State of The Institute & Economic Update

Day Two of our 2025 Fall Forum began with a breakfast session full of updates about The CCIM Institute and the economy at large. The morning featured remarks from our 2025 Global President, Steve Rich, CCIM, followed by an insightful Economic Update from Steig Seward, Senior National Director of Research at Colliers. 

Celebrating Growth and Global Reach 
Nearly 500 CCIMs and candidates gathered for the Fall Forum, including more than 130 Candidates preparing to take the Comprehensive Exam during the week. The session opened with a tribute to the late Robin Webb, CCIM, who served as the Institute’s 2017 Global President and left a lasting legacy as a board member, instructor, and mentor. 

“The value of the CCIM Designation doesn’t live on a piece of paper or a lapel pin — it lives in you,” Rich said. 

In his remarks, Rich highlighted the Institute’s continued momentum in 2025, emphasizing advancements in education, global partnerships, and professional development. Education remains central to The Institute’s mission, and this year saw the launch of the Commercial Real Estate Development Certificate, which has already enrolled nearly 100 professionals seeking to expand their expertise and networks. 

The Institute’s global presence continues to grow through new partnerships and international programs. In 2025, The CCIM Institute hosted its first Designation course in Mexico in several years and finalized a partnership with Narxoz Business School in Kazakhstan, which will bring CCIM education to Central Asia in 2026. Partnerships with organizations such as AREAA, KW Mexico, CREA, and Avison Young Industrial are strengthening global collaboration and expanding access to CCIM education worldwide. 

“Our global network is growing stronger every day. Together, we’re expanding education, deepening partnerships, and elevating the impact of CCIMs around the world,” Rich said. 

A strategic review of the Institute’s curriculum and learner experience is also under way, with recommendations from a consulting firm expected later this year. These findings will help shape The CCIM Institute’s long-range education plan, ensuring programs remain aligned with the needs of today’s commercial real estate professionals. Scholarships from the CCIM Foundation and local chapters continue to play a vital role in supporting candidates on their path to Designation. 

Innovation and Engagement 
Rich also highlighted the continued success of the Institute’s national marketing campaign, which showcases the value of working with a CCIM across connected TV platforms such as Paramount+, Hulu, and YouTube TV. Now in its second year, the campaign continues to elevate awareness of the CCIM Designation among commercial real estate professionals and clients alike. 

The Institute’s technology platform, Site To Do Business, is undergoing a full rebranding scheduled to launch in 2026. This initiative reflects The CCIM Institute’s commitment to innovation and to providing members with powerful tools that support data-driven decision-making and deal-making. 

Rich concluded his remarks with a call to action, encouraging CCIMs to strengthen the network by closing one more deal, mentoring one more candidate, and introducing one more partner to the CCIM community in the coming year. 

Economic Outlook: Navigating Market Change 
The session continued with Steig Seward’s comprehensive Economic Update, offering a data-driven perspective on global economic conditions and their impact on commercial real estate. With more than three decades of experience in research, analysis, and strategy, Seward provided context on current trends in trade, inflation, interest rates, and labor markets. 

Seward discussed the influence of new tariff policies on global supply chains and GDP growth in both the United States and Canada. He noted that while inflationary pressures remain, several indicators suggest gradual improvement in the coming year. Interest rates are expected to decline, although market reactions have been less predictable than in past cycles. 

“Despite uncertainty in the broader economy, commercial real estate remains resilient. Professionals who stay informed and adaptable will continue to find opportunity in every market cycle,” Seward said. 

Labor market data, he explained, is beginning to show signs of softening, prompting cautious optimism about the balance between employment and inflation. Housing affordability challenges remain significant across North America, contributing to uncertainty in residential and development sectors. 

Despite these headwinds, Seward highlighted areas of strength within commercial real estate. Industrial assets continue to perform well, retail is adapting to evolving consumer behavior, and capital markets are showing renewed activity as investors adjust expectations. While the office sector continues to face challenges, gradual recalibration is underway as companies refine their return-to-work strategies. 

“We’re entering a new era shaped by shifting trade policies, evolving labor markets, and rising interest rates — but also by innovation and the strength of demand across key sectors like industrial and retail,” Seward said. 

Seward’s presentation underscored the resilience of the industry and the opportunities that emerge for informed professionals who adapt to changing conditions. 

Looking Ahead 
The State of The Institute and Economic Update set a powerful tone for the 2025 Fall Forum, reminding attendees of The CCIM Institute’s global impact, strong foundation, and commitment to advancing commercial real estate education and professionalism. 

As the Forum continues, CCIMs and candidates will engage in networking, deal-making, and education sessions designed to strengthen connections and spark new opportunities. The CCIM Institute remains focused on empowering professionals to lead with confidence, insight, and innovation in an evolving marketplace.