Day Three Recap: Fall Forum 2025

Breakfast with Michael Litt: Navigating Demographic Shifts and Economic Realities 
Returning to The CCIM Institute’s Fall Forum after a standout presentation at the Spring Forum, Michael Litt brought his signature data-driven perspective on the global forces shaping financial markets and commercial real estate. A renowned financial strategist with deep expertise in market cycles and investment strategy, Litt offered a compelling look at the demographic and economic shifts redefining how and where value is created. 

Litt explored how rapidly declining birth rates across major economies—including the United States, Canada, China, and India—are leading to slower population growth and greater dependence on immigration. He explained how these changes are influencing demand across real estate sectors, with opportunities increasingly concentrated among older, wealthier populations and markets positioned for long-term resilience. He also examined fiscal and monetary trends, warning that rising national debt and sustained deficit spending could drive inflation, currency devaluation, and greater volatility. 

Litt encouraged CCIMs  to anticipate these trends by focusing on assets aligned with future capital flows and high-income spending patterns. He closed by emphasizing the critical role of innovation and productivity—particularly through tools like GIS and data-driven analysis—in sustaining growth and competitiveness in a changing global economy. 

The Hot Seat: Broker vs. Bot – Navigating Technology’s Role in CRE 
A new addition to the Fall Forum lineup, The Hot Seat brought an engaging and unfiltered conversation to the stage, led by Adam Palmer, CCIM, SIOR, with special guest Paul Cohen, Director of Auction Platforms at Crexi. Designed to tackle some of commercial real estate’s most debated topics, the session explored how technology, data, and auction platforms are reshaping traditional brokerage — and whether they represent a disruption or an opportunity. 

Cohen emphasized that auction platforms like Crexi are not competitors to brokers, but strategic tools that can expand reach, accelerate timelines, and deliver competitive pricing when used effectively. He explained how partnerships with local experts remain essential, noting that “boots on the ground” insights and market knowledge drive stronger outcomes than technology alone. The discussion touched on emerging trends such as fractional ownership, international investment, and triple-net properties, with Cohen underscoring that while automation can streamline processes, trust and expertise remain at the heart of every successful transaction. 

Addressing long-standing misconceptions, Cohen acknowledged the stigma of auctions as “fire sales,” clarifying that modern platforms now bring full market exposure, transparency, and competitive bidding that often enhance value. He closed by reinforcing Crexi’s commitment to broker partnerships, not disruption — empowering professionals to harness technology without surrendering control or client relationships. 

Future of GeoAI with Esri Presentation 
Ben Wilson - Director of Sales, CCIM Technologies 
Gregg Katz - Director of Business Industry Solutions - Real Estate, Esri 

The session explored how advancements in GeoAI and data visualization are reshaping market analysis and decision-making in commercial real estate. Wilson demonstrated how the latest tools within Site To Do Business integrate Esri’s comprehensive datasets to deliver deeper insights with greater efficiency. Using Bellevue, Wash., as a case study, he showed how users can combine demographic data, lifestyle segmentation, and spending potential to evaluate multiple sites and identify locations best positioned for retail success. 

Katz expanded on how Esri’s Retail Report helps professionals turn raw data into actionable intelligence, with features like retail property scoring and interactive mapping that reveal growth potential and competitive dynamics. He also previewed emerging innovations such as medtech market reports, AI-assisted analytics, and next-generation visualization tools designed to streamline workflows and enhance storytelling. Together, the presenters emphasized that while AI and automation accelerate insights, success still depends on the professional’s expertise in asking the right questions and applying data with strategic purpose. 

Cybersecurity Panel: Protecting Deals, Data, and Dollars 
Max Alexander, D.Eng CEng MIET - VP of Firmwide Technology Resiliency, JPMorgan Chase & Co. 
Betty Elliott, CISSP - Senior Vice President, Chief Information Security Officer, Freddie Mac 
D'Etta Casto-DeLeon, CCIM, CCMS - Director, CBRE, Capital Markets, Loan Services 
Andie Edmonds - 2025 Vice President, The CCIM Institute 
 
With cyberattacks increasingly targeting the commercial real estate sector, panelists from Freddie Mac, JPMorgan Chase & Co., and CBRE joined Andie Edmonds, CCIM, to unpack the evolving threat landscape and practical defenses every firm should adopt. Betty Elliott emphasized that phishing and social engineering tactics have grown far more sophisticated, often mimicking legitimate communications with precision. Max Alexander warned that traditional usernames and passwords are no longer sufficient, advocating for stronger authentication methods such as passkeys and token-based systems. D’Etta Casto-DeLeon, CCIM, shared real-world examples of wire fraud attempts intercepted through proper validation, underscoring the importance of awareness and verification at every stage of a transaction. 

Panelists agreed that while technology plays a crucial role in defense, human behavior remains the weakest link—making employee education, internal testing, and clear validation procedures essential. For smaller firms without dedicated cybersecurity teams, the group recommended partnering with managed security service providers, implementing multi-factor authentication, encrypting data, and maintaining incident response plans. The discussion made clear that cyber resilience is no longer optional in commercial real estate; it is a core business priority that protects clients, deals, and reputations in an increasingly digital marketplace. 

