FIABCI, the International Real Estate Federation, has joined the Global Data Exchange (GDX), a strategic initiative aimed at standardizing and facilitating cross-border sharing of real estate listing data. The announcement comes as the 4th International MLS Forum (IMLSF) prepares to convene on November 16-17, 2026, at Raffles Istanbul. The forum, organized by the Real Estate Standards Organization (RESO), Advanced Real Estate Services (ADRES) and RealtyFeed, will center on GDX and its role in reshaping how property information moves across borders.
FIABCI's participation is significant because it extends GDX's reach to real estate businesses, associations and professionals across global markets. As an international federation with members in numerous countries, FIABCI brings a broad network that can help accelerate the adoption of standardized data practices worldwide. This matters for an industry that has long struggled with fragmented listing data, inconsistent standards and limited cross-border transparency. By joining GDX, FIABCI signals that the push for interoperability is moving from a technical conversation among MLS operators to a broader strategic priority for organized real estate globally.
The forum itself has become a key annual gathering for MLS leaders, regulators, real estate associations, brokerage executives, proptech companies and standards organizations. Now in its fourth consecutive year, it provides a platform for sharing the standards, technology and business practices that support more transparent, cooperative and efficient property marketplaces. Attendees will take part in conversations shaping how property information is shared, accessed and trusted across borders. The event is organized by RESO, ADRES and RealtyFeed, with Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO) as Title Partner and TÜGEM Türkiye, a national real estate organization with more than 2,000 members, serving as local host.
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 participation underscores the high-level commitment to advancing data standards and cross-border cooperation. Last year's edition welcomed more than 200 industry professionals from 51 countries, demonstrating the forum's growing international influence.
Istanbul's location, linking Europe and Asia, offers convenient access for delegates from Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. This geographic advantage is likely to further boost attendance and reinforce the forum's role as a truly global meeting point for real estate data stakeholders. "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."
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. The implications of FIABCI's GDX membership and the upcoming forum extend beyond the event itself. They point to a maturing effort to create a common language for property data, which could reduce friction in cross-border transactions, improve market transparency and empower consumers and professionals alike. As more organizations join GDX and participate in the forum, the foundation for a more interconnected global real estate market is being laid.
