ATLANTA—Here's a look at the trends, announcements and deals you may have missed early this week in Georgia and Alabama.

LOS ANGELES— “Local people make the difference,” says Kidder Matthews' Jeff Lyon about the firm's recent merger with Hager, which highlights the importance of gaining a stronger foothold in Southern California markets.

LOS ANGELES—Although the tide isn't rising to lift all boats, there are still plenty of opportunities for quality projects this year.

NEW YORK CITY—Leading the charge for Moinian Capital Partners will be an industry veteran who has originated more than $3 billion in commercial real estate loans.