Rate Cut, Rising Optimism, and Early Thoughts on 2026

This week on The CRE Weekly Digest by LightBox, Manus Clancy and Dianne Crocker break down the real story behind the widely anticipated 25 bps rate cut that pulled long-term Treasury yields lower and triggered a sharp stock rally. As thoughts turn to the 2026 forecast, the hosts explore what Powell’s dovish comments signal for future rate policy, how CRE has settled into a “higher-for-longer" reality, and whether the “pig in the python” effect could slow momentum next year.

In the LightBox Data Dive, Dianne shares the latest Transaction Tracker metrics: 1,214 deals closed in November totaling $23.8B, a modest seasonal dip but still healthy activity across metros and asset classes. The month’s top three trades? All billion-dollar portfolios spanning senior living, mixed-use, and student housing.

The episode also spotlights land grabs for future multifamily builds, fresh development financings across the country, selective industrial trading by major players, and the widening K-shaped recovery in office—plus a fun slice-of-life detour into headline-grabbing flip of the iconic Friends building.

A week of rate relief, steady deal flow, and cautious optimism as 2025 draws to a close.

00:55 Impact of Fed Remarks on the Market
05:40 Commercial Real Estate Forecasts for 2026
07:40 NYU Real Estate Conference Insights
10:53 Reflections and Predictions for 2026
16:29 LightBox Data Dive and Market Trends
20:06 Development and Industrial Market Highlights
27:49 San Diego Office Market Challenges

Have questions for the pod team? Send them to Podcast@LightBoxRE.com.

www.lightboxre.com