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 ServicesAlex Hebner, Hedge Account Manager, Optimal BlueJames Cahill, MSF/MSR Account ManagerProduction 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:Schedule 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 - OILock 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 Locking