SGX Market Strategist, Equity & Fixed Income, Singapore Exchange Ltd (SGX)

Geoff Howie

SGX Market Strategist, Equity & Fixed Income

Asia’s leading multi-asset exchange

Singapore Exchange Ltd (SGX)

Singapore Exchange is Asia’s leading and trusted market infrastructure, facilitating the exchange of capital and ideas to create value for people, businesses and economies. As a multi-asset exchange operating equity, fixed income and derivatives markets to the highest regulatory standards, SGX is a vertically integrated business that provides listing, trading, clearing, settlement, depository and data services.

With about 40% of listed companies and over 80% of listed bonds originating outside of Singapore as well as established linkages across the region and in Europe, SGX is Asia’s most international and connected exchange. Offering a full suite of derivatives products across Asian equity indices, commodities and currencies, SGX is the world’s most liquid international market for the benchmark equity indices of China, India, Japan and ASEAN.

As Asia’s pioneering central counterparty, SGX is globally recognised for its risk management and clearing capabilities, and was one of the first globally to adopt the Principles for Financial Market Infrastructure.

Headquartered in AAA-rated Singapore, SGX has over 800 employees including offices in Beijing, Chicago, Hong Kong, London, New York, Mumbai, San Francisco, Shanghai and Tokyo.

Equity Bottom-Up

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 <div class='content-caption'>Suntec REIT - CEO</div>
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With more than three decades of financial and real estate management experience under his belt, Chong Kee Hiong increasingly values the objectivity, flexibility and insight that comes with keeping an open mind. 
These characteristics in turn boost creativity, critical thinking, and lay the foundation for lifelong learning, said the Chief Executive Oﬃcer of the manager of SGX-listed Suntec Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT). 
“It’s important to have an open mind when faced with uncertainty and challenges; never rush into decisions,” he pointed out. “Often, if we know the issues, we’re likely to be able to find solutions - these issues are then within our control.” 
"We should focus on building our knowledge base, and the capacity to adapt and diversify, to ensure there are more “controllable” than “uncontrollable” events. This would help us to sleep better at night.” 
Open minds can also open a multitude of doors. “We must always be ready to take on new opportunities and challenges when they arise,” Chong added.  
“To do so, we have to adopt a mindset that actively and continuously looks for learning opportunities, so as to equip ourselves with diversified skillsets over time.” 
Chong, who is an elected Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, was appointed CEO of the REIT manager, ARA Trust Management (Suntec) Ltd, in January 2019. 
Prior to joining the REIT Manager, Chong was CEO of OUE Hospitality REIT Management Pte Ltd from 2013 to 2018. He helmed The Ascott Ltd from 2012 to 2013, and Ascott Residence Trust Management Ltd from 2005 to 2012. Prior to that, he was Raffles Holdings Ltd’s Chief Financial Officer, and began his career in audit with KPMG Peat Marwick in 1990. 
Chong holds a Bachelor of Accountancy degree from National University of Singapore. He has also completed Harvard Business School's Advanced Management Program, and is a member of the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants. 
Looking back on his 30-year career journey, highlights include developing skillsets and nurturing talent. “The greatest satisfaction is being able to learn and mature on the job. It’s also heartening to see fellow colleagues growing in their roles, and to be able to play a part in their work and learning journeys,” Chong added. 
Listed in December 2004, Suntec REIT aims to invest in income-producing real estate primarily used for office and/or retail purposes. The REIT is managed by ARA Trust Management (Suntec) Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of ARA Asset Management Ltd, which is Asia Pacific’s largest real assets manager with US$95 billion in gross assets under management (AUM). 
Suntec REIT holds properties in Suntec City, Singapore’s largest integrated commercial development (including one of Singapore’s largest shopping malls), a 66.3% interest in Suntec Singapore Convention &amp; Exhibition Centre, a one-third interest in One Raffles Quay, as well as a one-third interest in Marina Bay Financial Centre Towers 1 and 2 and the Marina Bay Link Mall.  
Down under in Australia, it owns the following commercial buildings: a 100% interest in 177 Pacific Highway, Sydney, 100% of 21 Harris Street, Pyrmont, Sydney, 50% of Southgate Complex, Melbourne, 50% of Olderfleet 477 Collins Street, Melbourne, and 100% of 55 Currie Street, Adelaide.  Opportunities in Crisis 
To boost income stability and enhance geographical diversification, the REIT made its first foray in London, the UK, with the acquisition of a 50% stake in Nova Properties in December 2020. It also acquired The Minster Building, its second property in London, in June 2021.  
These assets were a strategic fit with Suntec REIT’s existing portfolio of high-quality commercial assets in Singapore and Australia. Lower yielding commercial assets were divested to partially fund these acquisitions, which were higher yielding than the assets divested, and accretive in both Distribution Per Unit (DPU) and Net Asset Value (NAV). 
“Despite pandemic-induced difficulties, we’ve succeeded in enhancing unitholder value through active portfolio management,” Chong noted. “The phrase “with every crisis, comes opportunity” has never been more apt.” 
Presently, Suntec REIT’s AUM stands at S$11.6 billion across 10 properties in Singapore (71% of AUM), Australia (16% of AUM), and the UK (13% of AUM). The REIT continues to be anchored by the resilient office sector, which contributes more than 85% of its total income. 
