New year, same markets: calm tape, big consequences.
Markets are opening 2026 in “selective risk-on” mode: Asia is higher on AI and semis, volatility is calm, and this week’s data—especially Friday’s jobs report—could move rates fast. We cover mortgage and CRE rate context, the AI infrastructure deal flow behind SoftBank’s DigitalBridge move, a defense/space M&A headline, and the one workflow you should run today: a 15-minute delivery risk audit for every sponsor in your pipeline. Plus, a nod to SIMERP—the no-cost employee benefit program that can save $630 per year in taxes—as a practical retention lever for operators.
Until tomorrow, be the…
The skinny
The skinny isn't ready yet — notes appear once the transcript is processed.