In this episode of Optimal Insights, Jim Glennon is joined by Jeff McCarty and Alex Hebner to discuss why interest rates remain stubbornly high and what it means for the mortgage industry. The team explores inflation trends, global debt pressures, and the structural shifts reshaping the long-term rate environment.

Key Topics:

• Market Snapshot: OBMMI at 6.84%, with strong purchase and refi volume.
• Inflation & Labor: PCE shows progress, but jobless claims and construction employment hint at softening.
• Global Debt & Deficit Spending: U.S. and European nations are flooding markets with debt, pushing long-term yields higher.
• Tariffs & Tax Policy: Section 301 and 899 policies could reduce demand for U.S. debt, raising borrowing costs.
• Energy & Inflation Relief: OPEC’s increased supply is helping ease inflation, but geopolitical dynamics remain in play.

#OptimizeYourAdvantage #MaximizeProfitability

Optimal Insights Team:

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

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Smarter Hedging Starts with the Right Team

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