Annual Convention

With the 2012 presidential election teetering on a knife’s edge, the economy’s performance in the months ahead may well decide if President Obama wins re-election. As a finalist for Pulitzers for his coverage of the 1996 and 2004 presidential elections, Ronald Brownstein will provide an expert view of the 2012 election and who he believes will win the White House. Get the inside scoop as Brownstein provides analysis on the candidates’ policies and the impact each could have on the economy.

Doug Duncan
Chief Economist, Fannie Mae

Cautious Optimism for Continued Gradual Healing of Housing
Moderate economic growth is expected throughout the remainder of 2012, but fiscal issues in Europe and a decelerating trend in hiring could have a massive drag on the U.S. economy. Meanwhile, the housing market has performed relatively well in the current environment supported by record affordability and very low interest rates. What does this all mean for the industry heading into 2013? Duncan, one of the most accurate economists in the country, will share why there’s cautious optimism for the housing market. Make sure you don’t miss this informative session to help you build your business plan for 2013.

Governor Frank Keating
President and CEO American Bankers Association

Mortgage Reform into 2013
Reforms stemming from the Dodd-Frank Act will fundamentally change every aspect of the mortgage business. Some of these reforms are already underway, such as the merger of RESPA and TILA mortgage disclosure forms, which will replace the current HUD-1, GFE and TIL disclosures. Additionally, there are a slew of new proposals due soon and will carry the reform process into 2013. Don’t miss this informative general session as Keating shares his members’ concerns about this uncertainty in the marketplace, as well as how these reforms will impact operations and availability to credit in the future.