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 strongFed rate cut probabilities fluctuate amid data uncertaintyMSR market shifts toward strategic bulk bidsPennyMac pushes CFPB for recapture valuation standardizationInnovative home equity solutions for seniors and investorsOptimal Insights Team:Jim Glennon, Vice President of Hedging and Trading Client ServicesAlex Hebner, Hedge Account Manager, Optimal BlueJames Cahill, MSF/MSR Account ManagerKevin Foley, Director of Product Management, Optimal BlueVimi Vasudeva, Managing Director of Hedging and Trading Client ServicesProduction Team:Executive Producer: Sara HoltzProducer: Matt GilhoolyCommentary 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 AppTraditional 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 LockingSchedule is Live – Optimal Blue SummitThe Optimal Blue Summit 2026 agenda is live! Join us February 23–25 at Talking Stick Resort & Conference Center in Scottsdale, AZ for three days of innovation, insights, and networking. Explore tracks like Activate AI & Automation, Grow Your Profitability, Ensure End-to-End Results, and Tech Showcases & Training – all designed to deliver measurable ROI. Hear from featured speakers including Olympic legend Michael Phelps, MBA President Bob Broeksmit, Chief Economist Michael Fratantoni, and leaders from Optimal Blue. Check out the full agenda and register now at Summit.OptimalBlue.com. Use code HOLIDAY for discounted pricing – available for a limited time. Don’t miss your chance to shape the future of mortgage technology!Summit - OI