SAN DIEGO—During an MBA CREF24 economic market outlook panel, Dr. Mike Fratantoni, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of Research and Industry Technology at the Mortgage Bankers Association, provided an analysis of the economy and commercial as well as multifamily real estate finance markets. He began by highlighting the prevailing headwinds that challenge the exceptional performance the U.S. has experienced over the past year on the global stage.

"We anticipate a downturn in the U.S. economic landscape in the upcoming year… Observing the sentiments expressed by companies regarding their expenditure plans, manufacturing, and service provisions, it's evident that they are not projecting robust growth," he said. In terms of current inflation figures, he said that "we are in a better position compared to previous periods, with inflation rates exhibiting a decelerating trend."

Fratantoni noted that "The Federal Reserve aims to further reduce this figure, and while we believe they will succeed, accomplishing this objective may take the remainder of the year due to certain persistent factors influencing inflation."

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Natalie Dolce

Natalie Dolce, editor-in-chief of GlobeSt.com, is responsible for working with editorial staff, freelancers and senior management to help plan the overarching vision that encompasses GlobeSt.com, including short-term and long-term goals for the website, how content integrates through the company’s other product lines and the overall quality of content. Previously she served as national executive editor and editor of the West Coast region for GlobeSt.com and Real Estate Forum, and was responsible for coverage of news and information pertaining to that vital real estate region. Prior to moving out to the Southern California office, she was Northeast bureau chief, covering New York City for GlobeSt.com. Her background includes a stint at InStyle Magazine, and as managing editor with New York Press, an alternative weekly New York City paper. In her career, she has also covered a variety of beats for M magazine, Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel, FashionLedge.com, and Co-Ed magazine. Dolce has also freelanced for a number of publications, including MSNBC.com and Museums New York magazine.