Connect with us

Technology

LightBox December CRE Activity Index Declines, Capping a Year of Volatility Amid Long-Term Optimism

Published

on

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LightBox, a leading provider of commercial real estate (CRE) information and technology, released its Monthly CRE Activity Index for December, which posted a reading of 56.8, reflecting a 23.7-point month-over-month decline. The Index remained above its levels from the same period in 2023, reflecting resilience in the CRE market despite the typical seasonal downturn.

This aggregate measure of activity in commercial property listings, environmental due diligence, and appraisals collectively tracks shifts in the velocity of key functions that support CRE transactions and therefore provides a useful leading indicator of deal activity.

While seasonal moderation is expected at year-end, this decline was steeper than the average 19.3-point drop seen over the prior three years. Contributing to the decline were rising treasury yields fueled by investor concerns over the federal deficit, the potential for new tariffs, and persistent inflation. The 10-year Treasury yields increased by 40 basis points, from 4.2% at the end of November to nearly 4.6% by year-end.

Shifting to a year-over-year review for broader context, the report commentary highlights the 8.6-point improvement in the CRE Activity Index compared to last December, which was fueled by double-digit increases in the property listings and environmental due diligence components of the Index. This is a notable improvement from year-end 2023 when transactions were thwarted by still-high interest rates, tight debt capital as lenders held fast to the reins of new originations, and sellers were reluctant to list properties given the lack of pricing clarity.

“Heading into January, it’s encouraging to witness property listing activity gaining momentum as sellers brought assets to market during the closing weeks of a challenging fourth quarter,” said Manus Clancy, LightBox head of Data Strategy. “On the ground, our Market Advisory Councils for capital markets and environmental due diligence are observing increased portfolio activity, growing interest from institutional investors, and renewed engagement from clients who spent much of 2024 in wait-and-see mode.”

As anticipated, December’s reading remained above the four-year low recorded in December 2023, coming in nearly nine points higher than last year’s 48.2. The report highlights that as capital mobilizes to seize opportunities and the market senses a bottom in certain segments, a fear of missing out on bargains is beginning to take hold.

“After more than a year of holding off for interest rates to decline, the market is seeing a resurgence of confidence. Investors with pent-up demand, especially those with their own capital, are pursuing deals reminiscent of those that drove late 2024 transactions. Additionally, the measured return of big banks is anticipated to boost activity across asset types, with multifamily, data centers, and retail showing strong momentum, while some office markets continue to stabilize,” said Clancy.

Read the full report

About LightBox

At LightBox, we are at the forefront of delivering advanced and precise solutions for commercial real estate intelligence. Our dedication to innovation propels real estate professionals forward by providing them with the essential tools required to navigate complex decisions, minimize risk, and boost productivity across the spectrum of real estate operations. LightBox is renowned for its commitment to promoting excellence and fostering connections in the industry, serving an extensive clientele of over 30,000 customers. Our diverse client base spans commercial and government sectors, including but not limited to brokers, developers, investors, lenders, insurers, technologists, environmental advisors, appraisers, and other businesses that depend on geospatial information. To discover more about how LightBox can illuminate the path to informed real estate solutions, visit us at: www.LightBoxRE.com

Media inquiries: media@lightboxRE.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lightbox-december-cre-activity-index-declines-capping-a-year-of-volatility-amid-long-term-optimism-302349784.html

SOURCE LightBoxRE

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Technology

Travelport Releases Second Annual State of Modern Retailing Report: ‘Travel’s Tipping Point’

Published

on

By

New proprietary research from Travelport, combined with cross-industry insights, highlights key trends that will transform the travel industry in 2025

LANGLEY, United Kingdom, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Travelport, a global technology company that powers travel bookings for hundreds of thousands of travel agencies and suppliers worldwide, today unveiled its 2025 State of Modern Retailing Report. This report, combining new proprietary research and cross-industry insights, outlines critical trends reshaping the travel industry in 2025, including heightened demand for transparency, the emergence of new subscription models, and AI-driven advancements in the travel retail experience.

“Consumers are clear about what they want from the travel industry: simplicity, transparency, and trust,” said Jen Catto, Chief Marketing and Product Officer at Travelport. “Our latest research shows that travel has reached a tipping point. Modern retailers who embrace radical transparency, adopt AI responsibly, and deliver streamlined experiences will thrive in this evolving landscape.”

