Optimal Blue

This February, join us where the future of mortgage technology comes to life. The 2026 Optimal Blue Summit is a launchpad for what's next in capital markets. Hear expert perspectives at the Optimal Blue Summit, February 23 to 25 at Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, from our featured speakers. Robert Broeksmit, President and CEO, Mortgage Bankers Association Michael Fratantoni, Chief Economist, Mortgage Bankers Association Sarah Wheeler, Editor in Chief, HousingWire Joe Tyrrell, CEO, Optimal Blue Erin Wester, Chief Product Officer, Optimal Blue Michael Phelps, Olympic legend and philanthropist Use code Thankful26 for discounted pricing. Register now: Summit.OptimalBlue.com See you in Scottsdale!

Investor-focused lending is evolving, and DSCR loans are becoming a cornerstone of non-QM strategies. As reported by Brad Finkelstein of National Mortgage News, Optimal Blue’s latest data shows a notable year-over-year increase in DSCR locks.    “In October, the non-QM share of total rate lock volume hovered near its recent peak at 8%," Brennan O'Connell said. "DSCR loans, which represent nearly 30% of total non-QM lock activity tracked by Optimal Blue, were up more than 50% in October versus the same time last year.”   Read more in the full article: https://lnkd.in/eFYnscYH

Agency MBS executions expanded to 46% in October – up 400 bps – as lenders leaned further into securitization. With 81% of loans sold at top-tier pricing, lenders demonstrated disciplined execution and strong investor confidence. Explore more capital markets trends in this month’s Market Advantage data report → https://lnkd.in/ezrkWubX

Jim Glennon, Alexander Hebner, and James Cahill break down the latest mortgage market moves in this week’s Optimal Insights episode. The team covers the government funding resolution, shifting Fed expectations, and affordability challenges shaping the housing industry. Then, stick around for the Market Advantage segment with Michael Vough and Brennan O'Connell, where we unpack October’s production trends, rate dynamics, and secondary market insights. Read the full recap for more. Follow Optimal Blue for weekly updates and subscribe to Optimal Insights wherever you get your podcasts.

Tomorrow’s the day! Are you using your mortgage servicing rights (MSRs) to drive real results? Join Optimal Blue experts Vimi Vasudeva, Brad Eskridge, and Tony Paciente for MSR 101 on Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. CT. 🔹 Understand key assumptions that factor into MSR valuations 🔹 Explore valuation methods in today’s dynamic market Register today: https://lnkd.in/eUXvNx58

This week at the Mortgage Bankers Association’s Accounting and Financial Management Conference, industry leaders are discussing how to navigate some of the toughest challenges in mortgage finance. If you’re attending, don’t miss Optimal Blue Head of Corporate Strategy Michael Vough on Thursday at 11:30 AM for the panel: Thin Margins, Smart Moves – Driving Profit in Mortgage Production You’ll walk away with actionable strategies to optimize gain-on-sale performance, manage risk, and contain costs in today’s market.

Lock loans anytime, anywhere. Borrowers expect speed. Now you can deliver it with Mobile Locking in the Optimal Blue mobile app. ✅ Lock loans on the go ✅ Access your pipeline, update details, run pricing ✅ Fast, secure, and included for all PPE users No browser workarounds. Use a native iOS and Android app built for speed and security. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eBD9hK6n

We’re proud to be a sponsor of Freddie Mac CONNECT in Austin this week! This is a great conference delivering actionable insights on the forever-changing housing market, best practices for leveraging innovative solutions, and exclusive networking opportunities with Freddie Mac leaders.

Government’s Back, Fed’s Talking, FHFA’s Buzzing + Market Advantage Joins Optimal Insights | November 17, 2025 In this episode of Optimal Insights, Jim Glennon, Alex Hebner, and James Cahill analyze the reopening of the U.S. government, delayed economic data, October’s labor market challenges, and more. The new Market Advantage segment with Mike Vough and Brennan O’Connell highlights October’s mortgage production trends, rate movements, and servicing strategy shifts. Optimal Insights Team: • Jim Glennon, VP of Hedging & Trading Client Services • Alexander Hebner, Hedge Account Manager • James Cahill, MSF/MSR Account Manager Market Advantage Section: • Michael Vough, Head of Corporate Strategy • Brennan O'Connell O’Connell, Director of Data Solutions Production Team: • Executive Producer: Sara Holtz • Producer: Matt Gilhooly🎙 Commentary included in the podcast shall not be construed as, nor is Optimal Insights providing, any legal, trading, hedging, or financial advice.

We’re proud to sponsor Constellation HomeBuilder Systems' Build Smarter 2025 Conference! If you’re attending, get ready for three days of innovation, learning, and connections to help you navigate change and seize new opportunities.