CREF Policy Update: Powerhouse Conversations in New York–MBA’s Bank Senior Executive Roundtable
Powerhouse Conversations in New York: MBA’s Bank Senior Executive Roundtable
Last Tuesday, senior commercial real estate (CRE) executives from some of the nation’s leading depository institutions gathered in the heart of New York City for MBA’s highly anticipated Bank Senior Executive Roundtable. The industry’s most influential bank balance sheet lenders came together to learn from experts, exchange insights, debate trends, and explore opportunities in CRE and multifamily finance.
• The discussion was dynamic and forward-looking. Executives tackled the current interest rate environment, market outlook, and the ripple effects of geopolitical risk. MBA policy experts led a thought-provoking deep dive into the implications of H.R. 1 (now Public Law 119-21), NYS Proposal A174/S1163, and other legislative and regulatory issues affecting the industry.
•Hosted at Wells Fargo’s Hudson Yards offices, the day ended with a private tour of Gotham West, one of New York’s most exciting urban developments, followed by a lively networking reception fostering peer-to-peer dialogue and relationship building.
The bottom line: MBA’s Bank Senior Executive Roundtable is more than a meeting. It is a rare opportunity for senior leaders to have candid, high-level conversations with their peers, gain exclusive market and policy insights, and explore strategies to navigate today’s rapidly shifting CRE landscape
What’s next: Don’t miss the next opportunity to join these influential conversations! The Bank Senior Executive Roundtable reconvenes at MBA’s Commercial/Multifamily Finance Convention and Expo in February 2026, with Roundtables for other groups already scheduled. Connect with MBA staff today to secure your place among the industry’s top decision-makers.
For more information, please contact John Lammle at (202) 557-2789 or Kelli Burke at (202) 557-2742.
Senate Finance Committee Holds Key Treasury Nomination Hearing for Jonathan McKernan
Last Tuesday, Jonathan McKernan testified as the nominee for Undersecretary of the Treasury for Domestic Finance before the Senate Finance Committee. McKernan previously served on the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board, as a key Treasury, Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), and congressional aide, and in private law practice.
McKernan, whose nomination to be Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Director was withdrawn earlier this year, will play a key role on issues related to financial institutions/markets and fiscal service – including municipal debt finance and the housing GSEs – in his role as Undersecretary, if confirmed.
What they are saying: MBA President and CEO Bob Broeksmit, CMB, sent a letter of support for McKernan’s nomination, which can be found here.
What’s next: If reported favorably by the Senate Finance Committee, McKernan would then go before the full Senate for a confirmation vote – most likely in the fall.
For more information, please contact George Rogers at (202) 557-2797 or Ethan Saxon at (202) 557-2913.
MBA Opposes New York Commercial Rent Pricing Bill
This week, as part of an industry coalition, MBA signed on to a letter to New York Governor Kathy Hochul requesting a veto of legislation (S.1163/A.174) that would prohibit mortgagees from penalizing or defaulting mortgagors for not charging a high enough rent.
• While well intentioned, the bill is overly broad and would introduce significant legal uncertainty, undermine the enforceability of commercial loan contracts, and threaten the availability of credit for income-producing real estate across New York State.
Why it matters: The letter noted several shortcomings, such as:
• It fails to focus as intended by the sponsor on commercial storefronts and small businesses;
• It conflicts with federal bank regulatory requirements;
• It would reduce credit availability and increase borrowing costs statewide; and
• Its retroactive application creates unconstitutional risk.
What’s next: MBA will work with the New York MBA and other industry partners to continue to oppose this proposed policy by seeking a veto.
For more information, please contact William Kooper (202) 557-2737 or Liz Facemire (202) 557-2870.
Making Waves for Advocacy in August!
MBA’s Mortgage Action Alliance (MAA) Advocacy in August campaign is quickly approaching! Like the National Advocacy Conference (NAC), Advocacy in August is an important political engagement strategy designed to continue advancing MBA’s legislative agenda.
• Learn how you can make a big splash and engage with MBA next month!
Why it matters: During the Congressional August Recess (early August through September 1), members of Congress will be home in their states and districts to hear directly from constituents. Participation in these meetings is an essential component of our overall advocacy efforts. Sign up here to receive help working to schedule meetings in your state or congressional district.
What’s next: Join MBA’s Legislative and Political Affairs team during the next MAA Quarterly Webinar: “Sustained Advocacy Drives Results: What’s Ahead?” Register now!
For more information, please contact Jamey Lynch, AMP at (202) 557-2818 or Margie Ehrhardt at (202) 557-2708.
Register: MBA’s mPact Summit on Aug. 5
Young professionals, meet us in the nation’s capital for a full day of career development and networking on Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025. Back by popular demand, this event is built by young professionals in the real estate industry, for young professionals, and focused on helping you get to the next level.
Why it matters: The mPact Summit isn’t just about career tips, it’s about empowerment, connection, and growth! The summit will provide the tools, confidence, and network to thrive and help you become tomorrow’s leaders.
Register now!
For more information, please contact Jacky Salazar at (202) 557-2746
Upcoming MBA CREF Councils and Committee Meetings
MBA’s CREF Councils and Committees are a key way to connect to everything MBA has to offer around policy, advocacy, market intelligence and research, education, and networking. Councils and Committees are built around specific capital sources and serve as an opportunity for you to join other commercial real estate finance professionals to hear from experts, discuss opportunities and challenges, and connect with peers.
Upcoming virtual meetings include:
• Structured Finance Council: Aug. 6
• FHA Committee: Aug. 12
• Private Credit Council: Aug. 21
• Commercial Council: Aug. 26
• Life Company Council: Sept. 16
• Servicer Council: Sept. 18
• Bank Council: Sept. 24
For more information, click on the links above and/or contact Kelli Burke at (202) 557- 2742.
Upcoming MBA Education Webinars on Critical Industry Issues
MBA Education continues to deliver timely commercial/multifamily and single-family programming that covers the spectrum of challenges, obstacles and solutions pertaining to our industry. Below, please see a list of upcoming and recent webinars – all complimentary to MBA members:
• Practical Application of Distressed Asset Valuation – Case Examples and Lender Perspectives – Aug. 13
• Using Ordinance and Law Insurance to Protect Your Property and Business Recovery – Aug. 27
• Trends in Commercial Non-Bank Lending: Evolving Strategies & Creating Operational Advantages – Sept. 9
• Leveraging Inspection Networks: Ensuring Compliance Across Large, Geographically Disparate Portfolios – Sept. 17
• Fundamentals of Commercial Insurance Issues and Problems – Sept. 18
MBA members can register for any of the above events and view recent webinar recordings by clicking here.
For more information, please contact David Upbin at (202) 557-2931.
