OUE REIT: Delivering Stability and Growth Amid Uncertain Market Conditions

OUE Reit caught my attention during this period of macroeconomic uncertainties and I am one of those investors are increasingly seeking resilient income-generating assets with defensive positioning and growth potential.

OUE Real Estate Investment Trust (OUE Reit) continues to stand out in Singapore’s REIT landscape, thanks to its well-diversified portfolio, proactive capital management, and strategic asset reconstitution.

OUE Reit's Steady Portfolio Performance

OUE REIT maintained a stable portfolio in 2H 2024, supported by high-quality assets across the office, hospitality, and retail sectors.

• Revenue Growth: Revenue increased 1.7% YoY to S$148.8 million in 2H 2024, primarily driven by the stable operational performance of the Singapore office portfolio and the successful asset enhancement of Crowne Plaza Changi Airport.
• Office Segment Resilience: Committed occupancy of Singapore office properties remained strong at 94.6% as of 31 December 2024, with a full-year rental reversion of 10.7%.
• Retail Performance: Mandarin Gallery continued to perform well, reaching 98.2% occupancy (+2.9 ppt QoQ) with a high positive rental reversion of 19.8%.
• Hospitality Growth: Hospitality revenue for 2H 2024 grew 5.4% YoY, supported by a 25.5% increase in RevPAR at Crowne Plaza Changi Airport following its asset enhancement.

Strategic Capital Management

OUE REIT continues to optimize its balance sheet, proactively securing funding at attractive rates:

• Record-Low Bond Issuance Yield: The REIT undertook a S$120 million bond re-tap issuance in November 2024, achieving a tightened reoffer yield of 3.78% – the lowest bond issuance yield in OUE REIT’s history.
• Well-Spread Debt Maturity Profile: Weighted average debt term of 3.0 years with only S$116 million (4.9%) of total debt due in 2025.
• Sustainable Financing: 69.4% of borrowings are green financing, reinforcing OUE REIT’s commitment to sustainability.

Portfolio Reconstitution: Strengthening Singapore-Centric Strategy

A key highlight of 2024 was the successful divestment of Lippo Plaza in Shanghai:

• Sale Price: RMB1,917.0 million (~S$357.4 million), unlocking capital for reinvestment.
• Portfolio Optimization: With this divestment, 100% of OUE REIT’s portfolio is now in Singapore, increasing its exposure to a stable and mature market.
• Future Growth Plans: Management is actively evaluating acquisition opportunities in Singapore and other key gateway cities such as Sydney.

Enhancing Growth Prospects

Looking ahead, OUE REIT remains well-positioned to capitalize on market recovery:

• Hospitality Sector Strength: With global travel continuing its recovery, Hilton Singapore Orchard and Crowne Plaza Changi Airport are poised to benefit from increased visitor arrivals and dynamic pricing strategies.
• Office Market Stability: The Singapore Grade A Core CBD office market saw 0.4% YoY rental growth in 2024, with rents projected to increase by 2.0% in 2025.
• Retail Leasing Confidence: Orchard Road retail rents rose 0.8% QoQ to S$37.75 psf/month, underpinned by the recovery of tourism and strong tenant demand.

Conclusion: A Resilient, Growth-Oriented REIT

OUE REIT continues to be a compelling investment option for those seeking a combination of stable income generation and potential capital appreciation. With a well-balanced portfolio, proactive capital management, and strategic asset repositioning, the REIT remains well-equipped to navigate macroeconomic uncertainties and deliver long-term value to investors. As always, investors should conduct their own due diligence and assess market conditions before making investment decisions.