In this week’s MikeDrop, we’re condensing an insightful conversation with John Toohig, Managing Director at Raymond James and a distinguished leader in the world of whole loan trading. John joined us after the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) National Convention in Denver, Colorado, bringing with him both an optimistic outlook and a wealth of market knowledge that every mortgage and lending professional needs. Known for his strategic vision and hands-on experience with residential mortgages, consumer lending, and innovative fintech solutions, John discusses the key takeaways from this year’s convention and offers predictions for what’s coming in 2025.
Reflecting on the noticeable shift in tone from past conventions, John highlights how the industry mood was significantly more upbeat this year. After a period of somber outlooks, the positive energy in Denver signals a strong outlook for the mortgage and lending landscape in the year ahead. John reveals Raymond James' latest approaches to adapting loan products amid economic volatility, inflation concerns, and ever-evolving consumer needs. With his guidance, listeners will understand how to navigate the complexities of both the primary and secondary loan markets and capitalize on emerging opportunities in a competitive field.
Throughout this MikeDrop, John’s passion for lending innovation shines as he discusses the rapid advancements shaping the industry, from fintech to regulatory compliance. In particular, John explores the role of inflation in consumer finance, explaining how inflationary pressures affect everything from mortgage rates to loan demand across different segments, including credit cards, auto loans, and more. For lenders and industry leaders, John’s insights into the careful balance between regulatory demands and technological growth are invaluable as they consider how best to prepare for the coming changes. As John explains, the key is to remain flexible and forward-thinking, while focusing on customer needs and maintaining a community-oriented approach to lending.
An especially compelling part of John’s conversation revolves around his management of Raymond James' Whole Loan Trading Group, where he oversees the daily trading of whole loan packages, portfolio analysis, transaction management, and structured loan products. With John’s expertise, the Raymond James team has honed its approach to structuring loans that not only meet immediate market demand but also provide sustainable value for lenders and investors alike. John’s focus on seasoned loan products, fintech lending, and “scratch and dent” loans offers listeners a rare glimpse into the intricate details of whole loan trading, portfolio customization, and innovative structuring that sets Raymond James apart in a competitive market.
For anyone dealing with QM (Qualified Mortgage) and non-QM loans, John’s discussion is especially relevant, covering how nontraditional loan products continue to gain traction amid the evolving landscape of consumer finance. He shares Raymond James’ philosophy on balancing these non-QM options with the more traditional offerings, giving listeners insight into how they might diversify portfolios while mitigating risk. John’s expertise in this area extends to his commentary on fintech's role in lending, where he touches on the power of digital innovation to enhance the customer experience, streamline operations, and create new lending opportunities in a crowded market.
Finally, this episode offers more than just market projections; it includes practical advice for staying competitive and community-focused. With inflation concerns still relevant and the upcoming election season expected to affect lending trends, John’s advice resonates on a broader scale. He discusses Raymond James’ strategy to stay adaptable, both through internal innovation and community engagement, highlighting how these elements come together to create an environment that is both supportive of client needs and proactive in responding to economic challenges.
Tune in to this MikeDrop for a streamlined but powerful dose of John Toohig’s expertise. His clear and forward-thinking approach will leave you with insights to tackle both current industry challenges and the emerging trends of 2025 with confidence. Whether you’re interested in mortgage lending, consumer finance, or just staying ahead in a dynamic market, John’s perspective is essential listening for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of whole loan trading and consumer lending in the year ahead.
