CPI, Rates & MSR 101: Multiples, Prepayments, Retain vs. Release | Optimal Insights | May 12

In this week’s episode of Optimal Insights, Jim Glennon, Alex Hebner, and James Cahill discuss mortgage rate context, the latest labor market data, and what to watch in upcoming CPI and PPI inflation reports.Then Vimi Vasudeva joins James to deliver an MSR 101 breakdown, explaining what mortgage servicing rights are, what drives MSR value, how multiples work, and key considerations in retain-versus-release decisions. They share expert insights into how these factors are shaping the industry and the broader economic landscape.Next week, Vimi and James continue the MSR conversation with a Day in the Life discussion. Stay tuned.Key PointsA market update on rates and spread context, including the OBMMI conventional 30-year (6.3%) and the 10-year (4.4%).A macro recap and look-ahead: jobs and unemployment (4.3%) plus CPI and PPI expectations for the week.MSR 101: what MSRs are, what drives MSR value (especially prepayments), how MSR multiples work, and retain-versus-release tradeoffs.Chapters00:00 – Opening, rate snapshot, and week-ahead setup02:06 – Market update: jobs, inflation week, and macro drivers10:01 – MSR 101: definition, value drivers, multiples, retain vs releaseOptimal Insights TeamJim Glennon, SVP, Hedging & Trading OperationsJames Cahill, MSF/MSR Account ManagerAlex Hebner, Hedge Account ManagerVimi Vasudeva, Managing Director, Hedging & Trading Client ServicesProduction TeamExecutive 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:Is Your PPE Helping – or Holding You Back?Small delays can become everyday obstacles. If your team relies on workarounds, extra verification steps, or manual processes to keep loans moving, it may be time to rethink your pricing engine. Discover what a modern PPE should deliver – from real-time accuracy and intelligent automation to seamless workflow execution. Learn more today. Explore the Optimal Blue PPE - https://www2.optimalblue.com/optimalblueppe