Beyond Borders: Global Lunch 
Ayman Al Awadhi - Managing Director, Axeed Space 
Machiko Kotani, CCIM - Chapter President, CCIM Japan 
Marris Hsieh, CCIM - Chapter President, CCIM Taiwan 
Veronica Malolos, CCIM - CEO & Founder, CapStrata Group of Companies 

 
Beyond Borders: Global Lunch 
The Global Lunch invited attendees to take a wide-angle view of commercial real estate, exploring how global capital flows, policy shifts, and cultural nuances are shaping investment strategies across regions. Al Awadhi shared insights from the UAE, highlighting the nation’s ambitious Dubai 2030 Vision, rapid population growth, and expansive real estate development pipeline. He emphasized innovation in the UAE market, including property tokenization, comprehensive economic agreements, and mixed-use projects designed to integrate sustainability, community, and business. He explained that these initiatives are positioning the region as a thriving hub for cross-border investment and entrepreneurship. 

Hsieh and Kotani provided perspectives from Taiwan and Japan, discussing how tariffs, supply chain shifts, and ESG policies are influencing their markets. Hsieh noted the growing demand for warehouse and industrial assets driven by e-commerce expansion, while Kotani observed stable interest rates and increased foreign investment in Japan’s major cities, particularly in logistics, hotels, and Class A office projects. Across the panel, speakers emphasized the importance of understanding local market conditions and cultural factors when structuring international deals. The discussion reinforced that in a globally interconnected market, CCIMs and Designees who cultivate a global mindset and network are best positioned to identify opportunities and navigate risk. 

AREAA Fireside Chat: Collaboration, Community, and Growth   
Steve Rich, CCIM - 2025 Global President, The CCIM Institute 
Michelle Leung, CCIM, FRI - Broker of Record | CRE Consultant | Wealth Management  
William Wang, - AREAA National President for 2027 
Jue Wang, CCIM - Site Selection & Commercial Real Estate Strategist 

 
The AREAA Fireside Chat brought together leaders from The CCIM Institute and the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) to discuss how collaboration and shared vision can create new opportunities for professionals and communities alike. Leung opened the session by celebrating the growing partnership between the two organizations, emphasizing their aligned missions to elevate education, networking, and leadership in commercial real estate. Wang outlined AREAA’s evolution from promoting sustainable homeownership to empowering real estate professionals through advocacy and professional development, noting that its 46 chapters and 19,000 members represent a powerful platform for collaboration. 

Rich and Wang highlighted how partnerships between AREAA and CCIM can expand referral networks, build cross-market connections, and open international investment opportunities. They emphasized the value of combining CCIM’s education and analytical tools with AREAA’s deep community roots to support members across both residential and commercial sectors. The panel encouraged professionals to engage through local and national events, leverage scholarships and training, and embrace cultural diversity as a driver of innovation and inclusion. Together, they reinforced that building relationships—both locally and globally—is key to growing membership, strengthening business, and shaping the future of real estate within the Asian community and beyond. 

Boots & Boats on The Ground: Vancouver Tours 
Attendees experienced Vancouver from every angle during the Boots & Boats on the Ground tours—immersing themselves in the city’s vibrant history, stunning scenery, and thriving industries. From panoramic harbor views to firsthand insights into the region’s economic engines, each tour offered a unique way to discover what makes Vancouver one of the world’s most dynamic and livable cities. 

Setting sail from the elegant Bayshore West Marina, guests were greeted with a glass in hand and a selection of gourmet appetizers before cruising into the harbor. Against the backdrop of Vancouver’s striking skyline, attendees enjoyed refined hospitality, lively conversation, and unforgettable views of landmarks like Stanley Park, Coal Harbour, and the North Shore Mountains. The yacht tour offered a relaxing and picturesque way to connect with fellow CCIMs and Designees while taking in the city’s natural beauty and architectural charm from the water. 

Back on land, participants explored the economic heartbeat of Vancouver—where innovation meets tradition. The tour showcased the city’s diverse industries, from technology and film production to natural resources, tourism, and international trade. Attendees gained a deeper appreciation for how these sectors work together to shape Vancouver’s economy and global identity. With its blend of coastal access, entrepreneurial energy, and cultural vibrancy, the city stood out as both a thriving marketplace and a model for sustainable urban growth. 

Cirque de Inauguration: A Night to Celebrate Leadership and Legacy 
The Fall Forum concluded with an unforgettable celebration honoring Adam Palmer, CCIM, SIOR, as he was inaugurated as The CCIM Institute’s 2026 Global President. Palmer, a JWL graduate, former President of the Florida Chapter’s Southwest District, and a Designee since 2010, takes the helm with a proven record of leadership, innovation, and commitment to the CCIM community. 

The evening’s “Cirque de Inauguration” theme set the stage for a spectacular night filled with vibrant performances, gourmet dining, and lively entertainment that perfectly reflected the energy and excitement of the occasion. Laughter, connection, and anticipation filled the room as colleagues, friends, and family gathered to celebrate Palmer’s journey and vision for the future. The festivities culminated in a powerful swearing-in ceremony, followed by a spirited dance party that carried the celebration late into the night. 

It was a momentous evening—one that captured the spirit of The CCIM Institute community and marked the beginning of a new chapter of leadership, collaboration, and growth. Truly, it was a night to remember. 

More to Come 
As the Fall Forum continues, there’s a sense of excitement for the days ahead and all that’s still coming. With meaningful connections, innovative sessions, and unforgettable celebrations already behind us, the first half of the week has set up a powerful tone. The CCIM Institute community has shown once again that when CCIMs come together, great things happen — and the momentum is only building for the final two days.