The third installment of The Outlook media roundtable series 2019 recently offered insights on how Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) benefit not just the real-estate sector but the economy at large. Held by Lamudi, in partnership with Colliers International Philippines, the Subdivision and Housing Developers’ Association, and Holcim Philippines, the roundtable explored how companies , using REITs, can raise capital to fund and promote real estate investments.
Hannah Yulo, chief investment officer of DoubleDragon Properties Corporation, said that REIT “answers investors’ demand for a tax-efficient and yield-driven vehicle as they provide greater liquidity and more stable return.” Gary Hablero, director for commercial investments at RE/MAX Capital, emphasized how REIT is a viable investment for those who are saving for retirement. Reggie Cariaso, head of strategy, products, and support under the Corporate Banking Group of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), said REITs are very affordable from a quantitative standpoint. “On average, the minimum investment is from Php5,000 to Php10,000,” he explained. Joey Bondoc, research manager of Colliers International Philippines, noted that harnessing the full potential of the REITs will make the Philippines at par with other Southeast Asian markets like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. Bhavna Suresh, CEO of Lamudi, moderated the media roundtable discussion.
