Although sluggish investment volumes persist, signs of stronger growth in the region and a sense that interest rate cuts are within sight are expected to contribute to a more optimistic second half even if the US elections and ongoing geopolitical tensions could slow recovery.
Simon Smith, Asia Pacific
Australia
“While persistent inflation and greater uncertainty around the interest rate outlook are weighing on sentiment, steeper declines in asset values are beginning to drive a recovery in investment activity.” – Katy Dean, Australia
China
“China's economic growth is slowing amid the real estate slump, but government policies and developer restructuring are helping to boost transaction volumes in retail, hotel, and multifamily assets.” – James Macdonald, China
Indonesia
“Although economic growth is predicted to be lower than the previous quarter, the property market posted a positive performance in Q2/2024.” – Tommy Henria Bastamy, Indonesia
Hong Kong
“A difficult first half will see little improvement moving forward as banks’ loan quality is likely to deteriorate further and portfolio owners offload fringe assets at discounts. Cash rich buyers and end users will continue to benefit.” – Jack Tong, Hong Kong
India
“In 1H/2024, investment activity gathered momentum quite noticeably. While commercial offices maintained their lead, the residential sector also posted significant growth owing to sustained demand. APAC capital accounted for over 70% of total investment, reaffirming the keen interest of regional funds in the Indian market.” – Arvind Nandan, India
Japan
“Persistent inflation and the prospect of rising interest rates are making investors more cautious and selective. However, investment sentiment remains positive due to the wide yield spread.” – Tetsuya Kaneko, Japan
Pakistan
“Lahore is a growing hub for commercial real estate with strong demand for Grade A and B offices, high occupancy rates, and significant upcoming developments.” – Nadine Malik, Pakistan
Philippines
“The Metro Manila office market is enjoying resilient vacancy rates despite new supply levels and the expansion of government offices is sustaining demand for specific submarkets. Average rents have dipped slightly due to aging building portfolios." – Joshua De Las Alas, Philippines
Macau
“Macau’s resurgent tourism sector is driving robust growth in the retail and hotel markets amid soaring mainland visitor arrivals.” – Franco Liu, Macau
Malaysia
“Activity in the data centre and semi-conductor industries, in addition to demand for township land from Malaysian developers, led to a near-tripling of the year-on-year total transaction value in Q2/2024.”– Nabeel Hussain, Malaysia
Singapore
“With the US Federal Reserve expected to cut interest rates at least once this year, the resistance to investment sales is likely to reduce a little.” – Alan Cheong, Singapore
South Korea
“Investor sentiment continued to improve, primarily for value-add offices and opportunistic logistics, with niche residential assets also gaining traction.” – JoAnn Hong, South Korea
Taiwan
“During the current wave of AI development, domestic and international technology giants have announced intentions to expand their presence in Taiwan, potentially driving leasing and sales activity in the industrial sector.” – Erin Ting, Taiwan
Thailand
“In 2024, Thailand aims to bolster tourism by prioritizing high-spending, long-term visitors through strategic initiatives promoting the LTR visa program and enhancing tourism infrastructure and safety standards." – Kunvara Boonsuk, Thailand
Vietnam
“Vietnam’s Q2 GDP growth is forecast to moderate to 5.3% YoY (from 5.7% in Q1). Economic challenges could persist in Q3, amid soft global demand, geopolitical tensions, and inflationary pressures, but locally positive FDI and infrastructure investment should provide support.” - Troy Griffiths, Vietnam