Hyatt Zilara

A strong first quarter for most hotel groups. AHLA released its FIFA World Cup hotel outlook as Marriott, Hilton, and Wyndham report solid early bookings despite concerns. Plus, more hotel deal and development news.

Hyatt Hotels is acquiring Playa Hotels & Resorts for $2.6 billion, funding it largely with new debt and asset sales, strengthening its all-inclusive presence in the Caribbean and Mexico.

Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation announced an increase in its quarterly dividend. MCR has acquired the Staybridge Suites Chattanooga Downtown , a five-story, extended-stay hotel in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The DJIA rose 35 points Friday while Nasdaq was down 21, the S&P 500 was down 5 points and the 10-year treasury yield was down .02 to 3.51%.