“My boss pulled up in his brand-new BMW today and I couldn’t help but admire it. “Nice car,” I said as he got out. “Well,” he said, noticing my admiring looks, “Work hard, put the hours in, and I’ll have an even better one next year.” A relationship with one’s boss is an interesting thing. Thank you to Ken S. who passed along, “Can Trump fire Fed chair Jerome Powell?” (Probably not without the Supreme Court.) The U.S. economy could slow unless interest rates are lowered immediately, President Trump said yesterday, repeating his criticism of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who says rates should not be lowered until it is clearer Trump's tariff plans won't lead to a persistent surge in inflation. "With these costs trending so nicely downward, just what I predicted they would do, there can almost be no inflation, but there can be a SLOWING of the economy unless Mr. Too Late, a major loser, lowers interest rates, NOW," Trump said in a post on Truth Social. The economy is only one part of the Trump Administration changes, and Attorney Brian Levy’s latest Mortgage Musings is out, loaded with explanations about the CFPB whipsawing and some scary prospects for the GSEs. He also discusses the shadowy new unregulated world of fast-food financing. (Today’s podcast can be found here and this week is sponsored by nCino, makers of the nCino Mortgage Suite for the modern mortgage lender. nCino Mortgage Suite's core products unite the people, systems, and stages of the mortgage process. Hear an interview with Polunsky Beitel Green’s Peter Idziak on IMBs expanding into territory traditionally reserved for depositories and overall lender expansion into a fuller suite of products out of competitive necessity.)
Software, Products, and Services for Lenders and Brokers
Rocket Mortgage just made headlines (again)! Through its two recent acquisitions, Rocket has made it clear: the future of mortgage belongs to those who can centralize the entire client journey, from lead to loyalty, into one seamless experience. CANDID partners with mortgage organizations like Atlantic Bay Mortgage, Steadfast Mortgage, and Jet Home Loans to power a purpose-built mortgage marketing and sales operating system, enabling future-focused companies to fully own the entire client journey and LO experience. Top lenders are replacing disjointed systems with one seamless operating system, cutting tech costs, boosting productivity, and equipping LOs with the tools to close more loans and build lifelong client relationships. If you’re ready to modernize your tech stack and take full ownership of the borrower journey, let’s talk. Visit CANDID or contact Brad Bieber, Head of Sales to get started.
Lenders today face no shortage of challenges (navigating evolving regulations, strengthening cybersecurity, modernizing core systems, and maintaining best-in-class customer service), all while being pushed to the max. That’s why top financial institutions are turning to subservicers like Servbank. As the nation’s premier bank subservicer, Servbank helps lenders streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance the customer experience, so you can focus on what really matters: growing your business. Servbank is uniquely positioned to deliver superior subservicing performance alongside commercial banking products, backed by the strength and stability of a depository institution. With ratings from S&P, Fitch, and Morningstar, plus a perfect IDC score of 300, we offer the reliability you need in today’s dynamic market. Click here to read Servbank’s 6 reasons for working with a subservicer is the right move.
Stock market volatility, tariffs, interest rates, low inventory… so many challenges, let’s talk about it. Join Castor Financial’s President Brooks Champagne, and VP of Product and Pricing, Matthew Craybas, with special guest Rob Chrisman in a discussion about Navigating the Mortgage Market in 2025 this Thursday April 24th at 9am (PST). Listen as these industry leaders analyze the hurdles defining the current market. Want to know how the best in the mortgage business are navigating today's market and achieving remarkable results? This webinar pulls back the curtain on their real-world tactics and innovative approaches. Don't miss this. Register at castorloans.com/webinars.
Curious about the latest updates in Encompass®? Nancy Alley, VP of Product Strategy at ICE Mortgage Technology, recently shared an in-depth look at the platform's newest enhancements and offered a sneak peek at the innovative solutions on the horizon. Her blog also highlights how these advancements are enabling lenders to achieve an average 5:1 return on their technology investments. Read the blog now to discover how ICE is transforming the loan manufacturing process through strategic investments in Encompass.
“When did you last review your compliance policies? If you’re like most lenders, this annual requirement likely took a backseat to all the other demands on your business these past few years. If it’s been a while, chances are your policies are outdated… Let’s fix that. With Firstline Compliance, you can skip the time-consuming and costly process of reviewing, updating, and rewriting policies. Our battle-tested policies have helped many lenders pass examinations, Agency, and state license application approvals, giving you the fastest and most reliable way to stay compliant. Now’s the time to get back on track. Contact Ashley Bradford at 469-717-4232 to secure your compliant, up-to-date policies and protect your business.”
