HousingWire Daily What a united Fed could mean for mortgage rates
8 snips
Jan 29, 2026 
Logan Mohtashami, lead housing analyst known for data-driven mortgage and Fed commentary. He breaks down the Fed’s unity and its implications for future rate cuts. He walks through market reactions, mortgage-rate calm, and why purchase applications and spring housing demand look stronger. Short, clear takes with a touch of travel and light banter.
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Fed Unity Suggests Limited Cuts
- The Fed showed unusual unity with a 10-2 vote against immediate cuts, signaling restrained easing.
- Logan Mohtashami warns that this unity likely limits cuts to about two this year unless labor market weakens significantly.
Powell's Exit Shapes Chair Race Dynamics
- A unified Fed reduces the chance of aggressive rate cuts even under a new chair, constraining policy shifts.
- Mohtashami notes Christopher Waller's rising odds and the political chess around Powell's departure affecting future tone.
Jobless Claims Are The Fed's North Star
- The Fed is weighing labor market data heavily, especially jobless claims, before easing.
- Because jobless claims remain historically low, Mohtashami expects the Fed to take more time before cutting rates.