Several important factors determine if a REIT can grow in the long-term.
These attributes are what separates the stronger REITs from their weaker counterparts.
One of these is the sub-sector that the REITs properties are in.
For instance, the pandemic has badly impacted the hospitality sector, resulting in a poor cash flow outlook for many of the hospitality REITs.
In contrast, resilient sub-sectors including industrial, essential retail and healthcare were less affected.
Buying a REIT with properties in these sectors ensures that its rental income remains protected during crises.
Another positive factor is low gearing levels.
The Monetary Authority of Singapore had raised the gearing limit for REITs from 45% to 50% last year as one of the measures to deal with the pandemic.
This move provides more leeway for REITs to borrow to acquire and grow their asset base.
With global interest rates at multi-year lows, opportunistic REITs can pounce on quality...