NEW YORK CITY-In the first two panel discussions at RealShare HOTELS 2011, talk turned to the effect of economic fundamentals on the growing sector, and where and when to buy. The event, produced by ALM's Real Estate Media Group and currently underway at the Hilton New York Hotel, has drawn over 200 attendees, as well as panelists with expert knowledge on the debt and equity sides of the hospitality industry.

“Despite the many uncertainties facing businesses and the economy today, hotel operators have done very well,” said Michael Desiato, VP and group publisher of ALM’s Real Estate Media Group, in opening remarks. The Real Estate Media Group produced the event. “It still offers a very compelling investment opportunity out there, so I think we have to stop talking about this double dip recession.”

The morning kicked off with “Economic Forecast: Markets on the Rise, Markets to Avoid, and Where It’s All Heading,” a discussion moderated by Geoffrey Davis, president of HREC Investment Advisors.