The traditionally robust real estate sector now faces fresh challenges brought about by high interest rates and evolving work patterns, according to Benjamin Tay, Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP’s Deputy Head for Corporate Real Estate. To maintain stability and continual growth, investment companies are adopting different strategies.
Tay indicates that in these times of market volatility and uncertainty, investors are increasingly seeking solid portfolio solutions. To uncover sustainable growth opportunities, he suggests that investors need to adapt their strategies.
Tay cites emerging markets in the Asia-Pacific region, such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and Cambodia, as offering opportunities for real estate investment growth. In his opinion, the current real estate industry is experiencing an intriguing phase. High interest rates, likely to persist due to ongoing inflation, are a cyclical challenge the industry must grapple with from an investment perspective.
However, Tay sees more than just challenges in shifting work habits and the upcoming transition to net-zero requirements. He sees them as drivers for substantial innovation in the use of real estate space.
Tay is an influential figure in Singapore’s legal field with 16 years of significant corporate real estate transaction expertise. His leadership on many of the firm’s key deals has been recognized by The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2022. He has been designated as a Rising Star in Real Estate by Asialaw Profiles 2022 and a Leading Individual in Real Estate by Best Lawyers 2023.
Tay believes that during uncertain times, people tend towards quality investments, which also holds for the real estate sector. Traditional investment strategies involving high-end commercial real estate in established cities are changing due to the current high-interest-rate environment and foundational operational shifts. Tay suggests investors seeking consistent growth might find options in emerging markets with consistent GDP growth.
Looking at real GDP growth rates in the Asia-Pacific area, Tay identifies Vietnam, the Philippines, and Cambodia as potential growth drivers. With their real GDP growth rates consistently exceeding 5%, these countries could present opportunities for astute investors.
He also highlights the potential of Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, predicted to be the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2045. Vietnam is often considered a viable option for businesses implementing a “China plus one” strategy, aiming to expand their investment horizon beyond China.
Lastly, Tay points out the rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI) could revolutionize the way people work and drive higher demand for data centers and the refurbishment of aging data centers. Besides direct investments in data centers, investors are also considering investments in the energy sector and other utility infrastructure, particularly those associated with renewable energy generation.