“While Suntec REIT remains Singapore-centric, we will further boost income stability by sourcing for good quality, accretive assets. Overseas assets are expected to grow to between 30% to 40% of AUM over the next few years,” he added. 
Apart from unitholders, the REIT is also focused on working with tenants for a mutually beneficial long-term relationship. “In these unprecedented times, the need to share risks and rewards in business relationships is amplified,” Chong noted. 
Suntec REIT has provided a raft of tenant assistance measures, including flexible operating hours, complimentary marketing support, increased seating capacity for food and beverage tenants, and rental rebates for retail tenants, to help mitigate challenges from the pandemic. Some of these measures continue to remain in place. 
Looking ahead, prospects for the REIT’s office portfolio remain bright. 
“While hybrid working arrangements are likely to continue, the physical office will remain relevant as the conduit to bring employees together to build corporate culture,” Chong noted. 
“In addition, aspects of work like teamwork, collaboration, innovation and mentoring are most effective in face-to-face settings. Surveys have also shown that employees want to return to the office three to four days a week, unlike contrasting feedback at the start of the pandemic.” 
The REIT expects its overall Singapore office portfolio to perform well, with revenue growth driven by higher occupancy and cumulative positive rent reversions achieved for the past 13 quarters. 
“Office revenues from Australia and UK assets will remain resilient as they are underpinned by strong occupancies and long weighted average lease expiries,” he added. “In particular, annual rent escalations provide upside to the Australia assets.” Future-Proofing Assets 
As for the REIT’s retail properties in Singapore, “green shoots of recovery” have appeared, particularly with the re-opening of the economy and high vaccination levels in the population. 
“Despite some border restrictions, and a tightening of safe-distancing measures, tenant sales at Suntec City Mall have continued to recover faster than footfall increases since the fourth quarter of 2020,” Chong said. “We’ve seen tenant sales recovering to 75% of 2019 levels versus footfall, which is at 50% of 2019 levels.” 
In addition, a shift in consumer behaviour has emerged - shoppers now window-shop much less. Instead, they seek novel and experiential concepts and brands. 
“At Suntec City, we’ve been proactively future-proofing our mall to better retain and attract customers,” he said. 
Despite COVID-19 disruptions, 19 new-to-market or new-to-Suntec brands were introduced this year, of which 50% catered to Singaporeans’ desire for new F&amp;B concepts. The REIT Manager has also increased the number of activity-based and experiential concepts to around 35% of the mall’s total leaseable area.  
“This, together with more than 25% of Suntec City dedicated to F&amp;B offerings, will strengthen the mall’s performance, making it more sustainable and allowing it to ride the wave of recovery.” 
Apart from day-to-day operational priorities, Suntec REIT is also focused on its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) goals. “We strongly believe in the importance of integrating sustainability into our strategies, operations and acquisitions,” Chong said. 
“Building certifications such as Greenmark, NABERS, BREEAM, LEEDS will become more important. Whilst the majority of our buildings across Singapore, Australia and London have attained green certification, we continue to work towards enhancing the ratings by improving energy and water consumption efficiencies and reducing use of natural resources.” 
In recognition of its sustainability leadership, Suntec REIT was awarded the GRESB highest accolade of Global Sector Leader for the Office-Listed category, and ranked Number One in Asia (Office). The REIT also retained the highest GRESB 5 Star rating. Established in 2009, GRESB is one of the leading ESG benchmarks for real estate and infrastructure investments globally. 
Meanwhile, for this 55-year-old, time outside the office revolves around serving the community. To recharge, he enjoys walking, running or golfing. 
In terms of advice for his four boys, aged 15 to 23, and staff, he has this to offer: Cultivate the desire and drive to work hard, through which you can then achieve your aspirations, and be in the position to help others. 
“Perseverance, maintaining the principles of being fair and objective, being sincere, and having respect for others - these are all values close to my heart.” Suntec REIT 
Listed in December 2004, Suntec REIT holds properties in Suntec City, Singapore’s largest  integrated commercial development (including one of Singapore’s largest  shopping malls), a 66.3% interest in Suntec Singapore Convention &amp; Exhibition Centre, a one-third interest in One Raffles Quay, as well as a one-third interest in Marina  Bay Financial Centre Towers 1 and 2 and the Marina Bay Link Mall. Suntec REIT holds a 100% interest in a commercial building located at 177 Pacific Highway, Sydney, a 100% interest in a commercial building located at 21 Harris Street, Pyrmont, Sydney, a 50.0% interest in Southgate Complex, Melbourne, a 50.0% interest in a commercial building located at Olderfleet 477 Collins Street, Melbourne and a 100% interest in a commercial building located at 55 Currie Street, Adelaide, Australia. Suntec REIT also holds a 50.0% interest in Nova Properties and a 100% interest in The Minster Building, both located in London, UK. Suntec REIT is managed by an external manager, ARA Trust  Management  (Suntec) Ltd.  
The company website is: <a href="http://www.suntecreit.com.">www.suntecreit.com.</a> 
Click <a href="https://www.sgx.com/securities/equities/T82U">here </a>for the company's StockFacts page. 
For the quarter ended 30 September 2021 business update, click <a href="https://links.sgx.com/1.0.0/corporate-announcements/F8FA1JTWKSLKVMD9/687727_Suntec%20REIT%20-%203Q2021%20Press%20Release.pdf">here</a>. 
 

