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This article is contributed by Taco Heidinga, CEO and Founder of Propcoach International Inc. and Global Strategic Advisor at Juwai IQI, who brings nearly 20 years of real estate expertise and a commitment to uplifting professionals globally.As we step into 2025, the landscape of global real estate investment is evolving rapidly, driven by shifting demographics, economic factors, and changing lifestyle preferences. Investors looking to purchase property outside their home countries will find a range of new trends and considerations that could shape their strategies in the coming year.Here Are 7 Key Insights to Navigate Global Real Estate in 20251. Focus on Migration CorridorsWith the rise of remote work, many individuals are seeking opportunities in countries that offer better quality of life, favorable climates, and vibrant communities. Key migration corridors, such as those between North America and Europe, or Southeast Asia and Australia, are becoming hot spots for investors. Understanding these trends is crucial, as properties in these regions tend to appreciate faster due to increased demand.2. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly InvestmentsThe global push for sustainability is influencing property choices. Investors are increasingly drawn to eco-friendly developments that incorporate green technologies and sustainable practices. Properties that boast energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and proximity to public transport are becoming more attractive, as they align with the values of environmentally conscious buyers and renters.3. Technology IntegrationThe integration of technology in real estate is reshaping how properties are bought and managed. Smart home technologies, virtual reality tours, and blockchain for secure transactions are becoming standard. Investors are looking for properties that not only embrace these technologies but also offer the potential for improved operational efficiencies and enhanced tenant experiences.4. Urban vs. Suburban DynamicsThe pandemic has altered the desirability of urban living. While major cities like London, New York, and Singapore remain attractive due to their economic opportunities, there is a notable shift towards suburban areas that offer larger spaces and more affordable living options. Investors should evaluate the potential for growth in suburban markets, especially those that provide easy access to urban centers.5. Regulatory Environments and Market StabilityUnderstanding the regulatory landscape of a foreign market is essential for any investor. Countries with favorable foreign ownership laws, transparent tax structures, and stable political environments are becoming increasingly appealing.Investors should conduct thorough due diligence to ensure that their investments are secure and compliant with local laws.6. Health and Wellness TrendsThe focus on health and wellness is influencing property design and investment decisions. Properties that incorporate wellness amenities, such as fitness centers, green spaces, and proximity to nature, are gaining traction.Investors should consider how these trends can enhance property value and appeal to potential tenants in a post-pandemic world.7. Diversification StrategiesIn an increasingly volatile global economy, diversification remains a key strategy for real estate investors. Many are looking beyond traditional markets to emerging economies that offer high growth potential. Countries in Africa and Latin America, for instance, are attracting attention for their burgeoning middle classes and urbanization trends.Click here to continue reading!Taco Heidinga, CEO and Founder of Propcoach International Inc. and Global Strategic Advisor at Juwai IQI, brings nearly 20 years of real estate expertise, training over 1,000 agents worldwide. His dedication to elevating industry professionals shines through his commitment to education, collaboration, and skill-building. With a vision to expand the Juwai IQI platform globally, Taco emphasizes innovation and exceptional customer service, setting new standards in the real estate industry.To get the latest news and insights on real estate, click the image below and join our Whatsapp channel!

The contents of this article were contributed by Dave Platter, Global Head of Public Relations at Juwai IQI and Forbes Council Official Member, connecting Juwai IQI’s leaders with top media outlets across the US, Europe, East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australia-New Zealand.Malaysia has solidified its position as the top ASEAN destination for international property investors, according to IQI Co-Founder and Group CEO Kashif Ansari. The country’s appealing property market and visa options are key strengths driving this achievement.Data reveals that over 9,800 holders of MM2H, PVIP, or Sarawak/Sabah visas have contributed RM5.1 billion (US$1.1 billion) to the economy through local spending. This amount is comparable to funding 51,000 affordable housing units.Foreign buyers, often part-time or full-time residents, play a significant role in boosting local economic growth and employment. Malaysia’s success in attracting these buyers is attributed to its stable property market and enticing visa programs tailored for businesspeople, digital nomads, and retirees.Mr. Ansari’s remarks have been featured by eight leading Malaysian media outlets, including Astro Awani, Bernama, and the New Straits TimesVisa Approvals and SpendingMalaysia’s visa programs, including MM2H, Sarawak MM2H, and PVIP, have seen growing interest, with 2,973 approvals in 2023 and an estimated annual spending of RM134,000 (US$30,000) per resident. These programs attract participants from countries such as China, the UK, Hong Kong, the US, and othersCompetitive AdvantagesCompared to its ASEAN rivals, Malaysia offers moderate financial thresholds for residency visas. Unlike some competing visa programs, Malaysia’s MM2H allows foreign residents to purchase homes. Additionally, the Sarawak and Sabah MM2H programs provide even more flexible requirements than the national scheme.Property Market StabilityMalaysia’s stable property prices make it a safe investment destination. By comparison, Thailand faces oversupply issues, and Indonesia’s Jakarta shows minimal growth. While Singapore leads in luxury property demand, its 60% stamp duty significantly deters foreign buyers. In contrast, Kuala Lumpur’s prime property prices remain stable, with slight upward potential.2025 OutlookIn his remarks, Mr. Ansari forecasted a 5% increase in foreign home purchases for 2025, which would translate to RM166 million in additional spending. Mainland China and Hong Kong are expected to remain the top sources of buyers.CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING!Dave Platter is Global Head of Public Relations for Juwai IQI and a Forbes Council Official Member. Moving every few years as a child, he had to learn to connect. Today, he helps Juwai IQI’s leaders obtain media coverage in the world’s top outlets in the US, Europe, East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australia - New Zealand.To get the latest news and insights on real estate, click the image below and join our Whatsapp channel!

