Rate Risks + Under-the-Radar Indicators | Optimal Insights | Apr 21, 2026

Welcome to this week’s episode of Optimal Insights. In this episode, the Optimal Insights team discusses market updates, key factors that could influence interest rates, and several underappreciated economic indicators they monitor to add context beyond headline data. They share their expert opinions and insights into how these factors are shaping the industry and the broader economic landscape.Key Points:A market update on mortgage rates and Treasury trendsDiscussion of potential risks to interest rates, including policy and geopolitical uncertaintyUnderappreciated economic indicators that may provide additional market contextChapters: 00:00 – Market update and current backdrop12:46 – Potential risks to interest rates21:58 – Underappreciated economic indicators to watchOptimal Insights Team: Jim Glennon, SVP, Hedging & Trading OperationsAlex Hebner, Hedge Account ManagerJames Cahill, MSF/MSR Account ManagerKevin Foley, Director of Product ManagementProduction 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: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