The Fed’s anticipated 25-basis point hike to 3.75%–4.00% was less consequential than its increasingly hawkish outlook, with 16 of 18 policymakers projecting at least one more hike in 2026 and higher growth, inflation, and long-run rate forecasts reinforcing a higher-for-longer stance, leaving markets focused on the potential for one to two additional hikes and the implications for duration, Treasuries, Agency MBS, and already-elevated mortgage rates. Robbie interviews Mortgage Nerd Group’s Denise Donoghue on how top brokers are leveraging technology and deciding where to broker loans. And August data underscored resilient U.S. consumer demand, with retail sales and core spending materially exceeding expectations, while rising import and export prices pointed to renewed price pressures, weaker housing sentiment highlighted ongoing softness in the housing sector, and strong inventory accumulation provided near-term GDP support but could become a drag if consumer demand moderates.

This week’s podcasts are sponsored by FirstClose. FirstClose helps lenders accelerate home equity originations with faster property decisioning, streamlined workflows, and a digital borrower experience from application to closing. FirstClose is the only end-to-end digital HELOC and HEL solution built specifically for home equity lending. Learn more at: https://hubs.ly/Q04tLGXh0

Welcome to The Chrisman Commentary, your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.