This week’s Five-Star Weekly Briefing highlights current trends, investments, and developments in the hotel sector.

Hospitality across Asia-Pacific and Australia has started 2026 with strong momentum, led by premium openings and renewed investment confidence. TFE Hotels opened the $150 million Hannah St Hotel in Melbourne, Crystalbrook Collection advanced its first South Australian property in Adelaide, Ascott expanded its lyf brand locally, Frasers Hospitality launched a Luxury Collection hotel in Singapore, and Wyndham continued its growth across Malaysia.

Confidence is further reflected in Blackstone’s planned $1.2 billion acquisition of Hamilton Island and Sydney’s record December performance, driven by major events and international travel. As occupancy remains high across Australia and New Zealand, the focus is shifting toward higher guest spend, evolving expectations around wellness and pet-first travel, and more deliberate use of AI to lift efficiency without compromising service.