When does jury selection begin and what changed recently?

Jury selection begins January 20. Prosecutors filed a superseding indictment tied to an alleged 2012 cruise-ship assault, expanding the case against Tal, Oren, and Alon Alexander. The Alexander brothers trial now carries greater reputational risk for connected parties, making early testimony and motions important for investors tracking industry fallout.

How could this affect luxury real estate deal flow?

High-end sellers may delay listings and buyers may extend diligence. That can slow closings, raise marketing costs, and tighten financing for discretionary projects. Broker teams might reassign accounts to protect brands. The impact will depend on trial headlines, which could shift sentiment across NYC and Miami luxury channels in 1H26.

What should Canadian investors do right now?

Map exposure to brokerage commissions, premium condo sales, and development pipelines. Stress test slower absorption and tighter credit. Review covenants and counterparty risks. Hedge USD where appropriate. Keep cash ready for selective opportunities. Reassess positions as the Alexander brothers trial progresses and as brokers and lenders update pipeline guidance.

Does currency risk matter for Canadians with US exposure?

Yes. Returns are in USD while expenses and reporting are in CAD. A stronger US dollar can boost CAD returns, but volatility can mask operational trends. Pair real estate risk with FX hedges or natural offsets. Recalculate performance both hedged and unhedged to separate currency swings from property fundamentals.

Law and Government

January 19: Alexander Brothers Trial Nears; Luxury Real Estate Risks

ByDanny Kontos January 20, 2026

The Alexander brothers trial enters a crucial week, with jury selection slated for January 20. Prosecutors added a superseding indictment tied to an alleged 2012 cruise-ship assault, raising legal and reputational stakes for Tal, Oren, and Alon Alexander. For Canadian investors with exposure to New York and Miami luxury real estate, this matters. Sentiment can shift quickly, affecting listings, commissions, and financing. We outline what to watch through 1H26, how risk could spread to related deals, and practical steps to protect portfolios.