The latest MAS rules for REITs is simple and helps to ease some of the pressure on leverage. Summary Basically, MAS has simplified the limits and can be understood simply as: (i) REIT leverage should not exceed 50%; (ii) Interest Coverage Ratio, ICR, (including distribution from hybrid securities) should not be lower than 1.5 times, a decrease from the previous 2.5 times. My Thoughts These changes help investors understand the regime much better because previously there was a 45% leverage limit and a 50% leverage limit with an "if" condition. Everything is now simplified and even for what is defined under the ICR, it is clear. No more wriggling their way out (for the Mapletree REITs). Higher Leverage Limit It is definite good news for all REITs since their regulated leverage limit has been raised and it is now cap at 50%. Suntec REIT is a definite beneficiary as they were hovering near the 45% limit and had a very low interest coverage...