
• Anticipated Fed rate cut and leadership turnover in 2026.
• November lock volume trends and non-QM share hitting 9%.
• Secondary market execution shifts and MSR valuation changes.

Optimal Insights Team:

• Jim Glennon, Senior Vice President, Hedging and Trading Operations
• Alex Hebner, Hedge Account Manager
• James Cahill, MSF/MSR Account Manager
• Mike Vough, Senior Vice President, Corporate Strategy
• Brennan O’Connell, Director of Data Solutions

Production Team:

• Executive Producer: Sara Holtz
• Producer: Matt Gilhooly

Commentary included in the podcast shall not be construed as, nor is Optimal Blue providing, any legal, trading, hedging, or financial advice.

Mentioned in this episode:

Optimal Blue Summit 2026 | February 23-25 | Scottsdale, Arizona

In case you missed it – Optimal Blue has announced the dates for its 2026 Summit! Join us February 23 – 25 at Talking Stick Resort and Conference Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, for a client-exclusive event packed with strategic insight and innovation. Attendees will gain early access to Optimal Blue’s latest generative AI and automation tools, dive into expert-led sessions on pricing, compliance and more, and experience hands-on demos of new capabilities. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with capital markets pros, integration partners, and mortgage insiders—all while gaining actionable strategies to maximize profitability and sharpen your competitive edge. The Optimal Blue Summit: where proven mortgage expertise meets modern innovation to shape what's next. Early bird registration is now open at Summit.OptimalBlue.com – space is limited, so register today! News release: https://www2.optimalblue.com/optimal-blue-to-host-its-2026-summit-february-23-25-in-scottsdale Registration: Summit.OptimalBlue.com

Summit - OI

Lock Loans on the Go – Mobile Locking in the Optimal Blue Mobile App

Traditional loan locking slows decisions and ties you to a desk, but borrowers expect instant answers. Optimal Blue’s Mobile Locking changes the game. With our native iOS and Android app, loan officers can access their pipeline, run pricing, and lock loans anytime, anywhere – fast, secure, and accurate. No delays. No extra cost. Just seamless mobility that enhances the borrower experience. Download the Optimal Blue Mobile App today and start...

In this episode, the Optimal Insights team analyzes the lingering effects of the recent government shutdown on economic data and market sentiment. With limited new data available, the conversation centers on the upcoming FOMC meeting, the evolving composition of the Federal Reserve, and the implications for mortgage rates and market confidence.

Jim Glennon, Alex Hebner, and James Cahill discuss the increasing dissent within the Fed, the impact on rate expectations, and the potential for significant changes in 2026 as new appointments are made. They also touch on the influence of private payrolls and PCE data, the uncertainty in long-term rates, and the anticipated nomination of Kevin Hassett as the next Fed chair.

Key Points:

• Government shutdown has delayed key economic data, increasing market uncertainty.
• Upcoming FOMC meeting and rate decision are pivotal for the mortgage industry.
• Rising dissent within the Fed could lead to greater volatility in rate expectations.
• Mortgage rates remain stubbornly above 6%, with spreads tightening.

Optimal Insights Team:

• Jim Glennon, Vice President of Hedging and Trading Client Services
• Alex Hebner, Hedge Account Manager, Optimal Blue
• James Cahill, MSF/MSR Account Manager

Production Team:

• Executive Producer: Sara Holtz
• Producer: Matt Gilhooly

Commentary included in the podcast shall not be construed as, nor is Optimal Blue providing, any legal, trading, hedging, or financial advice.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lock Loans on the Go – Mobile Locking in the Optimal Blue Mobile App

Traditional loan locking slows decisions and ties you to a desk, but borrowers expect instant answers. Optimal Blue’s Mobile Locking changes the game. With our native iOS and Android app, loan officers can access their pipeline, run pricing, and lock loans anytime, anywhere – fast, secure, and accurate. No delays. No extra cost. Just seamless mobility that enhances the borrower experience. Download the Optimal Blue Mobile App today and start locking loans on the go.

