In this episode of Lykken on Lending, we sit down with Pavan Agarwal, CEO of Angel AI, for a high-impact conversation on how artificial intelligence and blockchain are not just disrupting—but redefining—the mortgage industry. Broadcasting from Washington, D.C., Pavan shares insights from his recent visit to Capitol Hill, where he helped shape national conversations around crypto regulation and responsible AI innovation. From the transparent launch of the Angel AI token to real-world housing solutions powered by blockchain, this episode explores how tech, policy, and purpose are converging to transform the future of homeownership in America.

The Lykken on Lending Weekly Mortgage Update delivers expert commentary and timely insights from across the mortgage industry. Each episode features a curated lineup of respected thought leaders and analysts:

• Adam DeSanctis with the MBA Mortgage Minute, providing key updates from the Mortgage Bankers Association.
• Les Parker’s TMSpotlight offers a macroeconomic perspective with his signature musical parodies.
• Matt Graham of MBS Live, breaking down market activity and interest rate movements.
• David Kittle, CEO of The Mortgage Collaborative, sharing insights on mortgage originations and industry trends.
• Alice Alvey of Union Home Mortgage, delivering essential regulatory and legislative updates.
• Allen Pollack, with the Tech Report, spotlighting emerging technologies impacting mortgage operations.
• Bill Corbet, presenting Bill's Bullet Commentary with focused insights on loan servicing and capital markets.
• Marc Helm, offering Marc’s Rant, an unfiltered take on operational and agency-related developments.

Together, this expert panel brings clarity, relevance, and a touch of personality to the ever-evolving mortgage landscape.

As the mortgage industry grapples with rising delinquencies, affordability challenges, and conflicting economic signals, this week’s Lykken on Lending roundtable digs deep into the crosscurrents shaping the market. From the fallout of a $5 trillion tax bill to the Fed’s increasingly scrutinized stance on rate cuts, our experts explore how political pressure, global deflation from China, and shifting investor sentiment are impacting rates, housing demand, and credit risk. With FHA delinquencies nearing 12%, warehouse liquidity concerns bubbling up, and the cost to own now nearly double the cost to rent, the conversation turns toward what it will take to restore balance — and whether policymakers are equipped to lead the way.