The 2022 ALM First Financial Institute kicked off with an Economic Overview tailored specifically to financial institutions. After discussing the current sources of market uncertainty, Jason Haley, Chief Investment Officer for ALM First, emphasized that higher rates and wider asset spreads are positive for depositories largely funded with core deposits.
Other general sessions included a collaborative panel discussion with Freddie Mac on the State of the Mortgage Market, which focused on the shift from refinance-heavy mortgage production to purchase volume and how affordable housing ties into lending strategies, and a presentation on The Secondary Market: Loan Strategies in a Changing Landscape, which provided best practices for participations, whole loan sales and securitizations. Attendees were able to interact with speakers through the event app and live Q&A discussion.
ALM First’s Financial Institute is a three-day workshop that provides key education and timely insights designed to benefit financial depositories’ goals and strategies. This year’s conference was held in-person at the Four Seasons Resort and Club in Dallas, Texas with more than 150 financial professionals in attendance and ample networking opportunities.
With three learning tracks, Board, Fundamental and Funds Management, breakout sessions are specifically tailored to meet the knowledge level of attendees and best serve their role within the institution. This structure enhances the educational experience for everyone involved in managing or monitoring the balance sheet including CEOs, CFOs, Senior Management, Controllers, Treasury Staff, Financial Analysts, Accountants, ALCO and Board Members.
Other hot topics discussed in today’s general sessions included non-traditional investment portfolio strategies, mergers and acquisitions, and overcoming challenges in 2022, the last of which was presented by ALM First co-founder and CEO, Emily Hollis, CFA.
More information about ALM First’s Financial Institute and other educational events may be found at www.almfirst.com.