Mobile Locking

Optimal Blue Summit 2026 | February 23-25 | Scottsdale, Arizona

In case you missed it – Optimal Blue has announced the dates for its 2026 Summit! Join us February 23 – 25 at Talking Stick Resort and Conference Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, for a client-exclusive event packed with strategic insight and innovation. Attendees will gain early access to Optimal Blue’s latest generative AI and automation tools, dive into expert-led sessions on pricing, compliance and more, and experience hands-on demos of new capabilities. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with capital markets pros, integration partners, and mortgage insiders—all while gaining actionable strategies to maximize profitability and sharpen your competitive edge. The Optimal Blue Summit: where proven mortgage expertise meets modern innovation to shape what's next. Early bird registration is now open at Summit.OptimalBlue.com – space is limited, so register today! News release: https://www2.optimalblue.com/optimal-blue-to-host-its-2026-summit-february-23-25-in-scottsdale Registration: Summit.OptimalBlue.com

Summit - OI

In this episode of Optimal Insights, James Cahill, Alex Hebner, and Kevin Foley share the latest economic updates, covering mortgage rates, Fed rate cut probabilities, and unemployment trends. Then Jim Glennon and Vimi Vasudeva discuss key takeaways from the IMN MSR Conference, including MSR market dynamics, PennyMac’s push for recapture valuation standardization, and creative home equity products like HEI and HELOCs for seniors.

• Mortgage rates remain high, but volume is strong
• Fed rate cut probabilities fluctuate amid data uncertainty
• MSR market shifts toward strategic bulk bids
• PennyMac pushes CFPB for recapture valuation standardization
• Innovative home equity solutions for seniors and investors

Optimal Insights Team:

• Jim Glennon, Vice President of Hedging and Trading Client Services
• Alex Hebner, Hedge Account Manager, Optimal Blue
• James Cahill, MSF/MSR Account Manager
• Kevin Foley, Director of Product Management, Optimal Blue
• Vimi Vasudeva, Managing Director of Hedging and Trading Client Services

Production Team:

• Executive Producer: Sara Holtz
• Producer: Matt Gilhooly

Commentary included in the podcast shall not be construed as, nor is Optimal Blue providing, any legal, trading, hedging, or financial advice.

Mentioned in this episode:

Optimal Blue Summit 2026 | February 23-25 | Scottsdale, Arizona

In case you missed it – Optimal Blue has announced the dates for its 2026 Summit! Join us February 23 – 25 at Talking Stick Resort and Conference Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, for a client-exclusive event packed with strategic insight and innovation. Attendees will gain early access to Optimal Blue’s latest generative AI and automation tools, dive into expert-led sessions on pricing, compliance and more, and experience hands-on demos of new capabilities. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with capital markets pros, integration partners, and mortgage insiders—all while gaining actionable strategies to maximize profitability and sharpen your competitive edge. The Optimal Blue Summit: where proven mortgage expertise meets modern innovation to shape what's next. Early bird registration is now open at Summit.OptimalBlue.com – space is limited, so register today! News release: https://www2.optimalblue.com/optimal-blue-to-host-its-2026-summit-february-23-25-in-scottsdale Registration: Summit.OptimalBlue.com

Summit - OI

Lock Loans on the Go – Mobile Locking in the Optimal Blue Mobile App

Traditional loan locking slows decisions and ties you to a desk, but borrowers expect instant answers. Optimal Blue’s Mobile Locking changes the game. With our native iOS and Android app, loan officers can access their pipeline, run pricing, and lock loans anytime, anywhere – fast, secure, and accurate. No delays. No extra cost. Just seamless mobility that enhances the borrower experience. Download the Optimal Blue Mobile App today and start locking loans on the go.

Mobile Locking

In this episode of Optimal Insights, host Jim Glennon is joined by Alex Hebner and James Cahill to unpack the latest developments in the mortgage and macroeconomic landscape. The team discusses the reopening of the U.S. government, the delayed release of September jobs data, and the implications of widespread layoffs in October. They explore the evolving rhetoric around Fed rate cuts, inflation concerns, and the shifting stance of key Fed governors.

The episode also features the new Market Advantage segment with Mike Vough and Brennan O’Connell, highlighting October’s mortgage production trends, rate movements, and secondary market dynamics. Notable insights include the rise in non-QM lending, increased pull-through rates, and a shift in servicing retention strategies.

Key Topics Covered:

• Government shutdown resolution and data delays
• Fed rate cut uncertainty and inflation signals
• FHFA proposals: LLPAs, 50-year mortgages, assumable loans
• Market Advantage insights: lock volume, rate spreads, servicing multiples
• Emerging HELOC models resembling reverse mortgages

Tune in to gain valuable insights to help you stay ahead and maximize your results in the ever-evolving mortgage landscape.

Optimal Insights Team:

• Jim Glennon, Vice President of Hedging and Trading Client Services
• Alex Hebner, Hedge Account Manager, Optimal Blue
• James Cahill, MSF/MSR Account Manager

Market Advantage Section:

• Mike Vough, Head of Corporate Strategy, Optimal Blue
• Brennan O’Connell, Director of Data Solutions, Optimal Blue

Optimal Blue Production Team:

• Executive Producer: Sara Holtz
• Producer: Matt Gilhooly

Commentary included in the podcast shall not be construed as, nor is Optimal Blue providing, any legal, trading, hedging, or financial advice.

