Mortgage Credit Scoring Update: VantageScore, Classic FICO, FICO 10T | March 31

Welcome to this week’s episode of Optimal Insights. In this episode, the speakers discuss mortgage credit scoring and credit reporting, including how Classic FICO compares with newer models often referenced in the industry such as VantageScore and FICO 10T. They share their expert opinions and insights into how these factors are shaping the industry and the broader economic landscape. Key Points:Why credit scoring competition and modernization remain active topics in mortgagesHow newer scoring approaches are often described, including trended data and added inputsWhat questions remain for adoption, pricing, and consistency across the market Optimal Insights Team:Jim Glennon, SVP, Hedging and Trading OperationsAlex Hebner, Hedge Account ManagerJames Cahill, MSF/MSR Account Manager Production Team:Executive Producer: Sara HoltzProducer: Matt Gilhooly Commentary 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:Optimal Blue Study - MarketWise AdvisorsMortgage capital markets decisions have a direct impact on lender profitability, efficiency, and risk management. To better understand that impact, Optimal Blue commissioned an independent ROI study with MarketWise Advisors, analyzing data from hundreds of mortgage lenders, including banks, credit unions, and independent mortgage banks. The Optimal Blue ROI Study highlights consistent gains in operational efficiency, pricing accuracy, and financial performance for lenders using Optimal Blue technology. Key findings include an average $1,006 net financial benefit per loan, nearly 45% greater operational capacity, and strong return on investment reported by PPE clients, with results consistent across lender types. The full 2026 Optimal Blue ROI Study will be released in May and provides a data‑driven look at how mortgage capital markets technology can support better execution and decision‑making. 👉 Sign up to be notified when the full report is released: OptimalBlue.com/2026-study ROI Study