Core Insights - Marriott International, Inc. has entered into an agreement with Mullen Real Estate Capital to develop a JW Marriott All-Inclusive resort in Costa Elena, Costa Rica, set to convert in July 2025 and join the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio by Spring 2026 [1][2] Group 1: Expansion and Development - The introduction of the JW Marriott All-Inclusive resort marks a strategic expansion of Marriott's presence in Costa Rica, collaborating with Mullen Real Estate Capital, a significant player in the all-inclusive sector in the CALA region [2] - The resort will feature 415 guest rooms, 11 dining options, and 44,000 square feet of water amenities, including 17 swimming pools, aiming to provide a high-end experience for visitors [3] - As of year-end 2024, Marriott has 22 open properties across 15 brands in Costa Rica, with a development pipeline of 15 properties totaling 1,776 rooms, indicating strong growth in the region [4] Group 2: Global Presence and Performance - Marriott operates nearly 9,361 properties in 144 countries and territories, focusing on global expansion to meet the increasing demand for hotels in international markets [5] - In 2024, Marriott achieved a net room growth of 6.8%, adding 109,000 rooms globally, bringing the total to over 1.71 million rooms, with a development pipeline of 3,766 hotels and approximately 577,000 rooms [6] - The company is particularly focused on strengthening its presence outside the United States, especially in Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa [6] Group 3: Financial Performance and Market Trends - Despite a year-to-date share price decline of 11.6%, Marriott is expected to benefit from robust global travel demand, which is anticipated to drive growth in international markets [7] - The company entered 2025 with strong business momentum, with global group revenues tracking 6% higher for 2025 and 10% higher for 2026, driven by increases in both room nights and average daily rates (ADR) [9]

Core Insights - Albert Anthony is a Croatian-American media personality who has gained over 1,000 followers on investor platforms since 2023, focusing on markets and stocks [1] - He is set to launch a new book titled "Financial Markets: Growing A Dividend Income Portfolio" in 2025, coinciding with an ongoing series of articles on the same topic [1] - Albert Anthony has a background in management and information systems, having worked in the IT department of a top-10 financial firm [1] Company Profile - Albert Anthony & Co. is a sole proprietorship registered in Austin, Texas, and is wholly owned by Albert Anthony [1] - The company does not provide personalized financial advisory services but offers general market commentary based on publicly available data [1] - Albert Anthony has launched the Future Investor Fund, focusing on building a dividend portfolio [1] Educational Background - Albert Anthony has completed degrees and certificates from several institutions, including Drew University, Corporate Finance Institute, UVA Darden School of Business, CompTIA, and Microsoft [1] - He has attended various business and innovation conferences in Southeast Europe and has spoken at startup and digital nomad events in Croatia and Austin [1]

Core Insights - Marriott International is set to introduce a JW Marriott All-Inclusive resort in Costa Elena, Costa Rica, with conversion beginning in July 2025 and expected opening in Spring 2026 [1][2] - The resort will feature 415 guest rooms, 11 food and beverage outlets, and extensive water amenities including 17 swimming pools, emphasizing luxury and wellness [2][3] - This project marks a strategic collaboration with Mullen Real Estate Capital, aiming to redefine luxury all-inclusive experiences in the Caribbean and Latin America [2][4] Company Developments - Marriott has recently opened its 50th luxury hotel in Costa Rica, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and signed 10 new deals in 2024, adding 1,086 rooms to its development pipeline [5] - The total development pipeline in Costa Rica now includes 15 properties with a total of 1,776 rooms, indicating strong growth in the region [5] - Marriott currently operates 22 properties across 15 brands in Costa Rica, with more openings anticipated in 2025 [5] Market Positioning - The JW Marriott All-Inclusive resort will be positioned within an exclusive resort-residential community, enhancing its appeal to luxury travelers [3] - Future plans may include the introduction of JW Marriott branded residences, further expanding the luxury offerings in the area [3] - Mullen Real Estate Capital aims to leverage its expertise in the all-inclusive sector to create new opportunities and set benchmarks in the hospitality industry [4][9]