Five Key Trends to Watch in 2025:

Consumer-washing ends; Radical transparency begins
Travel companies face growing criticism for “consumer washing,” a practice where businesses advertise deceptively low prices, hiding fees or conditions until checkout. Nearly half (44%) of surveyed consumers ranked airlines, hotels, and travel companies as major offenders, second only to credit card companies (45%).

Modern retailing requires honesty at every stage of the customer journey. Brands that eliminate hidden fees and agencies that present clear, comparable options across suppliers will earn customer loyalty. Radical transparency is not just a necessity—it’s a competitive advantage.

Disruptors Delivering Simplicity Will Outpace the Laggards
Fintech disruptors have reshaped banking, with 47% of consumers agreeing they’ve made personal finances easier to manage. However, the travel industry lags behind. Over half of consumers (56%) report that airline offers have become more confusing over the past decade.

To match fintech’s success, travel brands must embrace agile, API-led technology that enables seamless integration of new content, data, and features. Those who simplify the shopping experience will stand out in a crowded market.

Distribution Partnerships Drive Consumer Growth
The overwhelming number of content options across industries has led to choice overload. In streaming services, for example, 56% of consumers feel overwhelmed by the amount of content available on traditional and streaming channels, and 75% would prefer one bundled subscription.

Travel is no different. Forward-thinking companies are forming unconventional partnerships to meet consumers where they shop. For example, low-cost carriers (LCCs) are opening up their content to travel retailers, recognizing that a multi-channel approach simplifies the consumer experience while driving loyalty.

Travel Subscriptions Gain Traction
Travelers are increasingly turning to subscriptions. Online travel agencies (OTAs) like eDreams ODIGEO have demonstrated the potential of this approach, boasting more than 6.5 million Prime subscribers. Its subscription model is currently the company’s largest contributor of revenues and margins.

1 in 3 consumers (35%) surveyed said that they would consider a travel subscription in 2025, highlighting that this business model is primed for growth. Benefits such as convenience, cost savings, and exclusive perks make subscriptions a compelling alternative to traditional loyalty programs.

AI Raises the Bar for Travel Retailing
AI adoption is accelerating, with 58% of people using AI in their personal or professional lives. Travel ranks in top three industries for AI trust, with 42% of consumers trusting travel brands to use AI responsibly. In fact, 80% of frequent travelers already feel comfortable using AI for trip planning.

AI-driven tools will revolutionize travel retailing in 2025, from predicting travel behavior to curating personalized offers. For agencies, AI will simplify managing multi-source content and enable more effective customer service and upselling.

To read the full report or to learn more about Travelport, please visit Travelport.com/Trends-2025.

About Travelport
Travelport is a global technology company that powers bookings for hundreds of thousands of travel suppliers worldwide. Buyers and sellers of travel are connected by the company’s next generation marketplace, Travelport+, which simplifies how brands connect, upgrades how travel is sold, and enables modern digital retailing. Headquartered in the United Kingdom and operating in more than 165 countries around the world, Travelport is focused on driving innovation that simplifies the complex travel ecosystem.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1481912/TRAVELPORT_LOGO_BLACK_CMYK_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/travelport-releases-second-annual-state-of-modern-retailing-report-travels-tipping-point-302351283.html

Continue Reading

Technology

HONGQI Showcases Flagship Electric Vehicles at the Brussels Motor Show 2025

Published

on

By

BRUSSELS, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HONGQI, the benchmark of China’s luxury automotive industry, proudly unveils its flagship electric vehicle lineup at the Brussels Motor Show 2025, held from January 10 to 19 at the Brussels Expo. The event gathers leading automotive brands from around the globe, offering a platform to showcase cutting-edge technologies and sustainable innovation. HONGQI’s E-HS9, EH7, and EHS7 take centre stage, highlighting the brand’s excellence in design, performance, and forward-looking technology.

The E-HS9, a full-size smart electric SUV, embodies spaciousness and refinement. Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system and high-performance battery deliver exceptional power and stability. The cabin, designed with premium materials, ensures both comfort and elegance, making it a perfect choice for executives and families alike.

