PE investments in realty sector reached Rs 15,410 cr in 2014

Private equity (PE) investments in the real estate sector have increased by over two-fold to Rs 15,410 crore in 2014, the highest since 2008, signalling a renewed interest by domestic and global investors, according to a report.

According to a report by real estate consultancy firm Cushman & Wakefield, the PE investments in 2013 in the real estate sector stood at Rs 7,360 crore. Commercial office assets contributed 53% while housing segment had a share of 39% to the total PE investment in 2014.

Delhi-NCR witnessed the highest PE investment of Rs 5,910 crore during 2014, followed by Mumbai at Rs 4,680 crore.

"Total inflows in the sector for 2014 were Rs 15,410 crore ($2.5 billion). This was more than double the investment levels recorded in 2013 (Rs 7,360 crore ($1.2 billion).

"This is also the highest level of investment since 2008, indicating renewed interests among domestic and foreign investors for the Indian real estate sector," C&W said in a report on PE investments in real estate.

During 2014, there was high level of interest in leased office assets with a number of foreign investors acquiring IT parks and IT-SEZs. Investment activity in under-construction projects in the residential segment also improved significantly.