Commercial Real Estate

A JLL survey reveals a significant acceleration in AI adoption within the commercial real estate (CRE) sector. While initial focus was on cost reduction, CRE firms now view AI as crucial for revenue generation and competitive advantage. Over 88% of investors and 90% of occupiers have initiated AI pilot programs, but only 5% have achieved all objectives. Companies are shifting from simple automation to leveraging AI for complex challenges, like enhancing investment risk models. This requires significant organizational changes and investment in strategic advisory services and cybersecurity infrastructure.

Cryptocurrencies’ direct use in real estate is limited, but blockchain’s potential to revolutionize Commercial Real Estate (CRE) is significant. Experts like Tony Giordano foresee widespread adoption within a decade. Blockchain offers secure data storage for property records and facilitates tokenization, enabling fractional ownership and streamlined trading. Deloitte projects trillions of dollars in economic activity through tokenization by 2035. AI combined with blockchain can also enhance CRE finance by facilitating mortgage and interest rate transfers, avoiding prepayment penalties and freeing up capital.

Cushman & Wakefield published its 2024 Sustainability Report, highlighting progress in integrating responsible practices. Key achievements include exceeding emissions reduction targets six years early (50% reduction from 2019) and sourcing 87% corporate electricity from renewables. The report also details social initiatives like the DRIVE cultural program, positioning sustainability as a core business strategy.

Eastern Bank has appointed Joseph Rodolfy as Senior Vice President, Commercial Real Estate Relationship Manager. Rodolfy, with over 13 years of experience, will help expand the Bank’s commercial real estate services. His experience includes roles at Cambridge Savings Bank and TD Bank. Eastern Bank, founded in 1818, offers various commercial financing solutions. Rodolfy expressed enthusiasm for contributing to Eastern Bank’s success, focusing on regional growth within Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and beyond.

ACRES Commercial Realty Corp. announced cash dividends for its preferred stock, signaling confidence in the market. Series C shareholders will receive $0.6379156 per share, with a variable rate tied to Term SOFR, while Series D shareholders will receive $0.4921875 per share. Both dividends are payable July 30, 2025, to shareholders of record as of July 1, 2025. ACRES focuses on commercial real estate lending and investment.