The EH7 is designed to meet the expectations of discerning customers in the premium upper mid-sized electric sedan. With a WLTP range of 655 km, it excels in delivering long-distance comfort. Its powerful drivetrain, producing 455 kW and 756 Nm of torque, enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, offering an exhilarating driving experience while maintaining efficiency. For those who value a combination of high performance and extended range, the EH7 is an irresistible choice.

The EHS7 is a premium upper mid-sized electric SUV that offers powerful driving performance and smooth handling. Its advanced braking system achieves a stopping distance of just 36 meters from 100 km/h, ensuring precise control and safety. As the only vehicle in its class equipped with rear-wheel steering, the EHS7 delivers exceptional agility and handling. Equipped with IPX8 waterproof battery safety features, it guarantees stable performance across various environments. With ultra-fast charging capabilities and outstanding manoeuvrability, the EHS7 is the ideal choice for drivers who prioritise practicality and superior driving dynamics.

In 2024, HONGQI captivated audiences with appearances at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Automechanika Frankfurt, and the Paris Motor Show. Each event highlighted the unique features of the E-HS9, EH7, and EHS7, demonstrating HONGQI’s global commitment to luxury EV innovation.

The HONGQI booth at the Brussels Motor Show 2025 offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the flagship models E-HS9, EH7, and EHS7 up close. Attendees can explore these models firsthand, discovering HONGQI’s dedication to luxury design, new energy innovation, and cutting-edge technology. The exhibit highlights the HONGQI’s continuous efforts to advance electric mobility and enhance premium driving experiences on a global scale.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2598627/image_5028817_33338130.jpg 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hongqi-showcases-flagship-electric-vehicles-at-the-brussels-motor-show-2025-302351621.html

Continue Reading

Technology

Start the New Year Right: Corra Group Highlights the Importance of Background Checks as Businesses Start the New Year Strong

Published

on

By

Background Checks Are Essential for Organizations Seeking to Build Trusted Teams and Create Safe Work Environments.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The start of the new year is peak season for hiring, and businesses are gearing up to tackle early-year demands for a thriving 2025. Corra Group, a nationwide provider of background checks and drug testing, highlights the critical role of background screening at the start of the new year.

“January and February are typically active months for hiring, as companies bring on new employees to drive business growth and address early-year needs,” said Nick Gustavson, Corra Group Cofounder. “Background checks not only protect a company’s reputation and provide a safe work environment, but also foster a culture of safety, compliance, and reliability for teams and customers.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, the U.S. economy added over 350,000 jobs last January, significantly surpassing forecasts. Failing to perform comprehensive background checks can lead to increased risk and turnover, costing companies time and resources. Corra Group’s streamlined background check services help companies hire with confidence, starting the year with safe, dependable, and qualified teams.

Background checks are especially important for New Year hiring, particularly after the holiday season. It is easy to move too quickly as the new year ramps up, and the post-holiday season is a great opportunity for employers to utilize background checks to reduce turnover costs, transition temporary holiday hires into permanent roles, and stay safe while expanding.

“January also typically brings the launch of hiring initiatives, restructuring, and expansion,” adds Gustavson. “This results in increased hiring and a need for integrity, professionalism, culture fit, and alignment with company values in new or expanded roles.”

2025 is also seeing many companies implementing stricter full-time Return To Office (RTO) mandates, a trend already underway at major organizations like Amazon, JPMorgan, Disney, Google, Boeing, and Apple. With employees transitioning from remote work to working full-time side by side in physical office spaces, businesses need to prioritize safety, trust, and a secure work environment. Corra Group offers a number of background check services including Criminal Checks, Nationwide Registered Sex Offender Search, Drug Testing & Alcohol ScreeningMotor Vehicle Records, Employment Verification and Social Media Background Screening.

“We hope everyone starts the new year right,” said Gustavson. “Stay safe and compliant, and we wish everyone a Happy New Year!”

About Corra Group:

Corra Group is a full-service background screening company that provides background checks and employment screening to clients throughout the United States and around the world. With over 20 years of experience, Corra Group’s goal is to help clients make informed decisions and provide a first-class candidate experience during the hiring process. It is also one of the few companies that will answer the phone. Corra Group is headquartered in El Segundo, California. To learn more, visit CorraGroup.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/start-the-new-year-right-corra-group-highlights-the-importance-of-background-checks-as-businesses-start-the-new-year-strong-302350693.html

SOURCE Corra Group

Continue Reading

Trending