Large-scale investors have been looking at commercial real estate markets with cautious optimism, and some are now seeing signs that 2026 will prove the optimists right, writes David Israelson.

Economic uncertainty is likely to linger, but turbulence can benefit Canadian real estate. A stormy economy might compel institutional and high-net-worth investors to look for the calm that Canadian commercial real estate can offer, Paul Morassutti, chairman of CBRE Canada, recently told a crowd at the Toronto Real Estate Forum. 

This article was one of our most popular of the week. 

This piece is also the seventh in our continuing special report Outlook 2026, which puts 2025 in the rear-view mirror and spotlights challenges expected in the year ahead. See the other articles here.       

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PearTree Canada’s Matthew Fireman explains what made this year so unique

Canadian Family Offices’ Ashley Redmond recently had the opportunity to sit down with Matthew Fireman, head of sales and distribution at PearTree Canada. In a wide-ranging conversation, Fireman provides a recap of 2025, which he calls a “unique year,” as well as insights into the overall impact of President Donald Trump’s tariffs and the runup of gold prices. “This resulted in a lot of gold exploration companies wanting to come to market and raise money,” he notes.

This article is brought to you by PearTree Canada.

From Champagne to Prosecco and beyond (including England!), here are 12 sparkling wines from around the world to surprise and delight this festive season

The noted philanthropist and businessperson on the power of curiosity, building bridges, and her ‘sky is the limit’ mindset