Marriott CEO: 3 Approvals Needed for Starwood Merger

The transcript discusses the merger process between Marriott and Starwood, focusing on approvals needed from Saudi Arabia, the EU, and China's MOFCOM. It explores synergies post-merger, job implications, and the US lodging market's outlook. The potential impact of Brexit on business and strategies to compete with Airbnb in saturated markets like New York and Miami are also covered. Finally, it highlights China's market strength despite economic slowdown.

Which entities need to approve the merger between Marriott and Starwood Hotels?

• Saudi Arabia, the EU, and China's MOFCOM

• United States, Canada, and Mexico

• Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore

• Japan, South Korea, and India

What is the expected impact on jobs at the hotel level due to the merger?

• Significant layoffs

• Increase in job opportunities

• No significant impact

• Complete restructuring

Where is the job impact of the merger expected to be most significant?

• At the hotel level

• In the marketing team

• In the sales department

• Among senior ranks

What economic indicator is closely linked to the demand for hotels?

• Interest rates

• GDP growth

• Inflation rate

• Unemployment rate

What is the anticipated short-term impact of Brexit on the UK economy according to the transcript?

• Gradual impact over several years

• No impact at all

• Immediate and severe impact

• Positive impact on tourism

How is the sharing economy evolving according to the transcript?

• It is declining in popularity

• It is shifting towards micro hotels

• It is becoming less regulated

• It remains focused on shared homes

Which market is identified as strong despite economic slowdowns?

• United States

• United Kingdom

• China

• Germany