As we move into 2025, Peachtree Group remains optimistic about the U.S. economy. While risks persist—from policy shifts to stretched markets—the underlying fundamentals are strong. This sentiment was echoed by our recent guest speaker, Mark Zandi, Chief Economist at Moody’s Analytics, who shared his insights on the economy’s resilience and the challenges ahead, particularly for commercial real estate.
Mark emphasized the exceptional performance of the U.S. economy, with GDP growth expected to range between 2.5% and 3%, driven by increased labor participation and productivity gains. The labor market remains strong, with unemployment hovering around 4%, and households—especially those in the top income tiers—benefit from strong asset values and low debt-service ratios. However, he noted the pressures on lower-income households, who are feeling the strain of inflation and high-interest debt. This contrast contributes to a gap between strong economic data and public sentiment.
He outlined several key risks that may shape the economic landscape in 2025:
Mark highlighted the explosive growth over the past decade on private credit, now standing at eight times its 2010 size. While recognizing the risks of this rapid expansion, he noted that stabilizing economic fundamentals is a significant mitigating factor.
He also addressed the current state of CRE valuations, acknowledging a significant correction since 2022. Asset prices are down 10–20% from their peaks, depending on asset type, but he expressed cautious optimism for future returns as valuations in many segments approach fair value. Challenges remain, however, as muted transaction volumes and uncertainty around intrinsic values make price discovery difficult in a higher interest rate environment. However, he concluded by emphasizing that CRE, having undergone a meaningful correction, is uniquely positioned for potentially stronger returns.
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Bloomberg Radio | Greg Friedman discussed the fragile state of the commercial real estate market, with transaction volumes down 50% due to higher interest rates. Over the next 12 months, $1 trillion in commercial real estate loans will mature, offering opportunities for well-capitalized buyers. The conversation also highlighted the growing importance of private credit,which now makes up 10% of the commercial real estate ecosystem, providing stability. Additionally, there was a mention of the bifurcation in the office sector, with better-quality buildings showing recovery.
ATLANTA (September 2, 2025) - Peachtree Group ("Peachtree"), a leading commercial real estate investment firm overseeing a diversified portfolio of more than $8 billion, has been named to two prestigious growth rankings, underscoring the firm’s momentum as a leading force in commercial real estate investment.
Inc. revealed that Peachtree Group earned a place on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S., marking the third consecutive year the firm has been honored. The Inc. 5000 list provides a data-driven look at the most successful independent and entrepreneurial businesses across the nation.
In addition, the Atlanta Business Chronicle recognized Peachtree Group asan honoree in its 30th annual Pacesetter Awards, which celebrate the fastest-growing privately held companies based in metro Atlanta. Honorees were evaluated on revenue and employee growth from 2022 through 2024 and ranked using a growth index formula to ensure fair comparison across companies of varying sizes.
“We are in the business of identifying and capitalizing on mispriced risk, and in today’s environment of disruption and dislocation, that has created strong tailwinds for our growth,” said Greg Friedman, Peachtree’s managing principal and CEO. “These recognitions validate our ability to execute in complex markets, and we see significant opportunity ahead as we continue to scale our platform. We believe the next several years will be among the most compelling investment environments in recent history.”
Peachtree Group remains focused on delivering innovative investment strategies and strong results for its stakeholders while expanding its presence across the U.S.
Peachtree Group, in partnership with Paso Robles Hotel Partners, has opened The Ava Hotel in California’s Central Coast wine country. Part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, the upscale property is located in downtown Paso Robles next to the city’s historic town square and is managed by Azul Hospitality Group.
The Ava, Paso Robles’ first lifestyle-branded hotel, features 151 guestrooms and suites. Guests can choose from standard layouts including single king, double queen, and double king rooms, or opt for enhanced accommodations with Juliet balconies opening to floor-to-ceiling doors or poolside patios with direct access to the rooftop saltwater pool. For more space, one-bedroom and double queen suites include 1.5 bathrooms, living areas with fireplaces, powder rooms, and sofa sleepers.
Related Coverage: The Ava Hotel opens in Paso Robles, CA
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