Market Update and MBA Secondary Takeaways | Optimal Insights | May 26, 2026

In this episode of Optimal Insights, the team delivers a timely market update followed by key takeaways from the MBA Secondary Conference in New York City. The discussion opens with a review of rate volatility, inflation pressures, and the impact of geopolitical developments on oil prices, Treasury yields, and mortgage rates. The speakers examine upcoming economic data, including PCE inflation, employment reports, and Fed communications, and what these indicators may signal for market participants.The conversation then shifts to insights from the MBA Secondary Conference, highlighting industry sentiment, operational themes, and evolving strategies. Topics include credit scoring model discussions, the growing role of non-QM production, practical applications of technology versus overuse of AI, and how lenders are adapting to a higher-for-longer rate environment. The speakers also share observations on conference dynamics, client engagement, and the overall improvement in industry confidence compared to prior years.Key PointsInterest rate volatility, inflation pressures, and geopolitical impactsKey economic indicators including PCE inflation and employment dataIndustry themes from the MBA Secondary Conference, including non-QM growth and technology adoptionChapters00:00 - Market Update and Rate Environment14:41 - MBA Secondary Conference Overview24:45 - Technology, Non-QM, and Industry OutlookOptimal Insights TeamJim Glennon, Senior Vice President, Hedging & Trading OperationsJames Cahill, MSF/MSR Account ManagerAlex Hebner, Hedge Account ManagerVimi Vasudeva, Managing Director, Hedging & Trading OperationsProduction 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