Correspondent and Wholesale Program News
“Expand Your Product Offerings with Lakeview Correspondent! Are you looking to enhance your product lineup? Let’s connect! Lakeview Correspondent invites you to meet with us at the New York MBA Secondary Conference, May 18-21. This is a great opportunity to engage with industry leaders like yourself, whether to explore innovative products or discuss potential collaborations with a trusted liquidity provider. We’d love to connect, learn more about your goals, and explore ways to create mutual success. Request a meeting today!”
“Logan Finance's comprehensive non-QM suite provides solutions for borrowers who don't fit conventional guidelines. From Bank Statement and P&L loans for self-employed professionals to DSCR options for real estate investors, we work hard to make non-QM easy. Our flexible solutions include Foreign National programs with no U.S. credit required and Asset Qualification loans leveraging liquid assets rather than income. With loan amounts up to $3 million and competitive terms, we're your trusted non-QM partner. Connect with our experts at these upcoming industry events: Spring CAMP in Sacramento (May 6) and California Mortgage Expo in Irvine (May 8, Booth 940). Experience our high-touch service, industry expertise, and scenario desk support that sets us apart. Explore our full Non-QM product suite or email us to learn more.”
New CalHFA Product Rollout: Get CalReady with Kind TPO! Kind TPO is CalReady to help you close more deals with powerful new CalHFA products! Whether your borrower needs Conventional or FHA solutions, we’ve got you covered with bold benefits: CalReady Conventional & FHA – First-time buyer not required! Up to 105% CLTV, DTI to 50%, and no recapture tax. CalPLUS Access Conventional & FHA – Must be a first-time buyer, but includes MyHome + MyAccess for boosted down payment support: All loans: SFRs, Condos, and Manufactured Homes allowed, AUS-friendly (DU, LPA, even manual in some cases!), and Flexible guidelines, competitive structure, and NO first-time buyer requirement on CalReady if no subordinate financing used. Whether you're helping first-time buyers or repeat purchasers, Kind TPO makes CalHFA simple. Have questions? Talk to your Kind AE. Price your next CalHFA loan in Kwikie today! Not approved yet? Click here to get started!
Margin Management in Volatile Markets
In a mortgage landscape increasingly defined by volatility and unpredictability, James Baublitz delivers a grounded, no-nonsense perspective in “Staying the Course: Managing Risk and Margin in Volatile Mortgage Markets.” Baublitz cuts through the market noise to remind industry professionals that success doesn't come from risky bets or market timing. It comes from unwavering discipline, smart risk management, and a relentless focus on fundamentals. This is a must-read for capital markets teams looking to navigate today’s turbulence with clarity and control.
Training and Webcasts This Week
A good place for longer term conference planning is to start is here for in-person events in the future; and organizers can post their event!
In today's episode of MortgagePros411, at 2PM ET, Audrey and Kevin talk with return-guest, Mark McArdle (now with NewRez), about his departure from the CFPB and his insights on today’s shifting housing finance landscape. Their conversation will cover industry consolidation, the future of mortgages, and the changes reshaping how lenders operate.
National MI April 2025 webinar sessions: Dealing with Difficult People with Andrew Oxley, April 22 at 2 pm ET.
Never Miss an Opportunity with Loan Product Advisor (LPA): Using Caution Messages to your Advantage, Tuesday, April 22, 1:00 - 1:45 p.m. ET. Learn about the LPA Choice℠ and LPA Caution Factor messages on your Loan Product Advisor feedback certificate. Understand how these messages provide information that can help quickly identify the reason for Caution and provide actionable feedback.
Looking for more in-depth commentary on weekly mortgage news? Register here for Wednesday the 2nd at 11AM PT "Mortgage Matters: The Weekly Roundup” presented by Lenders One! Tomorrow’s features veteran CrossCountry Mortgage originator and manager Tony Russo.
Join RegCheck by Asurity and partners for a live webinar on April 23 from 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM ET - Federal Agencies in Transition: Key Changes at the CFPB and Beyond Under the New Administration. During the webinar you’ll hear from industry thought leaders as they unpack the latest updates from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and other federal agencies under the new administration and share how these developments affect businesses, consumers, and the future of regulatory compliance. Reserve your spot today!
“The Loan Store Presents “DSCR Done Right,” an April 23rd Webinar Hosted by National Mortgage Professional. Mark your calendar for April 23rd! The Loan Store is teaming up with National Mortgage Professional to bring you a powerful Deal Desk Webinar: “DSCR Done Right.” This live session is your chance to dive deep into DSCR loans, learn how to avoid common missteps, and get expert guidance on structuring investor deals that close with confidence. DSCR Done Right is more than a guideline review. It’s a strategy session designed to help you win. Join us on Tuesday, April 23rd and take your DSCR game to the next level. Registration is now open… Don’t miss it!”