Mentioned in this episode:

Optimal Blue Summit 2026 | February 23-25 | Scottsdale, Arizona

In case you missed it – Optimal Blue has announced the dates for its 2026 Summit! Join us February 23 – 25 at Talking Stick Resort and Conference Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, for a client-exclusive event packed with strategic insight and innovation. Attendees will gain early access to Optimal Blue’s latest generative AI and automation tools, dive into expert-led sessions on pricing, compliance and more, and experience hands-on demos of new capabilities. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with capital markets pros, integration partners, and mortgage insiders—all while gaining actionable strategies to maximize profitability and sharpen your competitive edge. The Optimal Blue Summit: where proven mortgage expertise meets modern innovation to shape what's next. Early bird registration is now open at Summit.OptimalBlue.com – space is limited, so register today! News release: https://www2.optimalblue.com/optimal-blue-to-host-its-2026-summit-february-23-25-in-scottsdale Registration: Summit.OptimalBlue.com

Summit - OI

Lock Loans on the Go – Mobile Locking in the Optimal Blue Mobile App

Traditional loan locking slows decisions and ties you to a desk, but borrowers expect instant answers. Optimal Blue’s Mobile Locking changes the game. With our native iOS and Android app, loan officers can access their pipeline, run pricing, and lock loans anytime, anywhere – fast, secure, and accurate. No delays. No extra cost. Just seamless mobility that enhances the borrower experience. Download the Optimal Blue Mobile App today and start locking loans on the go.

Mobile Locking

Welcome to the Market Advantage! Hosts Olivia DeLancey, Brennan O’Connell, and Mike Vough break down October’s mortgage market data, highlighting production trends, rate environment shifts, and secondary market insights.

Special Announcement:

Market Advantage is merging with Optimal Insights! This move will allow us to deliver timely mortgage data and analysis to the public even faster. Stay tuned for future episodes under the Optimal Insights banner.

Key Takeaways:

• October’s market activity shifted compared to previous months, reflecting both seasonal patterns and broader market momentum.
• Purchase and refinance activity showed typical seasonal changes, but with some notable differences in how each segment performed.
• Mortgage rates moved in a favorable direction, influenced by both macroeconomic factors and market-specific dynamics.
• The gap between mortgage rates and Treasury yields narrowed, signaling changes in investor sentiment and pricing power.
• Lenders adjusted their strategies for loan sales, prioritizing certain execution channels and responding to changing market incentives.
• Servicing approaches shifted, with valuations rising and lenders reconsidering the balance between immediate returns and long-term relationships.

Links and Resources:

• Subscribe to the Market Advantage data report
• Follow the Optimal Insights podcast
• Subscribe to Optimal Blue’s YouTube channel
• Follow Optimal Blue on LinkedIn

Commentary included in the podcast shall not be construed as, nor is Optimal Blue providing, any legal, trading, hedging, or financial advice.

Mentioned in this episode:

Capture for Originators

Reengage Past Clients Without the Spreadsheet Headache Tired of manually hunting for refinance opportunities? Capture for Originators does the heavy lifting for you. It automatically scans your closed loan portfolio and flags recapture opportunities – no spreadsheets, no manual work. Just actionable recapture opportunities delivered straight to you. Learn more: https://www2.optimalblue.com/optimal-blue-launches-new-lead-generation-tool-for-originators or reach out to your Optimal Blue Client service representative for more information.

Optimal Blue Summit 2026 | February 23-25 | Scottsdale, Arizona

In case you missed it – Optimal Blue has announced the dates for its 2026 Summit! Join us February 23 – 25 at Talking Stick Resort and Conference Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, for a client-exclusive event packed with strategic insight and innovation. Attendees will gain early access to Optimal Blue’s latest generative AI and automation tools, dive into expert-led sessions on pricing, compliance and more, and experience hands-on demos of new capabilities. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with capital markets pros, integration partners, and mortgage insiders—all while gaining actionable strategies to maximize profitability and sharpen your competitive edge. The Optimal Blue Summit: where proven mortgage expertise meets modern innovation to shape what's next. Early bird registration is now open at Summit.OptimalBlue.com – space is limited, so register today! News release: https://www2.optimalblue.com/optimal-blue-to-host-its-2026-summit-february-23-25-in-scottsdale Registration: Summit.OptimalBlue.com

In this episode, the Optimal Insights team dives into the latest market developments, including the potential resolution of the government shutdown, consumer sentiment data, and the controversial proposal of a 50-year mortgage. The team discusses affordability challenges, LLPAs, and the broader implications for first-time homebuyers.

