Oklahoma City

The world's first AI-powered hotel, Otonomus Hotel, featuring 303 suites and cutting-edge amenities, is set to open in Las Vegas in summer 2025 as Growth Holdings’ debut resort.

Bill Hornbuckle, CEO of MGM Resorts International, was named the national chair of the U.S. Travel Association’s board for a two-year term, succeeding Hilton’s Chris Nassetta.

IHG reported strong Q4 2024 results, announced the acquisition of the Ruby brand, raised its dividend by 10%, and launched a $900 million buyback, but investors remained unimpressed despite its strong performance.

Ryman and Apple Hospitality both reported earnings beats, with Ryman raising its dividend and Apple buying back shares and tightening guidance, while Summit grew results despite hurricanes.

Investors are concerned as Travel + Leisure Co. and Red Rock Resorts reported modest or solid earnings but saw stock declines, reflecting nervousness and a shoot-first-ask-later mentality on Wall Street.

The 2024 CBRE Global Hotel Investors Intentions Survey indicates U.S. hotel investors are optimistic, with plans to increase investments, despite challenges like debt servicing and rising costs, favoring urban and leisure markets such as New York City, Miami, Charleston, and Boston.

The World Travel & Tourism Council predicts 2024 will be a record year for the sector, with an economic contribution expected to hit $11.1 trillion, indicating robust growth and significant job creation.

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.

The earnings season for hotel companies kicked into high gear with Host Hotels and Pebblebrook becoming the first REITs to show their hand.

Baird provides insights into investor sentiment and expectations for 2024 RevPAR growth among hotel brands. Several hotel renovation and construction projects are announced, including a new Westin Resort in Cocoa Beach, Florida, and a Ritz Carlton Residences in Lake Woodlands, Texas. Multiple hotel acquisitions and developments are highlighted, such as the Kastrati Group's acquisition of SLS Brickell in Miami and IHG Hotels & Resorts introducing the Kimpton brand in Portugal with Kimpton Algarve Sao Rafael Atlantico.