About kopi-C: the Company brew

Text: Jennifer Tan-Stanisic Photo: Company file kopi-C is a regular column on the SGX Research website that features C-level executives of leading companies listed on Singapore Exchange. These interviews are profiles of senior management aimed at helping investors better understand the individuals who run these corporations. 
For previous editions of kopi-C: the Company brew, please click <a href="https://www.sgx.com/research-education/market-dialogues">here</a>.   
For more information, or if you would like your senior executives to be featured on SGX Market Dialogues, please send suggestions to <a href="https://www.sgx.com/jennifer.t@sgx.com">jennifer.t@sgx.com</a>.
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    Suntec REIT - CEO


With more than three decades of financial and real estate management experience under his belt, Chong Kee Hiong increasingly values the objectivity, flexibility and insight that comes with keeping an open mind.  
These characteristics in turn boost creativity, critical thinking, and lay the foundation for lifelong learning, said the Chief Executive Oﬃcer of the manager of SGX-listed Suntec Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT).  
“It’s important to have an open mind when faced with uncertainty and challenges; never rush into decisions,” he pointed out. “Often, if we know the issues, we’re likely to be able to find solutions - these issues are then within our control.”  
"We should focus on building our knowledge base, and the capacity to adapt and diversify, to ensure there are more “controllable” than “uncontrollable” events. This would help us to sleep better at night.”  
Open minds can also open a multitude of doors. “We must always be ready to take on new opportunities and challenges when they arise,” Chong added.   
“To do so, we have to adopt a mindset that actively and continuously looks for learning opportunities, so as to equip ourselves with diversified skillsets over time.”  
Chong, who is an elected Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, was appointed CEO of the REIT manager, ARA Trust Management (Suntec) Ltd, in January 2019.  
Prior to joining the REIT Manager, Chong was CEO of OUE Hospitality REIT Management Pte Ltd from 2013 to 2018. He helmed The Ascott Ltd from 2012 to 2013, and Ascott Residence Trust Management Ltd from 2005 to 2012. Prior to that, he was Raffles Holdings Ltd’s Chief Financial Officer, and began his career in audit with KPMG Peat Marwick in 1990.  
Chong holds a Bachelor of Accountancy degree from National University of Singapore. He has also completed Harvard Business School's Advanced Management Program, and is a member of the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants.  
Looking back on his 30-year career journey, highlights include developing skillsets and nurturing talent. “The greatest satisfaction is being able to learn and mature on the job. It’s also heartening to see fellow colleagues growing in their roles, and to be able to play a part in their work and learning journeys,” Chong added.  
Listed in December 2004, Suntec REIT aims to invest in income-producing real estate primarily used for office and/or retail purposes. The REIT is managed by ARA Trust Management (Suntec) Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of ARA Asset Management Ltd, which is Asia Pacific’s largest real assets manager with US$95 billion in gross assets under management (AUM).  
Suntec REIT holds properties in Suntec City, Singapore’s largest integrated commercial development (including one of Singapore’s largest shopping malls), a 66.3% interest in Suntec Singapore Convention &amp; Exhibition Centre, a one-third interest in One Raffles Quay, as well as a one-third interest in Marina Bay Financial Centre Towers 1 and 2 and the Marina Bay Link Mall.   
Down under in Australia, it owns the following commercial buildings: a 100% interest in 177 Pacific Highway, Sydney, 100% of 21 Harris Street, Pyrmont, Sydney, 50% of Southgate Complex, Melbourne, 50% of Olderfleet 477 Collins Street, Melbourne, and 100% of 55 Currie Street, Adelaide.   Opportunities in Crisis  
To boost income stability and enhance geographical diversification, the REIT made its first foray in London, the UK, with the acquisition of a 50% stake in Nova Properties in December 2020. It also acquired The Minster Building, its second property in London, in June 2021.   
These assets were a strategic fit with Suntec REIT’s existing portfolio of high-quality commercial assets in Singapore and Australia. Lower yielding commercial assets were divested to partially fund these acquisitions, which were higher yielding than the assets divested, and accretive in both Distribution Per Unit (DPU) and Net Asset Value (NAV).  
“Despite pandemic-induced difficulties, we’ve succeeded in enhancing unitholder value through active portfolio management,” Chong noted. “The phrase “with every crisis, comes opportunity” has never been more apt.”  
Presently, Suntec REIT’s AUM stands at S$11.6 billion across 10 properties in Singapore (71% of AUM), Australia (16% of AUM), and the UK (13% of AUM). The REIT continues to be anchored by the resilient office sector, which contributes more than 85% of its total income.  
“While Suntec REIT remains Singapore-centric, we will further boost income stability by sourcing for good quality, accretive assets. Overseas assets are expected to grow to between 30% to 40% of AUM over the next few years,” he added.  
Apart from unitholders, the REIT is also focused on working with tenants for a mutually beneficial long-term relationship. “In these unprecedented times, the need to share risks and rewards in business relationships is amplified,” Chong noted.  
Suntec REIT has provided a raft of tenant assistance measures, including flexible operating hours, complimentary marketing support, increased seating capacity for food and beverage tenants, and rental rebates for retail tenants, to help mitigate challenges from the pandemic. Some of these measures continue to remain in place.  
Looking ahead, prospects for the REIT’s office portfolio remain bright.  
“While hybrid working arrangements are likely to continue, the physical office will remain relevant as the conduit to bring employees together to build corporate culture,” Chong noted.  
“In addition, aspects of work like teamwork, collaboration, innovation and mentoring are most effective in face-to-face settings. Surveys have also shown that employees want to return to the office three to four days a week, unlike contrasting feedback at the start of the pandemic.”  
The REIT expects its overall Singapore office portfolio to perform well, with revenue growth driven by higher occupancy and cumulative positive rent reversions achieved for the past 13 quarters.  
“Office revenues from Australia and UK assets will remain resilient as they are underpinned by strong occupancies and long weighted average lease expiries,” he added. “In particular, annual rent escalations provide upside to the Australia assets.”  Future-Proofing Assets  
As for the REIT’s retail properties in Singapore, “green shoots of recovery” have appeared, particularly with the re-opening of the economy and high vaccination levels in the population.  
“Despite some border restrictions, and a tightening of safe-distancing measures, tenant sales at Suntec City Mall have continued to recover faster than footfall increases since the fourth quarter of 2020,” Chong said. “We’ve seen tenant sales recovering to 75% of 2019 levels versus footfall, which is at 50% of 2019 levels.”  
In addition, a shift in consumer behaviour has emerged - shoppers now window-shop much less. Instead, they seek novel and experiential concepts and brands.  
“At Suntec City, we’ve been proactively future-proofing our mall to better retain and attract customers,” he said.  
Despite COVID-19 disruptions, 19 new-to-market or new-to-Suntec brands were introduced this year, of which 50% catered to Singaporeans’ desire for new F&amp;B concepts. The REIT Manager has also increased the number of activity-based and experiential concepts to around 35% of the mall’s total leaseable area.   
“This, together with more than 25% of Suntec City dedicated to F&amp;B offerings, will strengthen the mall’s performance, making it more sustainable and allowing it to ride the wave of recovery.”  
Apart from day-to-day operational priorities, Suntec REIT is also focused on its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) goals. “We strongly believe in the importance of integrating sustainability into our strategies, operations and acquisitions,” Chong said.  
“Building certifications such as Greenmark, NABERS, BREEAM, LEEDS will become more important. Whilst the majority of our buildings across Singapore, Australia and London have attained green certification, we continue to work towards enhancing the ratings by improving energy and water consumption efficiencies and reducing use of natural resources.”  
In recognition of its sustainability leadership, Suntec REIT was awarded the GRESB highest accolade of Global Sector Leader for the Office-Listed category, and ranked Number One in Asia (Office). The REIT also retained the highest GRESB 5 Star rating. Established in 2009, GRESB is one of the leading ESG benchmarks for real estate and infrastructure investments globally.  
Meanwhile, for this 55-year-old, time outside the office revolves around serving the community. To recharge, he enjoys walking, running or golfing.  
In terms of advice for his four boys, aged 15 to 23, and staff, he has this to offer: Cultivate the desire and drive to work hard, through which you can then achieve your aspirations, and be in the position to help others.  
“Perseverance, maintaining the principles of being fair and objective, being sincere, and having respect for others - these are all values close to my heart.”   Suntec REIT  
Listed in December 2004, Suntec REIT holds properties in Suntec City, Singapore’s largest  integrated commercial development (including one of Singapore’s largest  shopping malls), a 66.3% interest in Suntec Singapore Convention &amp; Exhibition Centre, a one-third interest in One Raffles Quay, as well as a one-third interest in Marina  Bay Financial Centre Towers 1 and 2 and the Marina Bay Link Mall. Suntec REIT holds a 100% interest in a commercial building located at 177 Pacific Highway, Sydney, a 100% interest in a commercial building located at 21 Harris Street, Pyrmont, Sydney, a 50.0% interest in Southgate Complex, Melbourne, a 50.0% interest in a commercial building located at Olderfleet 477 Collins Street, Melbourne and a 100% interest in a commercial building located at 55 Currie Street, Adelaide, Australia. Suntec REIT also holds a 50.0% interest in Nova Properties and a 100% interest in The Minster Building, both located in London, UK. Suntec REIT is managed by an external manager, ARA Trust  Management  (Suntec) Ltd.   
The company website is: www.suntecreit.com.  
Click here for the company's StockFacts page.  
For the quarter ended 30 September 2021 business update, click here.  
 

About kopi-C: the Company brew

Text: Jennifer Tan-Stanisic Photo: Company file  kopi-C is a regular column on the SGX Research website that features C-level executives of leading companies listed on Singapore Exchange. These interviews are profiles of senior management aimed at helping investors better understand the individuals who run these corporations.  
For previous editions of kopi-C: the Company brew, please click here.    
For more information, or if you would like your senior executives to be featured on SGX Market Dialogues, please send suggestions to jennifer.t@sgx.com.



