Among the noteworthy quotes from this week's stories was economist Bernard Baumohl comparing the U.S. economy to the theme from the Jaws movie.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“If the U.S. economy was a movie, you’d hear the Jaws theme.
You’d have the feeling something is going to break.” – Bernard Baumohl, The
Economic Outlook Group Read story
“We are strategically refining our portfolio with one clear
objective: to maximize its value for our shareholders. This divestiture will
help us to ensure that a future sale of the company results in the best
possible outcome for our investors.” – Richard Stockton, Braemar Hotels &
Resorts Read story
“When I think about a two-year hold or a five-year hold,
trying to anticipate your cash basis on the other side and where your levered
returns might be, is a lot harder to predict and forecast accurately.” – Dave
Pollin, Buccini Pollin Group|PM Hotel Group
Read story
“We’re getting to a point where debt yields and cap rates on
some assets are starting to converge in such a way that it makes a heck of a
lot more sense for a buyer to refinance and own the upside, as opposed to sell
right at a cap rate that’s relatively close to the debt yield where you can get
a loan.” – Kevin Davis, JLL Hotels & Hospitality Read story
“They could be in college towns, they could be beachside or
by a national park or near a landmark that has its own unique identity. There’s
clearly a void. We are the only hotel company, with the launch of Dazzler
Select, to cater to soft brands in all segments: economy, midscale, upscale and
upper upscale. This is why we believe there’s a need for a soft brand in this
segment.” – Amit Sripathi, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Read story
“Independent hotels thrive when they can preserve their
unique character while tapping into the power of a global hospitality leader. With
Outset Collection, we are offering owners the flexibility they want without
compromising on quality. By combining one-of-a-kind properties with Hilton’s
powerful commercial engine and commitment to exceptional product, service, and
technology, we’re elevating our value proposition across the board.” – Chris Silcock,
Hilton Read story
“When we seek a new investment, we consider the highest and
best use for that asset within all of our core competencies. This includes
converting an out-of-favor hotel to residential use. This works primarily in
urban locations where there’s an imbalance of housing inventory and high
barriers to entry.” – Leonard Ross, Hawkins Way Capital Read story
“America's Best Value Studios by Sonesta represents a
strategic evolution of our trusted America's Best Value Inn brand. We are
expanding our offerings to directly address the increasing demand within the
extended-stay segment, providing a practical and comfortable solution for
travelers seeking longer-term lodging at an exceptional value.” – Keith Pierce,
Sonesta International Hotels Corp. Read
story
“We’re looking at restructuring our balance sheet from a
financial perspective and trying to reduce debt, also releasing some capital
for expansion in the future. The REIT fits in really well.” – Dillip Rajakarier Read story
“The director should conduct a P&L analysis to determine
if the cost of pre-approved vendors and suppliers can be shouldered by the
local market. Having such a person will help prevent costly mistakes in
pre-opening construction.” – René J.M. Schillings Read story
“Looking ahead, the outlook remains cautious. Flat
government per diems, inflationary pressures and potential job losses could
further limit demand, particularly among lower-priced segments that surged due
to hurricane-related travel last year.” – CBRE Hotels Read story
“The meetings industry continues to face challenges related
to rising costs, with 38% of respondents listing it as the top challenge of
2026, prompting professionals to explore innovative budget management
strategies.” – Amex GBT Read story