FIABCI Joins Global Data Exchange as International MLS Forum Heads to Istanbul

FIABCI, the International Real Estate Federation, has joined the Global Data Exchange (GDX), a strategic initiative for 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, marking a significant step toward unified property data standards.

The Global Data Exchange anchors this year’s forum, which 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 aims to foster more transparent, cooperative, and efficient property marketplaces for the communities they serve. Universal Consulting Opportunities (UCO) serves as Title Partner, and TÜGEM Türkiye, a national real estate organization with more than 2,000 members, serves 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. “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, which links Europe and Asia, offers convenient access for delegates from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. 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 for the real estate industry are substantial. Standardized cross-border data sharing can reduce friction in international property transactions, enhance market transparency, and build trust among consumers and professionals. For Texas, a state with a robust real estate market and growing international ties, participation in such global standards could streamline cross-border investments and partnerships. The forum’s outcomes may influence how Texas MLSs and brokerages adopt global data practices, potentially lowering costs and expanding market reach. As the industry moves toward greater interoperability, events like the International MLS Forum serve as critical platforms for shaping the future of real estate data.