Suntec REIT: Enhancing Value, Building Resilience

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 <div class='content-caption'>SRE- CEO</div>
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Despite spending nearly three decades of his career in the real estate investment and management industry, Desmond Tang has yet to experience a dull day. 
That’s because the real estate industry has continued to prove its resilience amid disruptive trends. And Tang’s start-up experience - prior to leading Straits Real Estate (SRE), a wholly owned subsidiary of SGX-listed The Straits Trading Company - has come in handy. 
“Real estate is never boring,” said Tang, the Chief Executive Officer of SRE. “Despite its image as a traditional old-fashioned industry - a common parochial view - real estate is difficult to replace, even as economies evolve, and technology changes lives and businesses.” 
“People talk about modernising real estate, but the truth of matter is that it has never stopped adapting itself to new uses, new user requirements, and new occupier habits,” he added. 
“When an old trade like real estate juxtaposes with never-ending changes in space usage, it’s both captivating and invigorating. It’s very much like playing a 40-year-old original-pressed vinyl on a modern sound system, and being surprised by the outcome.” 
The 55-year-old, who holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours degree in Real Estate from the National University of Singapore, and a Master of Applied Finance degree from Macquarie University, has helmed SRE since February 2014. 
At various times prior to joining SRE, he was Managing Director and Co-Head at Alpha Investment Partners, and Managing Director at GrowthPath Capital, which he co-founded.  
“I’ve possibly had more involvement with start-up businesses than most real estate investment professionals,” Tang acknowledged. “Every start-up is an adventure, and every adventure requires a first step, as the Cheshire Cat in Alice of Wonderland says.” 
“But mostly, that first step is error-laden, so the ability to respond, adjust and change course often makes the difference between ultimate success and failure. When you participate in a start-up knowing the odds are at best even, you‘re driven to better your chances, create options and seek control of your own luck. My career experience would have been that much poorer without all of that.” 
Now at SRE, Tang is grateful for having had the opportunity to create and build the company from scratch into what it is today.  
“My previous experience with start-up companies certainly helped. Having been mostly a real estate fund manager prior to this role, it was necessary for me and my colleagues to decide early on how the investment style should be adapted for a publicly listed company like Straits Trading,” he recalled. 
“We also worked on delivering quick, tangible results to garner confidence from the market. We were fortunate to achieve what we planned quite quickly, kept our discipline, and continued to produce the goods over the years.” Growth Driver 
SRE was established as a private equity real estate investment company in 2013. Since then, it has grown to manage a diverse investment portfolio, with over S$2 billion in assets spanning China, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Australia and South Korea. Its portfolio includes logistics, retail, office and business park properties. 
SRE is an important earnings driver and growth engine for Straits Trading. The latter is a conglomerate-investment company with operations and financial interests in resources, property, and hospitality. 
These include majority or strategic stakes in the world’s third-largest tin producer, Malaysia Smelting Corporation, which is dual listed on Bursa Malaysia and SGX; ARA Asset Management and Far East Hospitality Holdings, as well as a diversified property portfolio and real estate investments that are wholly owned by the Group. 
In August 2021, Straits Trading announced it was selling its 19% stake in ARA Asset Management for S$1.14 billion to Hong Kong-listed ESR Cayman. 
For Tang, a key priority is ensuring that SRE remains relevant to its key stakeholders - namely its shareholders and employees - as it navigates the markets and takes advantage of business opportunities.  
“The alignment of interest between stakeholders is not always natural, so you must work on finding the balance that gives you sustainability,” he added. 
“I emphasise “work on” because you cannot leave that to chance. It requires conscious effort to ensure the company remains valid to shareholders and employees as environment and circumstances evolve.” 
In particular, SRE has been anticipating and keeping abreast of new trends following the onset of the pandemic. 
“COVID-19 brought about massive and swift changes in space usage habits that the industry could never have anticipated,” Tang noted. “Lockdowns, work-from-home regimes, exponential growth in online retailing, and safe-distancing requirements all contributed to the disruption.” 
“So we zeroed-in on opportunities that provide short- to mid-term insulation against current challenges, with asset quality to benefit from the eventual market recovery, such as new economy assets and business parks.” 
Looking ahead, SRE will continue to focus on building a portfolio of predominantly income-producing assets with stable cash flows. In the near term, it is looking to acquire business parks and warehouse retail parks in the UK, as well as logistics assets across key geographies.  
It has also ventured into greenfield developments in South Korea and Australia to reap development upside through build-to-suit opportunities, which are geared to fulfil secular, or longer term, demand. 
“We always focus on return maximisation by driving capital efficiency. This is reflected in SRE’s consistent ROE track record of 10% over the last five years,” Tang pointed out, referring to the key industry metric of return on equity. 
"We achieve this through a disciplined approach to capital allocation, risk pricing, asset management and divestment - all of which ensure capital is recycled into higher-returning investments in a systematic and timely manner. As part of our active asset management process, we also implement enhancement initiatives to improve the marketability and operational efficiency of these assets.” Burgeoning Potential 
In addition, the outlook remains bright in SRE’s key markets. South Korea offers enormous potential, driven by its rapidly emerging domestic e-commerce market and a supply shortfall in modern logistics assets, while in Japan, its real estate sector has emerged as one of the most resilient and best-performing property investment markets in the world amidst the pandemic.  
As for China, the quick containment of the pandemic and swift rebound in consumption has instilled confidence in domestic and foreign brands, which is set to spur further investment in the expansion of retail store networks in the country.  
Meanwhile, in Australia, a robust economy, continued expansion in e-commerce and infrastructure spending, coupled with a shortage of high-specification logistics space, continues to underpin growth. 
Despite such rosy prospects, challenges loom, not the least of which is how the pandemic has dramatically altered lives and livelihoods. 
“The current overriding concern, from the perspective of a real estate investment company, is how much of the changes in user habits that occurred during the pandemic are going to be permanent, and how much of that are temporary,” Tang said. 
“What can we do to our portfolio of properties to keep them relevant to users? What’s the impact on asset value if some of the pandemic-induced changes become permanent? Must new buildings be designed for a future pandemic that may or may not happen?” 
SRE is also competing with record amounts of private capital dry powder for deals - many investors are flush with cash and looking to deploy their funds.  
“There’s also a mismatch in price expectations between potential buyers and sellers,” he added. “The low interest-rate environment is a double-edged sword - there’s ample funding for investors, but also stronger holding and bargaining power for owners of distressed assets due to lower borrowing costs.” 
However, unlike conventional private equity funds, SRE is not constrained by a mandate. This gives the company the agility to allocate capital in the most efficient manner, allowing it to punch above its weight despite its relatively small size. 
“We have the advantage of being sector-agnostic, of being able to pursue opportunities that generate attractive risk-adjusted returns,” Tang added. 
“Our investment decisions are not only informed by our market outlook or the competitive landscape, but also the expected return on investment or invested capital, and our country-specific strategy.” 
 

