11 Apr 2024

The Reserve Bank of India's decision to maintain the repo rate at 6.5% is welcomed by the real estate market, especially homebuyers, ensuring stability in home loan interest rates. Industry experts anticipate sustained momentum in home purchases, driven by robust sales in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi NCR, and Bengaluru. Stable interest rates are expected to boost demand in the affordable and mid-segment housing market. This decision reinforces investor confidence and supports future investment and development in the real estate sector, aligned with a projected GDP growth rate of 7% for FY2025.Read more

10 Apr 2024

Starting from April 1, 2024, Jaipur's circle rates surged by 10%, impacting property purchase costs. This increase, implemented by the Rajasthan government as part of its annual budget, aims to boost stamp duty revenue. Jaipur's diverse property market spans from premium areas like C-Scheme and MI Road, with rates ranging from INR 90,000 to INR 1,25,000 per sq. ft, to more affordable options in Amer-Jal Mahal, priced between INR 12,000 and INR 42,000 per sq. ft. While this hike may elevate registration and stamp duty fees, previous year's stamp duty rebates remain unchanged, potentially mitigating some additional costs. Despite the increase, Jaipur remains an appealing destination with various options catering to different budgets and preferences.Read more

10 Apr 2024

Indian investors are increasingly turning to Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) as avenues for stable returns and capital appreciation. Fundraising through these trusts saw a significant surge, reaching INR 17,116 crore (USD 2.7 billion) in the fiscal year 2023-24, an increase from the previous year's INR 1,166 crore (USD 18.2 million). SEBI's regulatory changes, such as reducing minimum lot sizes and allowing bank loans for purchases, have facilitated easier access to these investment options. Additionally, the government's focus on infrastructure development provides a steady pipeline of assets for InvITs, appealing to investors seeking stable returns. SEBI's amendments enabling fractional ownership through Small and Medium (SM) REITs further democratize real estate investment, potentially growing the market to over USD 5 billion by 2030.Read more

10 Apr 2024

Indiabulls Real Estate Ltd. (IBREL) secured a substantial INR 3,911 crore (USD 61 million) investment from Blackstone Group and Embassy Group, enhancing its financial standing and growth prospects. The funds will support project completion, new developments, potential acquisitions, and working capital needs. Approval for INR 1,853 crore (USD 29 million) in asset acquisitions underscores strategic expansion efforts. Embassy Group's involvement includes contributing key assets at discounted rates and offering first access to their portfolio. This investment aligns with the Indian real estate sector's anticipated rebound, with IBREL focusing on high-growth markets and forging a strategic partnership for long-term growth.Read more

09 Apr 2024

In Q1 2024, India's housing market saw a 14% increase in sales compared to the previous year, with over 130,170 units sold across the top seven cities. MMR and Pune led the sales rise, comprising 51% of total transactions. New launches remained stable, with MMR leading at 33,800 units, while Bengaluru saw a notable 22% increase. However, Delhi-NCR experienced a significant drop in new launches. Unsold inventory decreased by 7%, notably in NCR. Property prices surged by 10-32% annually, posing affordability concerns despite positive market momentum. The future trajectory of the housing market awaits observation in subsequent quarters.Read more

09 Apr 2024

Nivara Home Finance secured USD 10 million from Baring Private Equity India to fuel its expansion in affordable housing finance. Founded in 2015, Nivara targets micro-entrepreneurs and salaried individuals with housing loans ranging from INR 5 lakh to INR 7.5 lakh, focusing on underserved markets. With a presence in five states and 63 branches, the company boasts INR 500 crore in assets under management and a low GNPA of 0.58%. Co-founded by CV Rao, Sunil Rohokale, and Monik Koticha, Nivara initially self-funded with INR 100 crore. The deal, facilitated by EY, highlights Baring Private Equity India's confidence in Nivara's asset quality and growth potential.Read more

08 Apr 2024

Warburg Pincus and Bain Capital are leading the race to acquire Shriram Housing Finance Ltd (SHFL), valued at INR 6,500 crore. However, bids from both private equity giants reportedly fall below expectations, ranging from INR 5,300-5,500 crore. This sale represents Shriram Finance's strategic move to leverage SHFL's growth in affordable housing. With the housing finance sector witnessing positive trends and SHFL's potential for further expansion, investors are eyeing the company's scalable platform. The final outcome hinges on negotiations that balance price and growth strategy aligned with SHFL's strengths in affordable housing.Read more

08 Apr 2024

Flexible workspace providers like Table Space, Bhive, Indiqube, and EFC are adapting strategies to acquire properties in India instead of leasing, responding to increased demand post-pandemic. Forecasts project Indian flexible office market growth from 55 to 100-140 million square feet by 2030. Table Space recently raised USD 325 million to increase its operational capacity and acquire assets. Similarly, EFC aims to increase operational seats from 32,000 to 92,000 by 2026. However, experts caution that asset acquisition may only be viable for select players due to the high investment requirements. Additionally, specific markets limit real estate acquisition in India's flexible workspace sector.Read more

PNT Reporter

08 Apr 2024

SWAMIH Fund has invested INR 300 crore in Hubtown's Rising City project in Mumbai, with the goal of speeding up completion and providing assistance to over 550 homebuyers who are awaiting possession. Rising City, located on the Eastern Express Highway, consists of six buildings with over 700 units. Despite initial delays owing to regulatory problems, the project acquired all essential licences by 2023. Hubtown, the sole developer presently, is dedicated to ensuring prompt delivery. The investment demonstrates SWAMIH Funds commitment to revitalising stalled real estate projects, tackling difficulties in the affordable housing sector, and supporting growth in Mumbai's thriving property market.Read more

PNT Reporter

05 Apr 2024

Prestige Estate Projects, a leading Indian real estate company, witnessed a remarkable surge in its stock price on Monday, soaring by nearly 9% and reaching a high of INR 21,272 per share on the Bombay Stock Exchange. This surge follows the announcement of significant funding received for future projects, including a INR 2,001 crore loan from Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and Kotak Alternative Investment Fund. The funds, totalling INR 18,000 crore, will fuel the development of new projects across four major Indian cities, with Prestige contributing 30-40% of the investment. Additionally, Prestige has expanded its ownership in Prestige Realty Ventures and streamlined its portfolio by transferring equity stakes. With projects in 13 major cities and a robust pipeline, Prestige Estate Projects solidifies its position as a key player in Indian real estate.Read more