Construction Industry Optimism Grows as CIRT Sentiment Index Hits 66.1, but Workforce Shortages Loom
FMI Corp • MARCH 11, 2026
The latest report from FMI Corp reveals a surge in optimism within the construction industry, with the CIRT Sentiment Index climbing to 66.1 in Q1 2026, driven by stable demand and heightened expectations for design activities. Despite this positive outlook, a pressing workforce shortage looms, as 37% of industry respondents highlight skilled labor availability as a key challenge. Discover the full insights and strategic recommendations by downloading the complete CIRT Sentiment Index report.
February Sees Special Servicing Rate Dip to 10.73%, Driven by Office and Mixed-Use Trends Amid Retail Challenges
trepp • MARCH 10, 2026
In February, the CMBS Special Servicing Rate dipped to 10.73%, driven by notable reductions in the office and mixed-use sectors, despite a challenging retail landscape. Trepp's latest report reveals a significant decline in mixed-use loans, while the retail segment faced pressure from a substantial loan transferring into special servicing. For deeper insights into these trends and their implications, check out Trepp's detailed analysis.
ITAD Sector Transforms: AI Infrastructure Fuels Growth Amid Rising Demand and Revenue Surge
FMI Corp • MARCH 10, 2026
In a groundbreaking shift, the IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) sector is transforming into a high-growth industry driven by the skyrocketing demand for AI infrastructure. FMI Corp’s latest report reveals soaring revenues at major firms like Iron Mountain and Sims Limited, fueled by a booming market for repurposed components. As businesses pivot toward full-lifecycle services, the report underscores the need for ITAD leaders to adapt and capitalize on evolving valuation dynamics in this dynamic landscape.
J.P. Morgan's Updated U.S. Economic Outlook Reflects Lower Growth Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions
J.P. Morgan Asset Management • MARCH 9, 2026
In its latest report, J.P. Morgan Asset Management revises the U.S. economic outlook, citing lower growth expectations amid escalating geopolitical tensions and recent economic data.
Commercial Real Estate CLO Issuance Soars in 2026, Eyeing 2021 Peaks
trepp • MARCH 9, 2026
A recent Trepp report highlights a remarkable rebound in commercial real estate collateralized loan obligation (CRE CLO) issuance, reaching $11.2 billion by early March 2026—a 34% increase from the previous year. This surge positions the market to potentially match or exceed the record levels of 2021, despite a more challenging interest rate environment. With multifamily properties dominating the sector and underwriting expectations adapting for stability, the CRE CLO landscape is shaping up to be a key player in transitional and value-add financing strategies this year.
J.P. Morgan's March Economic Update: Slower Growth Masks Optimism Amid Fiscal Stimulus and Tech Gains
J.P. Morgan Asset Management • MARCH 9, 2026
J.P. Morgan Asset Management's latest economic update reveals a mixed landscape for the U.S. economy as of March 9, 2026, with slower-than-expected growth masking an underlying optimism thanks to fiscal stimulus and robust tech sector gains.
Dodge Momentum Index Plummets 7.3% in February Amid Cost and Labor Concerns
Dodge Construction Network • MARCH 6, 2026
The Dodge Momentum Index (DMI) experienced a significant 7.3% decline in February, highlighting ongoing concerns in both cost and labor that are impacting builder confidence. Despite this dip, the long-term outlook remains promising, with a robust planning pipeline indicating a potential acceleration in construction spending by 2027. Notable commercial projects, including two massive data centers in Texas and a major convention center expansion in Florida, illustrate pockets of growth amid the slowdown.
Construction Employment Dips by 11,000 as Firms Cautiously Navigate Economic Uncertainties
AGC Construction Data • MARCH 6, 2026
A recent report from the Associated General Contractors of America reveals a dip in construction employment, with 11,000 jobs lost in February across both residential and nonresidential sectors. This cautious trend, following a surge in hiring the previous month, highlights contractors' growing concerns about fluctuating material costs and demand for projects. Despite this setback, the construction industry continues to outpace the broader economy in job growth over the past year, showcasing its resilience amid uncertainty.
Construction Jobs Dip in February Amid Mixed Economic Signals and Rising Labor Costs
AGC • MARCH 6, 2026
In February, construction jobs saw a decline, with total employment dipping to 8,309,000 as both residential and nonresidential sectors faced setbacks. While the construction workforce decreased by 11,000 from January, year-over-year figures show a gain of 42,000, highlighting resilient growth in nonresidential areas despite fluctuating labor costs and mixed economic signals. The report also sheds light on the evolving landscape of electric vehicle and battery plants, as projects face increasing uncertainty amid shifting market dynamics.
Bridging the Leadership Gap: Construction Firms Must Tackle Growth Challenges Head-On
FMI Corp • MARCH 6, 2026
In a revealing March report, FMI Corp explores the widening leadership gap in the construction industry, underscoring how rapid growth often outpaces the development of capable leaders. With senior executives stretched thin and the impending retirement of seasoned project managers, companies face critical challenges that demand urgent attention. The report offers five actionable strategies for firms to strengthen their leadership depth and better equip themselves for the complexities of modern construction management.