Morgan Stanley logo
Morgan Stanley

June 24, 2026

The Evolution of Defaults and Losses in CMBS

Rates CreditReal Estate

This report provides an in-depth analysis of CMBS loss performance, contrasting legacy 1.0 conduit trends with current 2.0 data. It introduces a property-type risk framework to assess implied loss expectations.

Key Takeaways

  • 1.The current CRE downturn is driven by sector-specific distress rather than a broad-based collapse.
  • 2.Cumulative losses in the conduit universe stand at ~5.1%, with legacy 1.0 conduit deals reporting significantly higher losses (8.3%) compared to 2.0 (1.3%).
  • 3.Office remains the largest contributor to embedded loss exposure, while 5-year loans face refinancing challenges and 10-year loans face more physical impairment risk.

Table of Contents

  • Key Takeaways
  • Executive Summary
  • Evolution of CMBS Delinquency and Underwriting
  • Conduit Loss and Liquidation Trends
  • Defining Our Property Subtype Risk Framework
  • Months to Recover
  • Loss Severity by Various Loan Characteristics
  • Modification Type
  • Maturity vs Term Defaults
  • 5 Year vs 10 Year Conduit Performance
  • Conduit Expected Loss Curves

Document Preview

Page 1 of 5
Page 1 of The Evolution of Defaults and Losses in CMBS
Subscribe for full access

Access the Full Report

Get unlimited access to institutional research reports with a 14-day free trial.

Authors

Catherine LiuJames EganAryan Nadkarni

Securities

CMBS Conduit 1.0CMBS Conduit 2.0

Themes

CRE Structural ObsolescenceRefinancing Risk

Regions

North AmericaUnited States