Gregg Schenker
President and co-managing partner at ABS Partners Real Estate
What has been the secret to keeping the vacancy rate in your portfolio so low?
Massive new capital investment in each property to make space ready and in condition for renting.
The New York City mayoral election is coming up as of press time. If Zohran Mamdani wins, what would you like to see out of him?
A well-thought-out approach to the very real-world problems facing New York City: affordability, housing, crime, pro-business programs to help NYC enable economic growth.
What would you like to see out of the next mayoral administration?
Equitable treatment for all New Yorkers. A district attorney that challenges all criminal activity and enforces the law.
Revisions to the tax code to attract new investment and to retain New York residents versus chasing high earners from New York City and state; assuring programs to care for the less affluent. Pro-business, pro-growth policies.
Are you expecting an influx of market activity in the first half of 2026 if rates continue to go down?
New York, the most dynamic city in the world, is in an ideal position to continue to attract the best and brightest from around the world to enable growth.
Lighting Round:
Mamdani, Cuomo, Adams — Friend, mute, unfollow?
Cuomo is the choice for NYC notwithstanding past errors or mistakes. Adams’s listing on the ballot — while not running for office — will surely create confusion, inexcusably dividing the vote.
Your pick for Fed chair `26?
Larry Kudlow.
Borrowing costs up or down by late 2026?
Short-term rates are likely to fall, as indicated by the forward yield curve, although at ABS we do not predict interest rates.
More excited about — interest rate cut or Taylor Swift’s engagement?
Obviously a cut in the short-term rate would be a great benefit to many businesses, particularly real estate.
Last vacation and where?
August, sailing in Maine — first vacation in many years.
Like in ‘Freaky Friday’ you swap bodies with Jerome Powell. What would you do?
200 basis point reduction in the overnight Fed rate.
What’s your kryptonite?
People that lack integrity.
How are the tariffs going to affect your Thanksgiving shopping?
Family-related debates while shopping will cause a distraction and provide less time for shopping, ultimately leading to a less gluttonous celebration.
You appear on the kisscam at a concert. Who’s performing?
James Taylor.
If Stephen Starr asked you which restaurant he should reopen next, what would it be?
Reimagine and reopen a version of the Copacabana with elegant live music, dancing and dining.
The Stories Behind the List