The Straits Trading Company Ltd 
Incorporated in 1887, Straits Trading is a conglomerate-investment company with operations, as well as financial interests, in resources, property, and hospitality. These include majority or strategic stakes in Malaysia Smelting Corporation - the world’s third-largest tin producer that is dual-listed on Bursa Malaysia and SGX - ARA Asset Management, Far East Hospitality Holdings, as well as a diversified property portfolio and real estate investments that are wholly owned by the Group. In August 2021, Straits Trading announced it was selling its 19% stake in ARA Asset Management for S$1.14 billion to Hong Kong-listed ESR Cayman. 
The company website is: <a href="http://www.stc.com.sg">www.stc.com.sg</a> 
Click <a href="https://www.sgx.com/securities/equities/S20">here </a>for the company's StockFacts page. 
For the half year ended 30 June 2021 financial results, click <a href="https://links.sgx.com/1.0.0/corporate-announcements/X9SCUY9SG97QHZ9Z/678773_STC%201H21%20PR_Release%20FINAL%20FOR%20SGX%2013.08.2021.pdf">here</a>. 
 

About kopi-C: the Company brew

Text: Jennifer Tan-Stanisic Photo: Company file kopi-C is a regular column on the SGX Research website that features C-level executives of leading companies listed on Singapore Exchange. These interviews are profiles of senior management aimed at helping investors better understand the individuals who run these corporations. 
For previous editions of kopi-C: the Company brew, please click <a href="https://www.sgx.com/research-education/market-dialogues">here</a>.   
For more information, or if you would like your senior executives to be featured on SGX Market Dialogues, please send suggestions to <a href="https://www.sgx.com/jennifer.t@sgx.com">jennifer.t@sgx.com</a>.
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    SRE- CEO


Despite spending nearly three decades of his career in the real estate investment and management industry, Desmond Tang has yet to experience a dull day.  
That’s because the real estate industry has continued to prove its resilience amid disruptive trends. And Tang’s start-up experience - prior to leading Straits Real Estate (SRE), a wholly owned subsidiary of SGX-listed The Straits Trading Company - has come in handy.  
“Real estate is never boring,” said Tang, the Chief Executive Officer of SRE. “Despite its image as a traditional old-fashioned industry - a common parochial view - real estate is difficult to replace, even as economies evolve, and technology changes lives and businesses.”  
“People talk about modernising real estate, but the truth of matter is that it has never stopped adapting itself to new uses, new user requirements, and new occupier habits,” he added.  
“When an old trade like real estate juxtaposes with never-ending changes in space usage, it’s both captivating and invigorating. It’s very much like playing a 40-year-old original-pressed vinyl on a modern sound system, and being surprised by the outcome.”  
The 55-year-old, who holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours degree in Real Estate from the National University of Singapore, and a Master of Applied Finance degree from Macquarie University, has helmed SRE since February 2014.  
At various times prior to joining SRE, he was Managing Director and Co-Head at Alpha Investment Partners, and Managing Director at GrowthPath Capital, which he co-founded.   
“I’ve possibly had more involvement with start-up businesses than most real estate investment professionals,” Tang acknowledged. “Every start-up is an adventure, and every adventure requires a first step, as the Cheshire Cat in Alice of Wonderland says.”  
“But mostly, that first step is error-laden, so the ability to respond, adjust and change course often makes the difference between ultimate success and failure. When you participate in a start-up knowing the odds are at best even, you‘re driven to better your chances, create options and seek control of your own luck. My career experience would have been that much poorer without all of that.”  
Now at SRE, Tang is grateful for having had the opportunity to create and build the company from scratch into what it is today.   
“My previous experience with start-up companies certainly helped. Having been mostly a real estate fund manager prior to this role, it was necessary for me and my colleagues to decide early on how the investment style should be adapted for a publicly listed company like Straits Trading,” he recalled.  
“We also worked on delivering quick, tangible results to garner confidence from the market. We were fortunate to achieve what we planned quite quickly, kept our discipline, and continued to produce the goods over the years.”  Growth Driver  
SRE was established as a private equity real estate investment company in 2013. Since then, it has grown to manage a diverse investment portfolio, with over S$2 billion in assets spanning China, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Australia and South Korea. Its portfolio includes logistics, retail, office and business park properties.  
SRE is an important earnings driver and growth engine for Straits Trading. The latter is a conglomerate-investment company with operations and financial interests in resources, property, and hospitality.  
These include majority or strategic stakes in the world’s third-largest tin producer, Malaysia Smelting Corporation, which is dual listed on Bursa Malaysia and SGX; ARA Asset Management and Far East Hospitality Holdings, as well as a diversified property portfolio and real estate investments that are wholly owned by the Group.  
In August 2021, Straits Trading announced it was selling its 19% stake in ARA Asset Management for S$1.14 billion to Hong Kong-listed ESR Cayman.  
For Tang, a key priority is ensuring that SRE remains relevant to its key stakeholders - namely its shareholders and employees - as it navigates the markets and takes advantage of business opportunities.   
“The alignment of interest between stakeholders is not always natural, so you must work on finding the balance that gives you sustainability,” he added.  
“I emphasise “work on” because you cannot leave that to chance. It requires conscious effort to ensure the company remains valid to shareholders and employees as environment and circumstances evolve.”  
In particular, SRE has been anticipating and keeping abreast of new trends following the onset of the pandemic.  
“COVID-19 brought about massive and swift changes in space usage habits that the industry could never have anticipated,” Tang noted. “Lockdowns, work-from-home regimes, exponential growth in online retailing, and safe-distancing requirements all contributed to the disruption.”  
“So we zeroed-in on opportunities that provide short- to mid-term insulation against current challenges, with asset quality to benefit from the eventual market recovery, such as new economy assets and business parks.”  
Looking ahead, SRE will continue to focus on building a portfolio of predominantly income-producing assets with stable cash flows. In the near term, it is looking to acquire business parks and warehouse retail parks in the UK, as well as logistics assets across key geographies.   
It has also ventured into greenfield developments in South Korea and Australia to reap development upside through build-to-suit opportunities, which are geared to fulfil secular, or longer term, demand.  
“We always focus on return maximisation by driving capital efficiency. This is reflected in SRE’s consistent ROE track record of 10% over the last five years,” Tang pointed out, referring to the key industry metric of return on equity.  
"We achieve this through a disciplined approach to capital allocation, risk pricing, asset management and divestment - all of which ensure capital is recycled into higher-returning investments in a systematic and timely manner. As part of our active asset management process, we also implement enhancement initiatives to improve the marketability and operational efficiency of these assets.”  Burgeoning Potential  
In addition, the outlook remains bright in SRE’s key markets. South Korea offers enormous potential, driven by its rapidly emerging domestic e-commerce market and a supply shortfall in modern logistics assets, while in Japan, its real estate sector has emerged as one of the most resilient and best-performing property investment markets in the world amidst the pandemic.   
As for China, the quick containment of the pandemic and swift rebound in consumption has instilled confidence in domestic and foreign brands, which is set to spur further investment in the expansion of retail store networks in the country.   
Meanwhile, in Australia, a robust economy, continued expansion in e-commerce and infrastructure spending, coupled with a shortage of high-specification logistics space, continues to underpin growth.  
Despite such rosy prospects, challenges loom, not the least of which is how the pandemic has dramatically altered lives and livelihoods.  
“The current overriding concern, from the perspective of a real estate investment company, is how much of the changes in user habits that occurred during the pandemic are going to be permanent, and how much of that are temporary,” Tang said.  
“What can we do to our portfolio of properties to keep them relevant to users? What’s the impact on asset value if some of the pandemic-induced changes become permanent? Must new buildings be designed for a future pandemic that may or may not happen?”  
SRE is also competing with record amounts of private capital dry powder for deals - many investors are flush with cash and looking to deploy their funds.   
“There’s also a mismatch in price expectations between potential buyers and sellers,” he added. “The low interest-rate environment is a double-edged sword - there’s ample funding for investors, but also stronger holding and bargaining power for owners of distressed assets due to lower borrowing costs.”  
However, unlike conventional private equity funds, SRE is not constrained by a mandate. This gives the company the agility to allocate capital in the most efficient manner, allowing it to punch above its weight despite its relatively small size.  
“We have the advantage of being sector-agnostic, of being able to pursue opportunities that generate attractive risk-adjusted returns,” Tang added.  
“Our investment decisions are not only informed by our market outlook or the competitive landscape, but also the expected return on investment or invested capital, and our country-specific strategy.” 
 

