CRE | Weekly update (vol. 1)

CEO confidence rises in first quarter, more hiring expected in 2018.

The Conference Board Review reported that its measure of CEO Confidence rose to 67 in the first quarter, up from 65 in the prior (any reading above 50 is positive) More CEOs report confidence in their own industry (51% now versus 49% before) and expect to do more hiring in '18

Overall, net investment from corporations could drive the biggest gains that will benefit CRE in '18. This is a positive measure for the rest of the year.

Retail may hold hidden opportunities, according to Real Capital Analytics

Real Capital Analytics reported that mall sales are being priced in a bifurcated fashion. So-called dead malls are tracing at $5-$20 per square feet, while successful luxury malls are trading at $400 to $800 per square feet.

While this study focused on malls, the point is very likely valid across all types of retail in many markets large and small. There are great investment deals in retail.