Investor Index December 5th
Gov. Kotek says Oregon is in process of building 50K new housing units, though most still unrealized
Tina Kotek says that since taking office in 2023, the state government of Oregon has helped bring about—or paved the way for—approximately 54,000 new housing units through financing, land unlocking, and infrastructure improvements. She stated that about 13,800 affordable homes have already been financed or opened with state support, and over 40,000 additional homes are in the pipeline thanks to newly available land and infrastructure investments. Alongside that, the administration has approved 21 local housing-production plans capable of delivering roughly 205,000 units over the next two decades, showing a long-term commitment to boosting housing supply statewide. Overall, the effort reflects accelerated housing construction and strategic planning aimed at reversing under-production of housing in Oregon.
Delayed tariff impact starting to hit, could cause companies to reduce head count in 2026
The article explains that new U.S. tariffs are beginning to bite, increasing costs for imported goods and squeezing corporate margins — a pressure that many companies warn could lead them to reduce headcount in 2026. Executives across manufacturing and import-reliant industries say the tariff-driven cost increases are still working their way through supply chains, but the resulting slump in demand and profitability is prompting some firms to consider layoffs or hiring freezes. The timing of these impacts means many businesses expect labor cuts next year, rather than immediately, as they assess full-year results and try to protect profit margins in an uncertain economic and trade environment.
Full Article: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/02/tariff-impact-starting-to-hit-could-cause-reduced-headcount-in-2026.html
Commercial Real Estate Confidence Remains Steady as Market Finds Its Footing
The article reports that overall confidence in the U.S. commercial real estate (CRE) market remained steady heading into Q4 2025, with the “Current Index” ticking up slightly to 64 and the “Future Index” at 69 — a sign that many market participants feel conditions are stabilizing after years of disruption. Most surveyed executives (63%) say market conditions are better than a year ago, while only 13% think they are worse. About 78% of respondents reported improved access to debt financing compared with last year, and many expect both debt and equity capital availability to continue improving. Additionally, nearly half believe asset values are unchanged year-over-year, while 42% see increases — with 72% anticipating further price appreciation in 2026. In short, despite lingering headwinds (e.g. tariffs, regulatory uncertainty), CRE leaders are signaling cautious optimism: financing is loosening, transaction activity is picking up, and many expect a more active 2026.
Full Article: https://themortgagepoint.com/2025/12/01/commercial-real-estate-confidence-remains-steady-as-market-finds-its-footing/