Marriott's Latest Report: 9 Things We Learned

Marriott International has seen continued strength in travel demand, particularly in international markets, and an 8% rebound in group bookings.

Marriott, which operates over 9,300 properties worldwide, reported its fourth-quarter earnings on Tuesday, discussing key performance gains as the group undertakes a major technology overhaul and expands its loyalty program, which added more than 31 million new members last year.

"Fourth quarter leisure revenue per available room was 6% globally and 4% in the U.S. and Canada, driven by gains in both room nights and average daily rate, with strength across all tiers from luxury to select service," said president and CEO Anthony Capuano.

Marriott's net profit margin was 34%. It reported a profit of $455 million on revenue of $1.3 billion (after subtracting revenue it must pass on to its managed and franchised properties).

The Bethesda, Maryland-based hotel operator showed strong pricing power. In the fourth quarter, it boosted rates without sacrificing occupancy. Its worldwide growth in revenue per availa