In this episode, the Optimal Insights team explores how rising personal and public debt levels are influencing interest rates and shaping the broader economic landscape. The discussion covers inflation trends, the Fed’s upcoming decisions, and the impact of geopolitical tensions on energy prices. The team also examines AI’s effect on electricity demand and infrastructure, and how consumer behavior is shifting in response to tariffs and credit stress.

Key Topics Covered:

• Market update and inflation metrics
• Middle East conflict and energy market implications
• AI-driven energy consumption and nuclear energy resurgence
• Personal debt, student loans, and buy-now-pay-later trends
• National debt, deficit spending, and long-term interest rate outlook

Optimal Insights Team:

• Jim Glennon, Vice President of Hedging and Trading Client Services, Optimal Blue
• Jeff McCarty, VP of Hedging & Trading Product, Optimal Blue
• Alex Hebner, Hedge Account Manager, Optimal Blue
• James Cahill, MSR Account Manager, Optimal Blue

• Executive Producer: Sara Holtz
• Producers: Matt Gilhooly & Hailey Boyer

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