Analysis

The collision of the physical and digital world will likely have a profound impact on what defines a workplace in the near future.

DBRS Morningstar is reviewing the ratings of CMBS that use skilled nursing facilities as collateral because of COVID-related liability issues.

Teladoc Health, the largest telemedicine software provider in the US, reported 2.8 million virtual visits in the second quarter of 2020, more than triple the same period in 2019. The high demand is expected to continue into 2021.

There are fears that if workers don't come back soon, many will never come back.

"The typical company spends close to a tenth of its budget on its office space, so this is an area that will likely come into focus for expense reduction if the recovery is slow."

If some economists' theory of a "K-shaped" COVID-19 economic recovery pans out, commercial real estate markets for affluent segments may fare better than those for lower-income people or companies.

"The social safety nets of European countries can look more expensive, but in a time of crisis, they can also help investors understand how economic losses will be distributed."

The price of lumber has shot up 110% since mid-April, according to a report from the National Association of Home Builders.