FOMC Turnover, Labor Signals & Global Shockwaves + December 2025 Data | Jan. 5, 2026

In this episode of Optimal Insights, the team dives into key developments shaping the mortgage industry as we enter 2026. They cover labor market stability, Fed leadership changes, geopolitical tensions following U.S. action in Venezuela, and what these mean for rates and originators. The discussion also includes the December Market Advantage review, highlighting origination trends, non-QM growth, and secondary market dynamics.Highlights:Labor market and unemployment trendsFed policy and leadership changesGeopolitical developments and rate implicationsOrigination performance and non-QM opportunitiesSecondary market and servicing trendsOptimal Insights Team: Jim Glennon, Senior Vice President of Hedging and Trading Operations Alex Hebner, Hedge Account Manager Mike Vough, Senior Vice President, Corporate Strategy Brennan O’Connell, Director of Data SolutionsProduction Team: Executive Producer: Sara Holtz Producer: 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