Hilton

During the hotel group's earnings season, Hilton's report stood out as the most impressive – despite showing slowing RevPAR growth – due to strong performance in Net Unit Growth and EBITDA flow through.

Barclays previewed the first quarter for the lodging sector, suggesting mixed RevPAR results due to the March Easter shift, but maintaining expectations for in-line EBITDA among large caps, while adjusting target prices for major hotel brands including Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, Wyndham, and Choice Hotels.

Malaysian budget hotel owners are raising room rates due to increasing operational costs and taxes, amidst pressures from unlicensed accommodations.

Thailand's Prime Minister proposes a six-nation visa to enhance regional tourism, potentially extending visa validity to 90 days, with a target of 80 million foreign tourist arrivals by 2027.

The Maldivian tourism sector experienced a significant revenue decline last year, with resort revenue dropping by $529 million and total tourism revenue decreasing from $5.4 billion to $5 billion, attributed partly to a shift towards guesthouses over traditional resorts.

The owners of the CitizenM hotel chain, valued at 2 billion euros five years ago and now expected to double in sale price, are considering selling the rapidly expanded brand with over 40 global locations.

The market liked this conclusion: both companies' stock prices rose, with Choice Hotels up 6% and Wyndham Hotels 2%, indicating investor relief – or strategic reassessment.

Starwood Capital Group signed a deal with SPAC Jaws Mustang Acquisition to merge. If completed, the SPAC will become the direct or indirect owner of Starwood entities’ interests in an initial portfolio of 10 properties, including the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge.

China introduces 15-day visa-free entry for citizens of six European countries, extending from March 14 to November 30, alongside existing visa agreements with other nations.

The all-new Four Seasons Hotel Dalian is the first international luxury brand to open in the Chinese city in the past decade, while the forthcoming property in Okinawa will open in 2027.