Special guest Anita Padilla-Fitzgerald shares her inspiring journey from receptionist to CEO, her vision for empowering loan officers through technology, and the role of AI in transforming mortgage operations. Her insights into LoanMaps and the Rule Tool highlight the importance of data integrity, cost reduction, and trust in tech-driven solutions.

Key Topics:

• Government shutdown updates and implications for SNAP and ACA
• Market data: OBMMI trends, consumer sentiment index
• Affordability innovations: 50-year mortgage debate
• Technology in mortgage: LoanMaps, Rule Tool, and AI applications
• Empowering women in fintech and leadership

Tune in to gain valuable insights to help you stay ahead in the ever-evolving mortgage landscape.

Optimal Insights Team:

• Jim Glennon, VP of Hedging and Trading Client Services
• Alex Hebner, Hedge Account Manager, Optimal Blue
• James Cahill, MSF/MSR Account Manager
• Kevin Foley, Director of Product Management, Optimal Blue

Special Guest:

• Anita Padilla-Fitzgerald, Founder & CEO, MegaStar; Founder & CEO, Take3 Technologies

Optimal Blue Production Team:

• Executive Producer: Sara Holtz
• Producer: Matt Gilhooly

Commentary included in the podcast shall not be construed as, nor is Optimal Blue providing, any legal, trading, hedging, or financial advice.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lock Loans on the Go – Mobile Locking in the Optimal Blue Mobile App

Traditional loan locking slows decisions and ties you to a desk, but borrowers expect instant answers. Optimal Blue’s Mobile Locking changes the game. With our native iOS and Android app, loan officers can access their pipeline, run pricing, and lock loans anytime, anywhere – fast, secure, and accurate. No delays. No extra cost. Just seamless mobility that enhances the borrower experience. Download the Optimal Blue Mobile App today and start locking loans on the go.

Mobile Locking

Optimal Blue Summit 2026 | February 23-25 | Scottsdale, Arizona

In case you missed it – Optimal Blue has announced the dates for its 2026 Summit! Join us February 23 – 25 at Talking Stick Resort and Conference Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, for a client-exclusive event packed with strategic insight and innovation. Attendees will gain early access to Optimal Blue’s latest generative AI and automation tools, dive into expert-led sessions on pricing, compliance and more, and experience hands-on demos of new capabilities. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with capital markets pros, integration partners, and mortgage insiders—all while gaining actionable strategies to maximize profitability and sharpen your competitive edge. The Optimal Blue Summit: where proven mortgage expertise meets modern innovation to shape what's next. Early bird registration is now open at Summit.OptimalBlue.com – space is limited, so register today! News release: https://www2.optimalblue.com/optimal-blue-to-host-its-2026-summit-february-23-25-in-scottsdale Registration: Summit.OptimalBlue.com

Summit - OI

In this episode of Optimal Insights, the team dives into the latest macroeconomic developments shaping the mortgage industry. Topics include the recent Fed rate cut and Chairman Powell’s unexpected commentary, which sent shockwaves through the markets. The team explores the implications of rising interest rates, the evolving labor market, and the impact of AI and borrowing costs on hiring trends.

They also discuss FHFA leadership changes, potential shifts in mortgage pricing, and the broader effects of international trade relations and tariffs. The conversation highlights the uncertainty surrounding future rate cuts, the role of asset prices, and the potential restructuring of LLPAs and credit scoring models.

Key Insights:

• For many, the Fed’s quarter-point rate cut raised more questions than answers, especially with Powell’s “far from it” comment regarding future cuts.
• FHFA leadership changes and social media commentary hint at possible mortgage pricing reforms.
• Supreme Court hearings on tariffs could have wide-reaching implications for inflation and trade policy.

Tune in to gain valuable insights to help you stay ahead and maximize your profitability in the ever-evolving mortgage landscape.

