At Realmark, we believe in equipping our clients with foresight, not hindsight. Recently, we were privileged to host an exclusive lunch event for our clients with Macquarie Bank, where we welcomed Martin Lakos, Macquarie’s leading media spokesperson. Martin’s Known Unknown presentation unpacked the complexity of today’s economy, linking global trading policies, political dynamics, and growth trends with a practical lens on the future.
The picture is one of resilience. Despite tariff debates, shifting U.S. policies, and geopolitical challenges spanning the Middle East to Asia, global growth has held steady. Structural strengths remain, with wages, business investment, government spending, and exports underpinning performance. Business confidence is stable, and while households continue to feel cost-of-living pressures, momentum is beginning to build with wages growth, tax relief, and rate cut expectations contributing to a cautiously optimistic outlook.
Returns for many asset classes rebounded strongly in 2024, and while 2025 has seen some volatility, opportunities are emerging across markets. In Real Estate, the story remains constant: strong demand meeting constrained supply. Population growth remains robust, vacancy rates are historically low, and housing shortages persist. Yet, prices are growing, foreign buyers are returning, and global property sales have lifted 15% from cyclical lows, with private equity activity further energising the property market.
The overarching takeaway is clear: the global economy is resilient and agilely adapting to new dynamics. While structural realignment in areas like productivity and taxation may be needed to sustain growth, the long-term fundamentals of property remain strong. Demand, demographic momentum, and capital inflows continue to create opportunity for those ready to act.
According to Realmark Managing Director John Percudani, “With the background of world volatility, economic macro shifts plus tempered local consumer and business sentiment, it was empowering to be present at the Macquarie Bank Boardroom with Martin Lakos to engage in his presentation - Known Unknown. Martin provided insights and data that was pertinent to making informed investment decisions in the Western Australian commercial and residential property market so often influenced by factors beyond our state. His manner of sharing the extensive economic data with a clear, meaningful and relevant to those present. As part of the Realmark Real Insights programme for our clients, it was a special opportunity to be informed at a level beyond the daily passing headlines.”
Realmark was delighted to host this forward-looking discussion, bringing together investors, developers, builders, and industry leaders for a conversation on the future of our economy and real estate. Our sincere thanks to Macquarie Bank and to Martin Lakos for sharing their insights and expertise.
At Realmark, we give our clients more than market commentary, we provide the strategic foresight and guidance to assist you in making more informed, confident property decisions. If you’re considering your next move in a changing market, our team is here to help you navigate it with clarity and confidence.