78% NRIs in ANAROCK survey say real estate tops investment options in India

Home in homeland 

As per ANAROCK's survey, Consumer Sentiment Outlook, real estate continues to be the favourite Investment option in India for most non-resident Indians (NRIs). The survey found that 78 per cent respondents preferred real estate over other asset classes — stocks, FDs, mutual funds — largely because of the charm of owning a property back in their country of origin. Recent trends suggest that there has been a 15-20 per cent surge in serious NRI-specific inquiries for properties in India over the last one year. While the fall in the Indian rupee is believed to have contributed in renewing the focus in recent times, there is more to it. For instance, for an increasing number of NRIs, returning home may no longer be just a choice but a compulsion. Donald Trump’s increasingly hard-line work visa and immigration policies are causing many NRIs who had long-term plans for the Land of Opportunity to have to consider returning to India. Prashant Thakur, head of research, ANAROCK Property Consultants, says job prospects and family presence in the target country are  also responsible for their interest in property here. 

 

Powering China

Capgemini’s annual study World Energy Markets Observatory (WEMO) for 2018 reveals China’s role as a leading worldwide player in technology, equipment and utilities ownership. The study also highlights that global economic growth has increased energy demand and leaves long-term climate change targets in question. To the surprise of many, demand has remained high in a year that saw both rising European carbon prices and falling renewable energy costs. China’s high demand also means more emission. Energy requirements are constantly growing in China, which in 2017 increased its imports of Liquid Natural Gas by 46 per cent, making it responsible for 30 per cent of the growth in global demand. Pollution levels remain a concern and China is the world’s biggest emitter of greenhouse gases. The country has a long-term policy of developing equipment for domestic usage first before selling it internationally. China also has a dominant share in the worldwide production of highly sought-after rare metals and rare earth elements needed for energy transition.