T
he 15th Annual Economic and Real Estate Forecast Symposium returns on Oct. 16, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center (6400 Airline Drive, Metairie, LA). Presented by Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company, the event is the Gulf South’s leading forum for real‑estate and economic insight, offering up to eight hours of continuing education.
Theme: “Breaking Ground: The Emergence of a New Economy.” The program connects macroeconomic trends to everyday practice, highlighting infrastructure, construction, and emerging industries reshaping Greater New Orleans. Chairwoman Mignon Richard Díaz notes the symposium “breaks new ground in infrastructure, construction, and innovative industries, equipping professionals to navigate shifts and prepare for the future.”
Morning sessions cover the health of local and national economies, labor markets, and key policy impacts, followed by discussions on how new industries and infrastructure projects make Greater New Orleans a competitive investment hub. A lender panel clarifies financing conditions, regulatory changes, and evolving asset preferences, providing essential insight into current capital trends.
After lunch, Newell Normand, WWL‑AM host and former Jefferson Parish Sheriff, delivers a keynote on affordable housing, demographic shifts, and regional supply challenges. Afternoon sessions spotlight active construction projects, permitting hurdles, and market activity across retail, multifamily, industrial, and office sectors. The closing address by Gulf Coast Bank & Trust President and CEO Guy Williams explores how artificial intelligence is transforming real‑estate marketing, transactions, and decision‑making.
Guy Williams praises the symposium as a gathering of experts offering unbiased information, noting its growth over the years and the honor of serving as presenting sponsor for the eighth year. Additional sponsors include Crescent Title and the Louisiana Commercial Database (LACDB).
Tickets and details are available online at nolaforecast.org.
About NOMAR and CID
Founded in 1915, the New Orleans Metropolitan Association of REALTORS® represents the region’s real‑estate community through advocacy, education, and professionalism. Its Commercial Investment Division (CID) promotes knowledge, integrity, and quality workmanship in commercial, industrial, and investment real‑estate. Together, NOMAR and CID advance economic activity and property ownership across Greater New Orleans. Learn more at nomar.org.
