Investors fear political unrest
Some of the foremost figures in the Asian commercial real estate market have voiced concerns over the impact that political and social factors will have on the market. In September and October, Hong Kong saw pro-democracy protests, and the impact that social change and impetus can have on markets should be at the forefront of investors’ minds, delegates were warned.
Fresh opportunities in China
China is creating opportunities for investors in the country as its economic “golden decade” comes to an end. CITIC Capital Holdings’ head of real estate Stanley Ching said rising land prices and intense competition had made it difficult for many investors, but “the slowdown allows opportunistic investors to find the right opportunities”.
Hang Lung plans expansion
Hong Kong-listed retail real estate firm Hang Lung is planning to expand aggressively in reaction to the slowdown in the Chinese market, said the firm’s chairman Ronnie Chan.
UK PRS attracts Asian capital
The northern powerhouse and private rented sector are expected to draw Far Eastern capital into the UK real estate sector. Neil Robinson, director of global communications at ABP London Investment, said: “ABP is partly interested in [these areas] because the margin for success can be large as land can be cheap.”