On Thursday, April 24th at 9am (PST), Castor Financial is presenting a live webinar: Navigating the Mortgage Market in 2025: A Discussion Featuring Insights from Rob Chrisman. Join renowned industry commentator Rob Chrisman as he teams up with Castor Financial's President, Brooks Champagne, and VP of Product and Pricing, Matthew Craybas. This expert panel will discuss the challenges shaping the 2025 mortgage landscape. Tune in to catch the real-world tactics and innovative approaches top originators are using to overcome obstacles and achieve success in today’s market. Don't miss this forward-looking discussion packed with actionable insights designed specifically for mortgage brokers. Visit castorloans.com/webinars to register.
Join MMBA for a 6–8-part series of webinars discussing affordable lending in Massachusetts.
MMBA Affordable Lending Summit Starts on April 23rd, 10 AM -11 AM, Part 1, What is Massachusetts doing for Affordable Housing? Hear from The Massachusetts Housing Plan – Secretary Edward Augustus, Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities. (Part 2 FHLB Boston: Expanding Homeownership, April 29th, 10:00 AM -11:00 AM.)
ValTrends webinar is coming up: Register here to attend. What's ahead for commercial real estate (CRE) markets in 2025? Join “ValTrends First Look” webinar on April 24, at 2pm ET, hosted by Senior Director of SitusAMC Insights Peter Muoio, PhD and Vice President of SitusAMC Insights Jennifer Rasmussen, PhD. This webinar will leverage up-to-the-minute survey data of leading institutional and regional CRE executives and our own proprietary research to give you a forward-looking snapshot of the quarter ahead.
Thursday will be another episode of The Big Picture at 3PM ET. Rich Swerbinsky hosts a variety of guests. You can click here to register for Thursday’s 3 PM ET show featuring Bernard Nossuli and Larid Nossuli with iEmergent
Friday the 25th on Last Word, Brian Vieaux, Christy Soukhamneut, Kevin Peranio, and Courtney Thompson discuss the recent decision by the Federal Housing Finance Agency to end Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's down payment and closing-cost assistance programs for first-time homebuyers. They'll explore the potential impact on affordability, the housing market, and the future of government-backed homeownership support.
Capital Markets
“What is maximizing your execution all about in today’s markets? At Vice Capital Markets, we don’t just talk about execution… We live it by helping lenders make the leap from best efforts to mandatory execution and thrive. With more than $1 trillion in MBS trades and over two decades of experience, our team delivers smart strategies, innovative tools and hands-on support to elevate your performance in the secondary market. Our clients don’t just stay. They grow. That’s been the Vice difference for 25 years. Are you going to MBA Secondary in NYC? Be our guest at The Mortgage Collaborative party on May 20 at the Landshark Rooftop Bar and Grill. Vice is proud to co-sponsor, and we’d love to see you there! Can’t make it? Schedule time with Troy Baars or Chris Bennett to explore how Vice Capital can help transform your execution strategy.
Amid mounting pressure over the economic fallout from his trade policies, President Trump has shifted focus to interest rates, openly criticizing Fed Chair Powell for not lowering them and suggesting he could be removed from his post. (Let's set aside that lower rates would be inflationary when tariffs are already expected to be inflationary.) While the president lacks explicit authority to fire the Fed Chair without cause, White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett confirmed the administration is exploring legal avenues to do so, reigniting concerns about the Federal Reserve’s independence. Trump’s rhetoric has heightened fears that any attempt to oust Powell could erode market confidence and destabilize U.S. assets, particularly given the administration’s broader efforts to challenge the tenure of other federal officials through the courts.
Philadelphia Fed non-manufacturing for April kicked off today’s economic calendar. Later today brings Redbook same store sales, Richmond Fed manufacturing and services for April, Treasury activity that will be headlined by $69 billion 2-year notes and a buyback for liquidity purposes in 3- to 5-year coupons for up to $4 billion, and a packed calendar of Fed speakers (Jefferson, Harker, Kashkari, Barkin, and Kugler). Today is also Class D 48-hours. Without any meaningful data on today’s schedule, we begin Tuesday with Agency MBS prices roughly unchanged from Monday afternoon, the 2-year yielding 3.79, and the 10-year yielding 4.39 after closing yesterday at 4.41 percent.
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