Episode Details

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:

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

Optimal Insights Team:

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

Production Team:

1. Executive Producer: Sara Holtz
2. 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:

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