Core Insights - Marriott International, Inc. is expanding its luxury brand, The Ritz-Carlton, with a new property in Suzhou, China, enhancing its global market penetration [1][5] Group 1: Property Details - The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou features 190 guest rooms and suites, including 57 luxurious suites that reflect modern Chinese aesthetics [2] - Amenities include the Ritz-Carlton Club, four restaurants and bars, a 24-hour fitness center, a swimming pool, and event spaces [3] - The property is designed by KPF Architects and is conveniently located near tourist attractions and public transport [4] Group 2: Expansion Strategy - Marriott operates nearly 9,361 properties in 144 countries and territories, focusing on expanding its global presence [5] - In 2024, Marriott achieved a net room growth of 6.8%, adding 109,000 rooms globally, bringing the total to over 1.71 million rooms [6] - The development pipeline includes 3,766 hotels with approximately 577,000 rooms, with a significant focus on markets outside the United States, particularly in Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa [6] Group 3: Market Performance - Marriott's shares have declined by 13.8% this year, compared to a 10.2% decline in the Zacks Hotels and Motels industry [7] - Despite weak domestic leisure demand in Greater China, the company's global expansion strategy is expected to drive future growth [7]

Core Points - Marriott International has officially entered the affordable midscale segment in the U.S. and Canada with the opening of City Express by Marriott Duluth (GA) in March 2025, marking a significant milestone for the company [1][3] - The company plans to accelerate the expansion of City Express by Marriott, with over 45 signed agreements and more than a dozen properties expected to open in 2025 [3][5] Expansion Strategy - City Express by Marriott aims to provide a seamless guest experience for both business and leisure travelers, featuring amenities such as plush beds, high-speed internet, and complimentary breakfast [2][4] - The brand has already established a strong presence in the Caribbean and Latin America (CALA) region and is now set to replicate this success in the U.S. and Canada [3][4] Future Openings - Key upcoming openings include City Express by Marriott New Orleans Northeast, City Express by Marriott Chicago Downtown, and City Express by Marriott Orlando International Drive, among others, all scheduled for 2025 [3][4] - The Duluth property is strategically located 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta, providing easy access to the city while offering a relaxed environment [4] Brand Portfolio - Since acquiring the City Express brand portfolio in 2023, Marriott has focused on expanding its footprint in the affordable midscale segment, which includes three dynamic midscale brands [5][6] - The City Express by Marriott brand will participate in Marriott Bonvoy, allowing members to earn and redeem points across Marriott's extensive portfolio [7][9]

Core Insights - The Ritz-Carlton has officially opened its first hotel in Suzhou, China, enhancing luxury offerings in a city known for its rich cultural and historical significance [1][2] - The hotel aims to provide an immersive experience that blends local culture with the brand's renowned service and elegance [2][9] Group 1: Hotel Features and Design - The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou features a striking facade designed by KPF Architects, incorporating traditional Suzhou elements with modern techniques [3] - The hotel includes 190 guest rooms and suites, with the largest suite spanning 306 square meters, designed to reflect minimalist Suzhou architecture [4] - Interior design elements pay homage to Suzhou's silk trade and classical gardens, creating a serene and elegant atmosphere [3][4] Group 2: Culinary Offerings - The hotel boasts four restaurants and bars that combine The Ritz-Carlton's culinary expertise with local food culture, including a specialty restaurant and a Chinese tea lounge [5] - The dining options feature modern bistro fare, Huaiyang cuisine, and performances by tea masters, showcasing the region's culinary heritage [5] Group 3: Cultural Experiences - Guests can participate in various cultural activities, including traditional tea master performances and local craft workshops, enhancing their connection to Suzhou [6] - The Ritz-Carlton Club offers exclusive access to cultural immersions, such as Su Embroidery sessions and tea masterclasses [4][6] Group 4: Facilities and Amenities - The hotel includes a 24-hour fitness center, a swimming pool, and multiple event spaces, including a grand ballroom of 508 square meters [7][8] - The location provides convenient access to major attractions and transportation, making it suitable for both leisure and business travelers [2][9] Group 5: Strategic Positioning - The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou is positioned as a vibrant hub for commerce and culture within the city, contributing to the local hospitality landscape [9][10] - The hotel aims to redefine luxury in Suzhou by merging the city's heritage with contemporary elegance [10]

Core Insights - The Ritz-Carlton has officially opened its first hotel in Suzhou, China, enhancing its luxury hospitality presence in Greater China [1][2] - The hotel aims to blend local culture with modern luxury, providing guests with unique cultural experiences and exceptional service [2][8] Group 1: Hotel Features and Design - The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou features a striking facade designed by KPF Architects, incorporating traditional Suzhou elements with modern techniques [3] - The hotel includes 190 guest rooms and suites, with the largest suite spanning 306 square meters, offering panoramic views of the city [4] - Interior design reflects Suzhou's silk trade and classical gardens, utilizing neutral tones and intricate motifs to create an elegant atmosphere [3][4] Group 2: Dining and Cultural Experiences - The hotel offers three dining venues, including a specialty restaurant serving modern bistro fare and a Chinese restaurant focusing on Huaiyang cuisine [5] - Guests can participate in cultural activities such as traditional tea ceremonies and local toasting traditions, enhancing their connection to Suzhou [6] Group 3: Location and Accessibility - The hotel is strategically located within a two-kilometer walking distance to major attractions like the Lingering Garden and Xiyuan Temple, making it convenient for travelers [2] - Proximity to the city's Metro Line and Suzhou Railway Station facilitates easy access for both leisure and business guests [2] Group 4: Facilities and Services - The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou features a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor swimming pool, and various event spaces, including a grand ballroom of 508 square meters [7] - The hotel aims to be a vibrant hub for commerce and culture, contributing to Suzhou's status as a premier travel destination [8]