This article is contributed by Shan Saeed, Chief Economist at Juwai IQIAs we enter 2025, the question looms; What does the future hold for global investors? That’s the big question. A recent analysis by Mike Bell of JP Morgan London paints a clear picture of the global economic outlook. The global economic landscape is marked by significant divergence. While the US demonstrates resilience, Europe faces increasing risks of recession. Central banks are expected to continue cutting rates, and we anticipate that the Federal Reserve (Fed) and the Bank of England (BoE) will implement more rate cuts than currently priced in by the markets between now and the end of 2025. In Europe, the recent PMI business survey data highlights a contraction in activity, particularly in the manufacturing sector. The service sector is also slowing, heightening concerns about a potential recession. The risk of US tariffs on European exports further exacerbates these concerns. We expect the European Central Bank (ECB) to implement an additional 25 basis point rate cut this year. However, internal debates within the ECB about the neutral rate suggest that rate cuts may proceed more cautiously than markets currently anticipate. The UK economy is also under strain, as business surveys point to a slowdown. The recent budget has influenced the BoE's stance, leading to expectations of more gradual rate cuts. The focus remains on inflation and wage growth, with the potential for deeper cuts if wage growth continues to moderateIn contrast, the US economy remains robust, driven by strong consumer spending and potential policy measures from the Trump administration. While some concerns persist about the labor market, overall growth prospects are positive, with the potential for above-trend growth in the coming year. Credit Fundamentals and Investment StrategiesDespite the risk of a European recession, European banks are likely to remain resilient, supported by strong regulatory capital ratios and healthy profitability. With an average common equity tier 1 ratio of 15.4%, these banks are well-equipped to withstand economic shocks. The regulatory buffer to requirements is substantial, averaging 400 basis points, providing a significant cushion against potential downturnsOur investment strategies prioritize maintaining high credit quality, focusing on single-A-rated names and above. This approach enhances portfolio resilience amidst tight spreads on lower-rated credits. We are also selectively adding duration to our portfolios when market conditions present favorable opportunities, particularly in the US and UK, where rate cuts are less aggressively priced. ConclusionWhile recession risks have increased in Europe, the US outlook remains strong. Our liquidity strategies arewell-positioned to navigate these conditions, focusing on credit quality and active duration management tooptimize returns.GDP Outlook for 2025 Check out newslettere now!

This article is contributed by Irhamy Ahmad MRICS, Founder & Managing Director of Irhamy Valuers InternationalStrategically located along the Strait of Malacca, one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, Malaysia is a prominent maritime nation. Its seaports play a critical role in both regional and global trade, functioning as transshipment hubs for Asia and gateways to the Southeast Asian market. Through its well-connected network of container ports, Malaysia efficiently links domestic industries to international markets.Malaysia’s container trade has grown exponentially over the past two decades. Accounting for over 25% of all containers handled in the region today, the country has witnessed a remarkable 400% increase in container throughput since 2000, when it contributed only 10%. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Malaysia has ranked 5th globally in shipping line connectivity since 2019, ahead of more economically developed nations such as Japan, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. It comes as no surprise that Malaysia is home to two of the largest port facilities in the world. Leading the way, Port Klang and the Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) handle 64% of the total cargo throughput by Malaysian ports. Both ports consistently rank among the top 20 busiest ports globally. In the 2023 Lloyd’s List of one hundred container ports, Port Klang rose two places to 11th (up from 13th in 2022), while PTP secured 15th position, reinforcing Malaysia’s competitiveness in global tradeThe table below (Figure 1) provides a snapshot of Malaysia’s key container ports, detailing their operational capacities and highlighting their unique attributes. Each port contributes to the country’s maritime infrastructure, supporting both international and regional tradeWhile Port Klang and PTP dominate Malaysia’s port landscape, regional container ports also play an essential role in fostering balanced trade development. Penang Port, strategically positioned in northern Peninsular Malaysia, serves as a critical hub for industries in the region. Kuantan Port facilitates trade along the east coast, providing access to the South China Sea and broader international markets. Similarly, East Malaysian ports such as Kuching, Bintulu, and Sapangar Bay are pivotal in linking Sarawak and Sabah's resource-rich economies to global trade networks. Each of these ports is tailored to its region's unique needs, ensuring seamless goods movement throughout Malaysia and beyond. The nation’s strategic location and advanced port infrastructure have been instrumental in attracting global shipping lines, spurring economic growth, and enabling efficient trade flows. To sustain this momentum, the nation must tackle emerging challenges, including port congestion, climate adaptation, and growing competition in the region. By embracing smart port technologies, increasing container yard capacities, and expanding harbour drafts, Malaysia’s ports are well-positioned to meet future demands and remain competitive on the global stage. Malaysia’s container ports are the backbone of its economy, driving industrial growth and facilitating seamless global trade connections. Port Klang and PTP lead as internationally acclaimed transshipment hubs, while regional ports like Penang, Kuching, and Sapangar Bay cater to diverse economic demands. As Malaysia continues to invest in its maritime infrastructure and embrace technological advancements, it is well-positioned to maintain its status as a leading logistics hub in Southeast Asia and beyond.Check out newsletter now!