The Straits Trading Company Ltd  
Incorporated in 1887, Straits Trading is a conglomerate-investment company with operations, as well as financial interests, in resources, property, and hospitality. These include majority or strategic stakes in Malaysia Smelting Corporation - the world’s third-largest tin producer that is dual-listed on Bursa Malaysia and SGX - ARA Asset Management, Far East Hospitality Holdings, as well as a diversified property portfolio and real estate investments that are wholly owned by the Group. In August 2021, Straits Trading announced it was selling its 19% stake in ARA Asset Management for S$1.14 billion to Hong Kong-listed ESR Cayman.  
The company website is: www.stc.com.sg  
Click here for the company's StockFacts page.  
For the half year ended 30 June 2021 financial results, click here.  
 

About kopi-C: the Company brew

Text: Jennifer Tan-Stanisic Photo: Company file  kopi-C is a regular column on the SGX Research website that features C-level executives of leading companies listed on Singapore Exchange. These interviews are profiles of senior management aimed at helping investors better understand the individuals who run these corporations.  
For previous editions of kopi-C: the Company brew, please click here.    
For more information, or if you would like your senior executives to be featured on SGX Market Dialogues, please send suggestions to jennifer.t@sgx.com.



Straits Trading Revs Up Real Estate Growth Engine

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Why would you stay mediocre when you can be extraordinary?

This is the motto that spurs real estate veteran Karen Lee to pursue excellence and reach for the stars.

“A former boss gave me this advice – in business, don’t be mediocre,” recalled Lee, the CEO of the manager of SGX-listed ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust. “The mediocre will accept the market, or the status quo, as given, but the great will do better than the market.”

Another wise observation from her 82-year-old father still resonates with her: “Anything is possible if you set your mind to it – if you never try, you will never know.”

For Lee, these exhortations remain touchstones till today. “This is what drives me, and what I share with my team to inspire them to achieve their targets,” she added.

Lee has more than two decades of experience in the real estate industry, including industrial real estate development, asset and investment management, business development, leasing, marketing and property management.

She was appointed the Chief Executive Officer of ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust Management Ltd, the manager of ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust, in August this year. Before this appointment, she was the Head of Asset and Investment Management for LOGOS’s Southeast Asian business. Prior to joining LOGOS, between 2008 and 2018, Lee held a senior management role in Ascendas REIT.

Her career journey in real estate began in 1999 with Jurong Town Corporation (JTC), Singapore’s largest industrial landlord, after she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Economics with Honours, and Master of Science in Real Estate, from the National University of Singapore.

“It was those years in JTC that helped me understand the industry landscape, and solidified my real estate calling,” she said.

“Many people think real estate is all about brick-and-mortar structures, but it’s actually much more than that – it extends beyond the physical into the unseen, and includes the businesses of tenants, which span different industries with all their colour, as well as relationships with tenants, who are our customers.”

Leveraging Strengths

Listed on SGX Mainboard since 2010, ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust (ALOG), previously known as Cache Logistics Trust, is a real estate investment trust that invests in income-producing real estate used for logistics purposes and real estate-related assets in the Asia Pacific. Its portfolio comprises 27 high-quality logistics warehouse properties located in established logistics clusters across Singapore and Australia.

In March 2020, ARA Asset Management, a leading Asia-Pacific real assets fund manager, completed its acquisition of a majority stake in LOGOS, a logistics real estate specialist across Asia Pacific. Post-acquisition, LOGOS operates as ARA’s exclusive logistics real estate platform and ALOG’s Sponsor. In April 2020, Cache Logistics Trust was rebranded as ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust.

LOGOS has over 6.7 million square metres of property owned and under development, and a completed value of S$14 billion across 24 ventures. As a vertically integrated business, LOGOS manages every aspect of logistics real estate, from sourcing land or facilities, to undertaking development and asset management, on behalf of some of the world’s leading global real estate investors.

“ALOG can now leverage the combined complementary strengths of ARA and LOGOS, realising key benefits such as an enlarged network in key and new high-growth markets, enhanced complementary capabilities and resources, as well as increased attractiveness to a larger pool of institutional investors,” Lee noted.

In October, underscoring the beneficial relationship between ALOG and its Sponsor, the trust unveiled its maiden acquisition under LOGOS’s sponsorship.

The proposed acquisition, which has a total purchase price of more than S$400 million, comprises five logistics properties located in Brisbane, and two fund investments that own a combined portfolio of five logistics assets in New South Wales and Victoria.

Following these acquisitions and fund investments, ALOG's deposited property value will increase by 28.2% to S$1.7 billion on a pro forma basis as at 30 June 2020, from about S$1.3 billion. The portfolio value attributable to Australia is also expected to rise to 47.6% from 32.5%.

“This is a transformational acquisition for ALOG as it expands our footprint across key economic hubs in the East Coast of Australia, and paves the way for our next chapter of growth under LOGOS’s sponsorship,” Lee noted.

And asset acquisitions will continue to drive the trust’s expansion over the next few years, she added.

“ALOG has an Asia-Pacific mandate – we will continue to leverage on our Sponsor’s robust pipeline – totalling S$14 billion – across key markets in Asia Pacific, as well as its expertise, and adopt a disciplined, proactive approach when sourcing for opportunities to grow the trust.”