Core Insights - Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve located on Peninsula Papagayo, offers a unique blend of luxury, nature, and cultural heritage, featuring 107 ocean-facing accommodations and 36 private residences [1][19] - The resort emphasizes a deep connection to Costa Rica's culture and environment through its design, culinary offerings, and wellness programs, aiming to provide transformative experiences for guests [2][17] Design and Architecture - The architecture of Nekajui integrates local materials and sustainable practices, reflecting the natural beauty and cultural richness of Guanacaste [3] - Key design elements include La Casita and La Casona, which pay homage to traditional Costa Rican villages and historic haciendas, featuring over 550 curated art pieces from Latin American artists [4][5] Culinary Experience - The resort's dining options are led by Chef Diego Muñoz, focusing on indigenous ingredients and offering a unique Asian-Peruvian Omakase experience at the signature restaurant Puna [7] - Additional dining venues include Niri Beach Club, Poolside, and Ámbar, each providing distinct culinary experiences inspired by local and international cuisines [9][10] Wellness and Spa - Nimbu Spa & Wellness spans 27,000 square feet, featuring a hydrotherapy pool and bespoke wellness journeys that incorporate local elements [12] - The spa offers unique treatments such as Harmonic Monochord Healing and Volcanic Lift facial, designed to rejuvenate and restore guests [13] Adventure and Activities - The Outpost at Palmares Preserve offers outdoor adventures like ziplining and wildlife hikes, enhancing the guest experience with nature [14] - Nearby attractions include Santa Rosa National Park for surfing and a private 18-hole Arnold Palmer Signature golf course, providing diverse recreational options [15][16]

Investment Rating - The investment rating for Marriott Hotels & Resorts is maintained at NEUTRAL with a target price of $255, indicating an 11.6% downside from the current price of $288.42 [2][7][17]. Core Insights - Marriott's 4Q24 performance exceeded market expectations, with total revenue increasing by 1.9% year-over-year to $1,725 million, driven by growth in base management fees and franchise fees [3][14]. - The guidance for 2025 non-RevPAR related revenue is below expectations due to several factors, including a return to normalcy in co-branded credit card fee revenue and a decline in long-stay brand fee revenue [3][14][17]. - Global RevPAR for 4Q24 grew by 5% to $126.26, surpassing previous guidance and expectations, with North America showing strong leisure demand during the holiday season [4][15]. Summary by Sections Financial Performance - In 4Q24, base management fees and franchise fees grew by 3.7% and 12.8% to $333 million and $795 million, respectively [3][14]. - Adjusted EBITDA for 4Q24 was $1,286 million, exceeding expectations [3][14]. - The effective tax rate was 23.9%, lower than the anticipated 26% [3][14]. Revenue and Profit Forecast - Revenue projections for 2025 are set at $6,899 million, reflecting a 4% increase from 2024 [2][7]. - Adjusted diluted EPS is expected to grow from $9.33 in 2024 to $10.18 in 2025, representing a 9.2% year-over-year increase [2][17]. Room Count and Membership Growth - By the end of 2024, Marriott had over 1.7 million rooms globally, a 6.6% increase year-over-year, with a significant contribution from franchised hotels [6][16]. - Marriott BONVOY membership reached 228 million, with a global member occupancy rate of 66% [6][16]. Market Outlook - The guidance for 2025 investor returns is approximately $4 billion, consistent with previous years [6][17]. - The report anticipates a 3.0% growth in RevPAR for 2025, with North America expected to grow by 2.1% [4][15].

Core Points - Marriott International, Inc. declared a quarterly cash dividend of 63 cents per share of common stock, payable on March 31, 2025, to shareholders of record as of February 27, 2025 [1] Company Overview - Marriott International is based in Bethesda, Maryland, and operates a portfolio of over 9,300 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 144 countries and territories [2] - The company operates, franchises, and licenses various lodging properties, including hotels, residential, and timeshare properties globally [2] - Marriott offers the Marriott Bonvoy® travel platform, which is highly awarded [2]