CHICAGO—Valued at approximately $6 billion including the assumption of debt, the acquisition will mark the latest in a long line of lodging industry investments by Blackstone.

FAIRFIELD, CT—As the company continues winding down its GE Capital business, “The complementary technology and geography of the Alstom assets will enable us to bring more value to customers,” says CEO Jeffrey Immelt.

LONDON—Calling it “a transformational deal” for his company, Redefine CEO Mike Watters says the portfolio offers “a number of attractive short and longer-term opportunities” to enhance and capture value.

NEW YORK CITY—The past 15 years have seen hundreds of big and small acquisitions in the commercial real estate services sector, and the wave won't ebb any time soon.

NEWPORT BEACH, CA—“ Real estate is looking increasingly expensive versus corporate bond yields, which have been on the move higher,” says Peter Rothemund at Green Street Advisors.

CALABASAS, CA—The “whipsaw performance” of 10-year Treasuries could delay the much- anticipated increase in the federal funds rate, observes Marcus & Millichap Capital Corp.'s William Hughes in a special report.

NEW YORK CITY—From Sam Zell to Andrew Farkas, commercial real estate history since 2000 has been shaped by movers and shakers who have advanced the industry. Our advisory board weighs in on some of the key personalities.

OAK BROOK, IL—The company is repositioning itself with a new valuation services business that was launched earlier this summer; Paul L. Rogers continues as president.