A stock corporation that primarily invests in income generating real estate assets. It is an investment instrument that provides returns to its investors (1) in the form of dividends, derived from rental income of the underlying real estate assets and other income of the properties they buy, manage, and operate and (2) potentially thru capital appreciation (if the share price of the REIT rises over a period of time).

a. Market or Price Risk is the possibility for an investor to experience losses due to changes in market prices of securities.

b. Liquidity Risk is the possibility of losses due to inability to sell or convert the bond or equity investments into cash immediately, or in instances where conversion to cash is posssible but at a loss.

Economy

Current and projected GDP growth expectations tend to drive decisions whether to rent more space.

Industries or Segments

Look at the demand from the industries or segments that a REIT services. Strong demand leads to higher rent prices.

Clients and Tenants

Check if clients and tenants of a REIT are of high quality and are financially stable to meet rental commitments and potentially renew leases.

Contract

Longer contracts lend a higher level of predictability and stability.

Location

Check if the properties are located in areas that are expected to appreciate.

Pipeline

Check the sponsor of the REIT. Does the sponsor have deep and extensive pipeline of property assets that can be injected into the REIT? A stronger pipeline gives investors assurance that the REIT can achieve growth.

Contact your Relationship Manager or visit the nearest BPI branch to learn more about REITs.