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China’s ‘Project Whitelist’: Boosting real estate amid economic challenges

Author : PNT Bureau
China has started “Project Whitelist”, which allows city governments in China to recommend residential projects to banks for financial support. Launched recently, the initiative has been embraced by 276 cities across 31 provinces, proposing about 6,000 real estate projects for consideration. By February 28, commercial banks had approved loans exceeding 200 billion yuan ($27.81 billion) for eligible ventures. The mechanism aims to coordinate financing efforts between city authorities and financial institutions to meet project requirements and boost the housing market. It signifies a concerted effort to stabilize and support China’s property sector amid economic challenges....
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January sees modest increase in U.S. new home sales amid regional variations

Author : PNT Bureau
Despite a minor January uptick, U.S. new single-family home sales rose, hindered by a Southern region decline. Ongoing demand stems from existing home shortages. Commerce Department data showed a 1.5% increase to 661,000 units, adjusted from December's 651,000. Economists projected a higher rise to 680,000, but freezing weather may have deterred buyers. While Northeast, West, and Midwest sales surged, Southern sales fell. Future sales indicators were positive, but rising mortgage rates could slow momentum. Expectations of declining rates suggest growth potential, especially with homeowners securing low rates. Median home price dropped to $420,700, with fewer price reductions. Inventory increased slightly to 456,000 homes, sustaining an 8.3-month supply....
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Real estate prices in Ras Al Khaimah are projected to rise by 25% in 2024

Author : PNT Bureau
Metropolitan Premium Properties (MPP) forecasts a robust 25% increase in Ras Al Khaimah's (RAK) real estate prices following a staggering 50% rise in 2023, attributed to a growing deficit in residential and hotel accommodations. To capitalize on this surge, MPP is inaugurating a new office in RAK's Mina Al Arab to cater to soaring demand from diverse investors. The scarcity of residential units and hotel rooms is driving property prices upwards, particularly for luxury properties. MPP's expansion aims to tap into a global investor base, positioning RAK as a prime real estate destination amid transformative developments, such as the opening of the Wynn gaming resort. As RAK enters a new era of prosperity, MPP's strategic move underscores the emirate's bright real estate future....
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Oman introduces a smart home initiative for residential apartments and offices

Author : PNT Bureau
The Smart Home project in Al Ghala Heights, Oman, signifies a groundbreaking venture in real estate, offering innovative smart residential apartments and offices. Led by Al Faiha Development Company, the project promises a unique living experience with comprehensive smart features and amenities. Spanning 13,000 square metres, it integrates cutting-edge technology and luxury, aligning with Oman's vision for economic diversification. Upon completion, it will serve as a testament to modern living and contribute to the country's tourism and real estate sectors....
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Challenges mount for the luxury real estate market in Hong Kong

Author : PNT Bureau
The luxury real estate market in Hong Kong faces significant challenges ahead, as indicated by data from Spacious.hk. Inquiries for homes priced at $10 million or more have dropped by 45% over the past year, reflecting a broader trend of declining interest in high-end properties. Meanwhile, inquiries for homes priced below $1.3 million and those between $1.3 million and $3.2 million also saw notable decreases. The price index for private homes hit a seven-year low by the end of 2023, underscoring the subdued state of the housing market in Hong Kong amidst economic uncertainties and shifting buyer preferences....
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Saudi Arabia’s fiscal crossroads balances ambition and investment

Author : PNT Bureau
Saudi Arabia's economic transformation under Prince Mohammed's leadership is marked by ambitious initiatives like the $48 billion property development and global airline establishment. However, cash reserves have dropped significantly, prompting plans for a substantial Saudi Aramco stock sale. Social liberalization measures, including integrating women into the workforce, accompany assertive foreign policies. Gigaprojects like Diriyah and Neom showcase futuristic city planning. The Public Investment Fund's assets surged to $2 trillion, but the government faces a $21 billion budget deficit and increasing debt, necessitating additional fiscal risk. Despite economic challenges, Riyadh aims to raise funds through Aramco stock sales and bond offerings to sustain its transformative vision....
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China reduces mortgage rates to stimulate the property market

Author : PNT Bureau
China has implemented a significant reduction in its benchmark mortgage reference rate to stimulate economic activity and rejuvenate the property market. The five-year loan prime rate (LPR) was cut by 25 basis points, signalling policymakers' commitment to providing stimulus support. While impacting financial markets and boosting property stocks, the move aims to stabilise confidence, promote investment, and support real estate market development. Despite challenges, China remains focused on fostering stability and growth in the sector....
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Office buildings in the USA are experiencing a 30 percent price decline

Author : PNT Bureau
America's office market is experiencing notable changes, with Morgan Stanley analysts predicting further price declines due to ongoing challenges, primarily driven by remote work trends. Office property prices have already dropped by about 20% from their peak, with vacancies reaching record highs. Concerns also arise from the impending debt refinancing in the commercial real estate sector, posing additional hurdles. As distress mounts, stakeholders must adapt to evolving dynamics and seek innovative solutions to navigate the challenges ahead....
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NTT Ltd. announces plans for inaugural data centre campus in Paris

Author : PNT Bureau
NTT Ltd., a leading IT infrastructure company, announces its inaugural data centre campus in Paris, spanning 14.4 hectares with a capacity of 84 MW across three centres. Located strategically near digital infrastructure, the site in Le Coudray-Montceaux and Corbeil-Essonnes signifies Paris's importance in NTT's global expansion. CEO Doug Adams highlights collaboration with local entities and the site's significance in meeting rising data demands. Logistics Capital Partners facilitated site acquisition and will aid in development. This move aligns with global expansion plans amid growing data needs, complementing recent ventures in the US and India, showcasing NTT's substantial investment exceeding USD 10 billion....
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UK implements groundbreaking biodiversity rules for housing development

Author : PNT Bureau
The United Kingdom has set a historic precedent by enforcing mandatory biodiversity net gain (BNG) rules for housing developers. Effective immediately, all new major housing projects must deliver a minimum 10% benefit for nature. Smaller developments will follow suit in April, while rules for national infrastructure projects are expected in 2025. The move reflects the UK's commitment to halt species decline by 2030. Investors, including Gresham House, foresee substantial opportunities in the emerging market for nature, estimated to be worth hundreds of millions annually. The initiative aims to harmonise development with nature conservation, transforming communities sustainably....
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