Resilient Fundamentals

ALOG’s balance sheet also remains resilient. As at 30 September 2020, the trust had a well-balanced debt maturity profile, with aggregate leverage ratio of 40.5%, an interest coverage ratio of 3.7 times, and a weighted average debt maturity of 3.3 years. There are no refinancing requirements until December 2021.

“We continue to proactively manage our portfolio and capital structure to safeguard the long-term sustainability of our unitholders’ interests,” Lee added.

The trust also has deep, established tenant relationships that support its strong retention rate – ALOG’s portfolio occupancy rate remains high at 97%, despite prevailing soft market conditions, and its weighted average lease expiry (WALE) by net lettable area stands at 2.6 years.

Lee is focused on further improving the trust’s WALE, a closely watched industry metric. “Our priority is to reduce ALOG’s trading yield or equity cost, so we can acquire assets at more accretive levels,” she said.

“We’re working hard to boost the specs of our real estate assets – such as customising the specs to meet the needs of our tenants, for example, converting ambient warehouse to air-conditioned ones. This enables us to add value, which spurs tenants to extend their leases and become more sticky.”

The logistics industry’s robust fundamentals also add to ALOG’s bright prospects. The trust’s diversified and high-quality tenant base spans various industry and trade sectors, underpinning the trust’s cashflows and stable operational performance.

“We’re continuing to see stable leasing appetite from existing and prospective tenants for warehouse and prime logistics space across our portfolio, particularly from large-scale end-users, following a flight to quality and the shift to better locations,” Lee said. “This has been underpinned by higher demand from e-commerce, food logistics and third-party logistics players.”

Key growth drivers for the sector include the rise of online transactions and shifts in supply chain management. “We observed that businesses are looking to de-risk, either by diversifying their sources of raw materials or by stockpiling, following the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns. These trends can be seen across Australia and Singapore,” she added.

At the end of the day, this 47-year-old mother of two derives immense satisfaction from the knowledge that she is contributing to the improvement and growth of ALOG’s business.

“For the management of any REIT, there’s always that element of accountability and responsibility, to ensure we deliver on our promises, not only to our unitholders, but also to our tenants,” she added.

Building cohesion and grooming talent in her team are also key focus areas. “I’m likewise accountable to my team mates, and we’re on this transformational journey, not as individuals, but together as a team,” she said with a smile.

This is why trust, integrity and respect are among the key principles that she upholds, and tries to instill in her daughter, 15, and son, 11.

“These are core values in life – the ones that form the basis of your code of ethics, and the foundation of all your relationships – whether professional or personal.” 
 

ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust

Listed on Singapore Exchange on 12 April 2010, ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust (ALOG) is a real estate investment trust that invests in quality income-producing industrial real estate used for logistics purposes, as well as real estate-related assets in the Asia Pacific. As at 30 September 2020, ALOG’s portfolio comprises 27 high-quality logistics warehouse properties strategically located in established logistics clusters in Singapore and Australia. The portfolio has a total gross floor area of approximately 9.0 million square feet valued at approximately S$1.26 billion. 
ALOG is managed by ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust Management Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of LOGOS. ARA Asset Management Ltd is a majority shareholder of LOGOS, which operates as ARA’s global logistics real estate platform. LOGOS is a leading logistics property group in Asia Pacific, with over 6.7 million sqm of property owned and under development, and a completed value of S$14 billion across 24 ventures.

The company website is: www.aralogos-reit.com. 
Click <a href="https://www.sgx.com/securities/equities/K2LU">here </a>for the company's StockFacts page. 
For the three months ended 30 September 2020 results, click <a href="https://links.sgx.com/1.0.0/corporate-announcements/ONPAM0T5WM09J5WP/636402_ALOG%20-%203Q%20FY20%20Business%20Updates%20-%20Press%20Release.PDF">here</a>. 
 

About kopi-C: the Company brew

Text: Jennifer Tan-Stanisic Photo: Company file kopi-C is a regular column on the SGX Research website that features C-level executives of leading companies listed on Singapore Exchange. These interviews are profiles of senior management aimed at helping investors better understand the individuals who run these corporations. 
For previous editions of kopi-C: the Company brew, please click <a href="https://www.sgx.com/research-education/market-dialogues">here</a>.   
For more information, or if you would like your senior executives to be featured on SGX Market Dialogues, please send suggestions to <a href="///C:/Users/tanje/Desktop/Working%20Files/kopi-C/jennifer.t@sgx.com">jennifer.t@sgx.com</a>.
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    ARA-LOGOS-CEO


Why would you stay mediocre when you can be extraordinary?

This is the motto that spurs real estate veteran Karen Lee to pursue excellence and reach for the stars.

“A former boss gave me this advice – in business, don’t be mediocre,” recalled Lee, the CEO of the manager of SGX-listed ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust. “The mediocre will accept the market, or the status quo, as given, but the great will do better than the market.”

Another wise observation from her 82-year-old father still resonates with her: “Anything is possible if you set your mind to it – if you never try, you will never know.”

For Lee, these exhortations remain touchstones till today. “This is what drives me, and what I share with my team to inspire them to achieve their targets,” she added.

Lee has more than two decades of experience in the real estate industry, including industrial real estate development, asset and investment management, business development, leasing, marketing and property management.

She was appointed the Chief Executive Officer of ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust Management Ltd, the manager of ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust, in August this year. Before this appointment, she was the Head of Asset and Investment Management for LOGOS’s Southeast Asian business. Prior to joining LOGOS, between 2008 and 2018, Lee held a senior management role in Ascendas REIT.

Her career journey in real estate began in 1999 with Jurong Town Corporation (JTC), Singapore’s largest industrial landlord, after she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Economics with Honours, and Master of Science in Real Estate, from the National University of Singapore.

“It was those years in JTC that helped me understand the industry landscape, and solidified my real estate calling,” she said.

“Many people think real estate is all about brick-and-mortar structures, but it’s actually much more than that – it extends beyond the physical into the unseen, and includes the businesses of tenants, which span different industries with all their colour, as well as relationships with tenants, who are our customers.”

Leveraging Strengths

Listed on SGX Mainboard since 2010, ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust (ALOG), previously known as Cache Logistics Trust, is a real estate investment trust that invests in income-producing real estate used for logistics purposes and real estate-related assets in the Asia Pacific. Its portfolio comprises 27 high-quality logistics warehouse properties located in established logistics clusters across Singapore and Australia.

In March 2020, ARA Asset Management, a leading Asia-Pacific real assets fund manager, completed its acquisition of a majority stake in LOGOS, a logistics real estate specialist across Asia Pacific. Post-acquisition, LOGOS operates as ARA’s exclusive logistics real estate platform and ALOG’s Sponsor. In April 2020, Cache Logistics Trust was rebranded as ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust.

