With Fed rate-easing cycle under way, which real estate markets offer value for money?



Now that the US Federal Reserve has embarked on a policy easing cycle, with some other central banks around the world following suit, property investors must treat these changes as temporary and remember that there is no substitute for proper research into specific markets and assets, according to consultants.
The Fed cut its target rate by 25 basis points to a range of 4 to 4.25 per cent during the sixth meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee last week. The Fed’s easing was widely expected and is seen as the start of an easing cycle that is likely to extend into next year.

Given the outsize influence of US monetary policy on the global economy and with the US dollar remaining the main currency for worldwide trade, the Fed’s decision is likely to trigger similar easing steps for other central banks. Add in the complexities of regulation, taxation and borrowing across borders, and investors considering property assets across the globe must plan carefully, according to Liam Bailey, global head of research at Knight Frank.

“Investors need to think very clearly about their objectives,” he said. “What are they seeking to achieve? Is the investment about securing an income stream, or capital growth or about a defensive strategy – to put money into what they perceive as a safe-haven market?”

Across all markets, investors must engage in deep research, considering currency impacts, entry and exit taxes, financing, running costs and liquidity, he said. “Treat policy as a live variable rather than a constant,” he added.

For investors based in Hong Kong, where the local currency is pegged to the US dollar, it was imperative to be savvy and watchful for any sudden shift in US monetary policy, advisers said.

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