Optimal Insights Team:

• Jim Glennon, Vice President of Hedging and Trading Client Services
• Alex Hebner, Hedge Account Manager
• Kevin Foley, Director of Product Management

Optimal Blue Production Team:

• Executive Producer: Sara Holtz
• Producers: Matt Gilhooly

Commentary included in the podcast shall not be construed as, nor is Optimal Blue providing, any legal, trading, hedging, or financial advice.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lock Loans on the Go – Mobile Locking in the Optimal Blue Mobile App

Traditional loan locking slows decisions and ties you to a desk, but borrowers expect instant answers. Optimal Blue’s Mobile Locking changes the game. With our native iOS and Android app, loan officers can access their pipeline, run pricing, and lock loans anytime, anywhere – fast, secure, and accurate. No delays. No extra cost. Just seamless mobility that enhances the borrower experience. Download the Optimal Blue Mobile App today and start locking loans on the go.

Mobile Locking

Optimal Blue Summit 2026 | February 23-25 | Scottsdale, Arizona

In case you missed it – Optimal Blue has announced the dates for its 2026 Summit! Join us February 23 – 25 at Talking Stick Resort and Conference Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, for a client-exclusive event packed with strategic insight and innovation. Attendees will gain early access to Optimal Blue’s latest generative AI and automation tools, dive into expert-led sessions on pricing, compliance and more, and experience hands-on demos of new capabilities. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with capital markets pros, integration partners, and mortgage insiders—all while gaining actionable strategies to maximize profitability and sharpen your competitive edge. The Optimal Blue Summit: where proven mortgage expertise meets modern innovation to shape what's next. Early bird registration is now open at Summit.OptimalBlue.com – space is limited, so register today! News release: https://www2.optimalblue.com/optimal-blue-to-host-its-2026-summit-february-23-25-in-scottsdale Registration: Summit.OptimalBlue.com

Summit - OI

In this episode of Optimal Insights, Jim Glennon is joined by Alex Hebner, Kevin Foley, and Vimi Vasudeva to discuss the latest developments shaping the mortgage industry. The team explores the implications of sparse economic data, including CPI and labor trends, and previews the upcoming Fed meeting. They also dive into the FHFA’s potential pricing reforms, including LLPA and G-fee adjustments, and recap key takeaways from the MBA Annual Conference. Vimi also shares insights from her panel on the newly passed trigger lead legislation, explaining how it could improve borrower retention and MSR value.

Key Topics Covered:

• Sparse Economic Data: CPI came in at 3.0%, slightly below expectations. Government shutdown may delay future data releases.
• Geopolitical Developments: Trade negotiations with China and Southeast Asian countries; implications for global markets.
• Federal Reserve Outlook: Anticipated 25 bps rate cut; discussion on FOMC sentiment and statement analysis.
• MBA Annual Conference Recap: Grounded optimism, tech adoption, AI skepticism, and new Optimal Blue features.
• Trigger Lead Legislation: New bipartisan law banning unsolicited data sales post mortgage inquiry; expected to improve retention and MSR value.

Optimal Insights Team:

• Jim Glennon, Vice President of Hedging and Trading Client Services
• Alex Hebner, Hedge Account Manager
• Kevin Foley, Director of Product Management
• Vimi Vasudeva, Managing Director of CompassPoint

Production Team:

• Executive Producer: Sara Holtz
• Producers: Matt Gilhooly

Commentary included in the podcast shall not be construed as, nor is Optimal Blue providing, any legal, trading, hedging, or financial advice.

Mentioned in this episode:

Optimal Blue Summit 2026 | February 23-25 | Scottsdale, Arizona

In case you missed it – Optimal Blue has announced the dates for its 2026 Summit! Join us February 23 – 25 at Talking Stick Resort and Conference Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, for a client-exclusive event packed with strategic insight and innovation. Attendees will gain early access to Optimal Blue’s latest generative AI and automation tools, dive into expert-led sessions on pricing, compliance and more, and experience hands-on demos of new capabilities. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with capital markets pros, integration partners, and mortgage insiders—all while gaining actionable strategies to maximize profitability and sharpen your competitive edge. The Optimal Blue Summit: where proven mortgage expertise meets modern innovation to shape what's next. Early bird registration is now open at Summit.OptimalBlue.com – space is limited, so register today! News release: https://www2.optimalblue.com/optimal-blue-to-host-its-2026-summit-february-23-25-in-scottsdale Registration: Summit.OptimalBlue.com

Summit - OI

Lock Loans on the Go – Mobile Locking in the Optimal Blue Mobile App

Traditional loan locking slows decisions and ties you to a desk, but borrowers expect instant answers. Optimal Blue’s Mobile Locking changes the game. With our native iOS and Android app, loan officers can access their pipeline, run pricing, and lock loans anytime, anywhere – fast, secure, and accurate. No delays. No extra cost. Just seamless mobility that enhances the borrower experience. Download the Optimal Blue Mobile App today and start locking loans on the go.

Mobile Locking