FIABCI, the International Real Estate Federation, has joined the Global Data Exchange (GDX), a strategic initiative that promotes standardized, cross-border sharing of listing data. The announcement comes ahead of the 4th International MLS Forum (IMLSF), scheduled for November 16-17, 2026, at Raffles Istanbul. The forum is organized by the Real Estate Standards Organization (RESO), Advanced Real Estate Services (ADRES), and RealtyFeed.
FIABCI’s participation extends GDX’s reach to real estate businesses, associations, and professionals across global markets. This development matters because it signals a growing commitment to uniform data standards that can make property markets more transparent and efficient worldwide. For industry stakeholders, it means easier access to reliable listing information across borders, potentially reducing friction in international transactions and fostering greater cooperation among market participants.
Now in its fourth consecutive year, the forum connects MLS leaders, regulators, real estate associations, brokerage executives, proptech companies, and standards organizations. Attendees will engage in conversations shaping how property information is shared, accessed, and trusted across borders. The event’s focus on cross-border data sharing through GDX highlights the industry’s push toward interoperability, which could lower costs and improve service for consumers and professionals alike.
Confirmed speakers include Lily Chang, World President of FIABCI; Merri Jo Cowen, Inaugural President of GDX, Executive Vice President of UCO, and Chief Vision Officer of Stellar MLS; Sam DeBord, CEO of RESO; and Jeremy Crawford, President and CEO of First Multiple Listing Service (FMLS), among others. Their expertise underscores the forum’s role in bridging technology, real estate data, and governmental bodies.
“We’re delighted to reconvene some of the industry’s leading experts from across the real estate marketplace, at the intersection of technology, real estate data, governmental bodies and more,” said Merri Jo Cowen, Inaugural President of GDX. “We have some great speakers, and I look forward to paving the way for the future of real estate data with such a dynamic and empowered group of professionals.”
Last year’s edition welcomed more than 200 industry professionals from 51 countries. Istanbul’s location linking Europe and Asia offers convenient access for delegates from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO) serves as Title Partner, and TÜGEM Türkiye, a national real estate organization with more than 2,000 members, is the local host.
Special hotel rates at Raffles Istanbul are available for registered attendees, with booking details provided in the registration confirmation email. Registration is open at mlsforum.org.
