Ping An Securities·2025-10-16 07:50Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Outperform" rating for the real estate industry [1]. Core Insights - The industry is transitioning into a stock era, with a focus on the renovation and enhancement of existing commercial properties, particularly in lower-tier markets where supply-demand dynamics are more favorable [6][60]. - The report highlights the successful case studies of CapitaLand and China Overseas Commercial REITs, which exemplify the full-cycle capital loop of acquisition, renovation, enhancement, and exit [3][14]. - The renovation of mature and acquired projects can significantly enhance their value, as demonstrated by the operational upgrades and tenant adjustments made by China Overseas since acquiring Nanhai Yifeng City [17][24]. - The report emphasizes the stability of rental income growth in lower-tier cities compared to first and second-tier cities, where competition is intensifying [3][60]. Summary by Sections Industry Transition - The new construction and completion of commercial properties have peaked, with the number of new shopping centers opening in 2024 expected to be the lowest in nearly a decade, indicating a shift from quantity growth to quality improvement [13][10]. - The proportion of reopened projects after renovation is increasing, with 21.79% of new openings in 2024 being renovated stock [13][9]. Case Studies - China Overseas Commercial REIT has shown a 22.82% compound annual growth rate in sales from 2020 to 2024, reflecting effective tenant adjustments and operational upgrades [17][24]. - CapitaLand's project in Changsha has maintained high operational efficiency, with a rental income growth of 13% post-renovation [40][44]. Market Dynamics - The report notes that lower-tier markets have a more favorable supply-demand balance, with less competition and stronger customer loyalty, leading to more stable operational expectations [3][60]. - The valuation of shopping centers in lower-tier cities is comparable to some second-tier cities, with examples like the Foshan project showing competitive pricing [69][70]. Investment Recommendations - The report suggests focusing on high-quality shopping center operators and related consumer infrastructure REITs, as they are expected to maintain high occupancy rates and stable sales [3][6]. - It highlights the potential for investment in companies like China Resources Land and New Town Holdings, which are well-positioned in the evolving market landscape [3][6].