International News

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Scandinavian countries excel in quality of life, Denmark leads the way

Author : PNT Bureau
Denmark has ranked first for quality of life in a report by the U.S. News & World Report, which assessed factors like affordability, political stability, individual freedom, healthcare, and job opportunities. Despite placing 10th overall, Denmark excelled in social purpose, raising children, and racial equality. Scandinavian countries, including Sweden, Norway, and Finland, also ranked highly in quality of life. Denmark's GDP per capita is USD 76,688, and it was noted for strong social values, job security, and healthcare. Denmark's top ranking reflects its balanced development and commitment to public welfare, serving as a model for other nations aiming to improve quality of life....
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Former RHONY Star's renovated Bridgehampton property hits market for USD 6 million

Author : PNT Bureau
A former Real Housewives of New York City star's Bridgehampton estate, acquired in 2013 for USD 2 million, is now on the market for USD 5.995 million. Spanning 2,500 square feet, the property includes five bedrooms, a guest cottage, a heated pool, and expansive gardens. The accurately designed home features modern amenities and beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces, providing privacy and luxury. Conveniently located near local beaches and shops, it represents a rare opportunity to own a well-maintained estate in the Hamptons....
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Portugal's housing market shows promising growth for investors

Author : PNT Bureau
A recent analysis reveals that now is an ideal time for investors to explore property purchases in Portugal, as the housing market shows promising growth. In Q2 2024, 33,350 dwellings were sold, marking a 4.9% increase from the previous quarter. With economic growth, rising disposable incomes, and improving consumer confidence, experts predict further price increases due to limited supply. The resort sector, particularly in the Algarve, offers attractive returns and lifestyle benefits, with prices rising by 9.8% in 2023. Investors can explore opportunities at the Moving to Portugal Show in London on October 17, 2024, featuring key resort representatives and estate agents....
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LA Empire expands property portfolio to Cambridge, Massachusetts

Author : PNT Bureau
LA Empire, a Boston-based rental and leasing company founded by entrepreneur Ankit Lodha, has expanded its property portfolio to Cambridge, Massachusetts. This new listing features a fully furnished 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment, available as a mid-term rental in the Kendall Square neighbourhood, known for its vibrant business district and proximity to major corporations. Lodha expressed excitement about the expansion, highlighting positive customer feedback and the company's focus on luxury and privacy. With flexible leases ranging from 1 to 11 months, LA Empire aims to provide unique vacation experiences. The company has rapidly grown, amassing nearly 30 properties and assets exceeding 30 million USD....
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Paris Olympic Village transformed into affordable housing units

Author : PNT Bureau
France is transforming the 52-hectare Paris Olympic Village, which was planned for the 2024 Games, into residential flats. The complex is located in Seine-Saint-Denis, one of France's poorest districts, and consists of 12 residential buildings and an office block. Approximately 20% of the units are designated for social housing, with some reserved for students and low-income buyers through a bail reel solidaire plan. Prices approximate EUR 7,000 per square metre, with completion scheduled in late 2025. Developers, including Icade, hope to revitalise the region by selling or reserving 50 units by mid-July, as part of larger efforts to boost the local economy....
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China plans mortgage rate cuts to spur economy amid growth concerns and deflation risks

Author : PNT Bureau
China is planning to reduce interest rates on over USD 5 trillion in outstanding mortgages to lower borrowing costs and boost consumption. This move comes as China faces weak domestic spending and deflation risks. While new loans have record-low interest rates, most existing mortgages won't be repriced until next year, causing frustration among homeowners. Analysts warn that China might miss its 5% economic growth target, further shaking confidence in the economy. Lowering rates could pressure banks, whose margins have already fallen to record lows, but could save homeowners over 300 billion yuan in annual interest expenses....
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Winkworth reports 20% revenue growth as London housing market rebounds

Author : PNT Bureau
Winkworth reports a 20% revenue increase to GBP 5.1 million in the first half of the year, with pre-tax profits rising by 26% to GBP 1 million. London's housing market has outperformed the national average, with sales income up by 11%, reflecting renewed interest in city living without significant price hikes. Winkworth's CEO, Agace, attributed the improved performance to more properties entering the market and transactions returning to normal levels. While the housing market had slowed due to higher interest rates, it recovered in early 2024, driven by expectations of lower borrowing costs and positive economic conditions, with optimism for further growth ahead....
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Saudi Arabia invests USD 1.3 trillion in real estate and infrastructure projects

Author : PNT Bureau
Saudi Arabia is making a significant shift in its economic strategy by investing over USD 1.3 trillion in real estate and infrastructure projects. This ambitious plan includes major developments like Neom, Diriyah Gate, and Qiddiya, all designed to reduce the country's dependency on oil. By 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to attract USD 100 billion in foreign direct investment and welcome 150 million tourists annually. The projects will add 362,000 new hotel rooms and various giga developments along the western seaboard. Despite challenges such as labour shortages and supply chain issues, these initiatives are positioning Saudi Arabia to become the world's largest construction market....
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Singapore faces challenges in maintaining housing affordability rates

Author : PNT Bureau
Singapore is closely monitoring both private and public housing resale markets after introducing new cooling measures in August to improve public flat affordability rates. The Ministry of National Development stated it will act decisively if prices deviate from economic fundamentals. This response followed a parliamentary question about possible further restrictions in the private condominium market. In July, private home sales hit their highest since March, recovering from a weak first half of the year. The government continues efforts to increase supply of private housing as concerns over affordability and rising private home prices persist in the Singaporean real estate market....
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Egypt's housing project for low-income citizens attracts 1.6 million applicants

Author : PNT Bureau
Egypt has launched the world's largest low-income housing project, the "Housing for All Egyptians" initiative, which spans all governorates, including both existing and new cities. Led by Minister Sherif El-Sherbiny, the initiative aims to provide affordable, contemporary housing, with over one million units already completed or under development. Since 2014, the project has received 1.6 million applications, and mortgage financing has reached EGP 74 billion. The project also includes middle-income housing and is designed to stimulate social and economic growth. The average cost of a dwelling unit is EGP 185,000, with beneficiaries mainly coming from the business sector, government, and freelance professions....
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