In the latest episode of WFG Insights, WFG Founder and Chairman Patrick Stone joins host Brian Bushlach for a wide-ranging conversation on the economic outlook for 2026, the future of real estate and mortgage markets, and the leadership principles needed to navigate continued uncertainty.
Stone describes 2025 as a volatile, “neutral” economic year shaped by shifting trade policies, rapid AI adoption, and persistent uncertainty. Looking ahead, he projects modest economic growth in 2026—around two to three percent—but cautions that high national debt and ongoing uncertainty will likely keep interest rates from falling meaningfully. While rates under 5.5% are unlikely in the near term, Stone emphasizes that affordability can still improve if earnings continue to outpace inflation and home price appreciation.
The conversation also explores why increased housing inventory has not led to major price declines, the ongoing industry reset and consolidation across real estate, lending, and title, and the critical role technology—and especially artificial intelligence—will play in improving efficiency. Stone shares how WFG is already using AI to automate order opening, streamline buyer and seller packages, and accelerate underwriting workflows, dramatically reducing errors, time, and cost.
Beyond market fundamentals, Stone delivers a powerful message on leadership. He urges leaders to communicate openly and consistently during downturns, treat planning as a dynamic process, and invest in employee development and training. He underscores that trust, transparency, and people-to-people relationships will remain central to the real estate transaction, even as automation and AI continue to evolve.
Stone closes with a cautiously optimistic outlook: while 2026 may not be a breakout year, it should be marginally better than 2025, with stronger momentum expected in 2027. His message to industry professionals is clear—opportunities still exist, even in uncertain times, for those who stay focused, adaptable, and engaged.
Watch the full episode to hear Patrick Stone’s insights on where the market is headed—and what it will take to lead successfully through the next phase of the real estate cycle.