Onward, a Fundrise Production
42: The greatest capital broker in the nation, Simon Ziff
Jan 2, 2025
Simon Ziff, President of Ackman-Ziff and a key player in over $100 billion in real estate deals, shares his remarkable journey through the evolving landscape of commercial real estate. He reflects on navigating market cycles, the shift from family-run firms to institutional dominance, and the rise of CMBS and private equity. Ziff also addresses current market challenges due to rising interest rates, financing struggles, and emphasizes the importance of relationships and transparent compensation in driving success.
43:15
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Quick takeaways
- Simon Ziff's successful career in real estate highlights the critical importance of strong ethics and relationship-building amid market challenges.
- The evolution of the capital markets with CMBS has transformed financing practices, demonstrating the need for adaptability in changing economic conditions.
Deep dives
Career Journey and Early Insights
Simon Ziff shares his career beginnings in real estate, highlighting his entry into Ackman Brothers and Singer in 1989 amid the savings and loan crisis. He recalls how landing at this company allowed him to learn and grow during a turbulent time when many were leaving the industry. Ziff emphasizes the importance of strong business ethics taught by his mentor, Larry Ackman, which contributed to his development in a field that values relationships and trust. His firsthand experiences illustrate how navigating through challenging market conditions informed his understanding of the capital markets landscape.
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