Alico Inc. CEO explains shift away from citrus industry
Alico Inc., a major citrus producer in Florida, has announced a strategic shift away from citrus farming due to economic challenges. CEO John Kiernan explained that the decision was driven by the impact of Hurricane Irma in 2017 and the persistent citrus greening disease, which have significantly reduced profitability. The company plans to diversify its land usage, with about 75% of its 53,000 acres remaining in agriculture for alternative crops such as sod, sugar cane, vegetables, and cattle farming, while 25% will be considered for commercial or residential development.
This transition will result in the layoff of 172 workers, though Alico plans to provide severance pay and job search assistance to eligible employees. Kiernan emphasized the company’s commitment to responsible land stewardship while balancing the need to generate returns for shareholders. Alico will continue citrus operations on about 3,500 acres of its most productive land for at least one more season, with the possibility of leasing to small-scale farmers in the future. The company is also exploring other revenue streams, including sand mining, as it adapts to changing market conditions and environmental challenges
As wave of commercial loans comes due, concerns rise over tougher payment options
The commercial real estate market is facing a significant wave of loan maturities, with $8.6 billion in commercial mortgage-backed security (CMBS) loans due this month alone. This surge is expected to peak in October 2025, with nearly double the January amount coming due. While lenders have been lenient in granting extensions in recent years, there are growing concerns that loan servicers may adopt a tougher stance, potentially leading to an increase in foreclosures.
The largest chunk of debt coming due is from Blackstone affiliates, totaling over $3 billion. Many borrowers are seeking extensions, but industry professionals anticipate a shift towards other types of debt resolutions. Lower property valuations, particularly in the office sector, are complicating matters, with some appraisals coming in at 40% less than the outstanding loan amounts. This situation is prompting bondholders to consider alternative strategies, such as discounted loan payoffs or loan splitting, to mitigate potential losses.
Multifamily loans rise as office deals fall; Trouble for St. Louis hotel; Departure dings New York office building
1. Multifamily loans are experiencing a surge as office deals decline, highlighted by the Bank of Montreal’s upcoming multiborrower commercial mortgage-backed securities deal, which features over half of its $960 million in multifamily loans. This marks a significant increase from previous years, as multifamily loans typically comprised only 21% of such offerings this year.
2. Meanwhile, the Hyatt Regency St. Louis is facing financial difficulties, with a $93.4 million loan entering special servicing due to declining net cash flow and occupancy rates.
3. Additionally, One Worldwide Plaza in New York has also moved to special servicing following the exit of a major tenant, Cravath, which has lowered occupancy from 90% to 65%. Overall, the office sector is struggling, with a significant drop in office loans and rising vacancy rates exacerbated by corporate relocations.