When it comes to the REIT sector, it’s important to select REITs with strong attributes. The current environment of higher interest rates and elevated inflation is putting pressure on the sector. Hence, income investors should look for REITs with strong sponsors and reasonable gearing levels that can tide them through these challenges. Here are five Singapore REITs with the above characteristics that you can consider for your buy watchlist.

Mapletree Industrial Trust (SGX: ME8U)

Mapletree Industrial Trust, or MIT, is an industrial REIT with a portfolio of 160 properties spread across Singapore (83), the US (56) and Japan (1). The total assets under management (AUM) stood at S$9 billion as of 30 June 2024. MIT is supported by a strong sponsor in Mapletree Investments Pte Ltd, which owns and manages S$77.5 billion of properties as of 31 March 2024. The REIT reported a commendable set of earnings for the first quarter of fiscal 2025 (1Q FY2025) ending 30 June 2024....