LOGOS has over 6.7 million square metres of property owned and under development, and a completed value of S$14 billion across 24 ventures. As a vertically integrated business, LOGOS manages every aspect of logistics real estate, from sourcing land or facilities, to undertaking development and asset management, on behalf of some of the world’s leading global real estate investors.

“ALOG can now leverage the combined complementary strengths of ARA and LOGOS, realising key benefits such as an enlarged network in key and new high-growth markets, enhanced complementary capabilities and resources, as well as increased attractiveness to a larger pool of institutional investors,” Lee noted.

In October, underscoring the beneficial relationship between ALOG and its Sponsor, the trust unveiled its maiden acquisition under LOGOS’s sponsorship.

The proposed acquisition, which has a total purchase price of more than S$400 million, comprises five logistics properties located in Brisbane, and two fund investments that own a combined portfolio of five logistics assets in New South Wales and Victoria.

Following these acquisitions and fund investments, ALOG's deposited property value will increase by 28.2% to S$1.7 billion on a pro forma basis as at 30 June 2020, from about S$1.3 billion. The portfolio value attributable to Australia is also expected to rise to 47.6% from 32.5%.

“This is a transformational acquisition for ALOG as it expands our footprint across key economic hubs in the East Coast of Australia, and paves the way for our next chapter of growth under LOGOS’s sponsorship,” Lee noted.

And asset acquisitions will continue to drive the trust’s expansion over the next few years, she added.

“ALOG has an Asia-Pacific mandate – we will continue to leverage on our Sponsor’s robust pipeline – totalling S$14 billion – across key markets in Asia Pacific, as well as its expertise, and adopt a disciplined, proactive approach when sourcing for opportunities to grow the trust.”

Resilient Fundamentals

ALOG’s balance sheet also remains resilient. As at 30 September 2020, the trust had a well-balanced debt maturity profile, with aggregate leverage ratio of 40.5%, an interest coverage ratio of 3.7 times, and a weighted average debt maturity of 3.3 years. There are no refinancing requirements until December 2021.

“We continue to proactively manage our portfolio and capital structure to safeguard the long-term sustainability of our unitholders’ interests,” Lee added.

The trust also has deep, established tenant relationships that support its strong retention rate – ALOG’s portfolio occupancy rate remains high at 97%, despite prevailing soft market conditions, and its weighted average lease expiry (WALE) by net lettable area stands at 2.6 years.

Lee is focused on further improving the trust’s WALE, a closely watched industry metric. “Our priority is to reduce ALOG’s trading yield or equity cost, so we can acquire assets at more accretive levels,” she said.

“We’re working hard to boost the specs of our real estate assets – such as customising the specs to meet the needs of our tenants, for example, converting ambient warehouse to air-conditioned ones. This enables us to add value, which spurs tenants to extend their leases and become more sticky.”

The logistics industry’s robust fundamentals also add to ALOG’s bright prospects. The trust’s diversified and high-quality tenant base spans various industry and trade sectors, underpinning the trust’s cashflows and stable operational performance.

“We’re continuing to see stable leasing appetite from existing and prospective tenants for warehouse and prime logistics space across our portfolio, particularly from large-scale end-users, following a flight to quality and the shift to better locations,” Lee said. “This has been underpinned by higher demand from e-commerce, food logistics and third-party logistics players.”

Key growth drivers for the sector include the rise of online transactions and shifts in supply chain management. “We observed that businesses are looking to de-risk, either by diversifying their sources of raw materials or by stockpiling, following the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns. These trends can be seen across Australia and Singapore,” she added.

At the end of the day, this 47-year-old mother of two derives immense satisfaction from the knowledge that she is contributing to the improvement and growth of ALOG’s business.

“For the management of any REIT, there’s always that element of accountability and responsibility, to ensure we deliver on our promises, not only to our unitholders, but also to our tenants,” she added.

Building cohesion and grooming talent in her team are also key focus areas. “I’m likewise accountable to my team mates, and we’re on this transformational journey, not as individuals, but together as a team,” she said with a smile.

This is why trust, integrity and respect are among the key principles that she upholds, and tries to instill in her daughter, 15, and son, 11.

“These are core values in life – the ones that form the basis of your code of ethics, and the foundation of all your relationships – whether professional or personal.” 
 

ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust

Listed on Singapore Exchange on 12 April 2010, ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust (ALOG) is a real estate investment trust that invests in quality income-producing industrial real estate used for logistics purposes, as well as real estate-related assets in the Asia Pacific. As at 30 September 2020, ALOG’s portfolio comprises 27 high-quality logistics warehouse properties strategically located in established logistics clusters in Singapore and Australia. The portfolio has a total gross floor area of approximately 9.0 million square feet valued at approximately S$1.26 billion.  
ALOG is managed by ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust Management Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of LOGOS. ARA Asset Management Ltd is a majority shareholder of LOGOS, which operates as ARA’s global logistics real estate platform. LOGOS is a leading logistics property group in Asia Pacific, with over 6.7 million sqm of property owned and under development, and a completed value of S$14 billion across 24 ventures.

The company website is: www.aralogos-reit.com.  
Click here for the company's StockFacts page.  
For the three months ended 30 September 2020 results, click here. 
 

About kopi-C: the Company brew

Text: Jennifer Tan-Stanisic Photo: Company file  kopi-C is a regular column on the SGX Research website that features C-level executives of leading companies listed on Singapore Exchange. These interviews are profiles of senior management aimed at helping investors better understand the individuals who run these corporations.  
For previous editions of kopi-C: the Company brew, please click here.    
For more information, or if you would like your senior executives to be featured on SGX Market Dialogues, please send suggestions to jennifer.t@sgx.com.



ARA LOGOS Logistics Trust Embarks on New Growth Chapter

Incorporated in 1887, The Straits Trading Company Limited (Straits Trading) holds stakes in real estate, hospitality, resources and investments across the Asia Pacific region. It owns a 89.5% stake in Straits Real Estate, 21.0% stake in fund manager ARA Asset Management, 30% interest in international hospitality owner and operator Far East Hospitality Holdings, and a 54.8%-owned subsidiary in tin miner and smelter Malaysia Smelting Corporation Berhad.

Incorporated in 1887, The Straits Trading Company Limited (Straits Trading) holds stakes in real estate, hospitality, resources and investments across the Asia Pacific region. It owns a 89.5% stake in Straits Real Estate, 21.0% stake in fund manager ARA Asset Management, 30% interest in international hospitality owner and operator Far East Hospitality Holdings, and a 54.8%-owned subsidiary in tin miner and smelter Malaysia Smelting Corporation Berhad.

10 in 10 –The Straits Trading Company (STRTR SP) - Growth Through Diversification

Singapore

ARA Asset Management Limited is a real estate fund management company that focuses on the management of public-listed real estate investment trusts, REITs. The Company manages REITs, private real estate funds, specialist equity funds and offers corporate finance advisory services.

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