Core Insights - Hang Lung Properties has signed a 20-year lease with Baida Group for the B and C halls of Wulin Yintai, with an annual rent of approximately 150 million yuan, totaling around 3.3 billion yuan over the lease term [1] - This marks Hang Lung's first attempt to expand in mainland China through a light-asset model, moving away from its traditional heavy-asset approach of land acquisition, development, and operation [1][4] - The decision to lease instead of buy may be influenced by the challenges faced with the adjacent Baijingfang Phase II land, which has not progressed as expected [4] Project Overview - The Wulin Yintai complex has been a significant player in the beauty retail sector in Zhejiang and nationally, with Hang Lung's acquisition aimed at creating a large integrated complex of approximately 300,000 square meters, connecting with the West Lake 66 project [5][7] - West Lake 66 is positioned as a high-end commercial landmark in East China, comparable to Tokyo's Ginza, and is currently the only project under construction among Hang Lung's 11 projects in mainland China [4][7] Market Context - The Wulin business district is recognized as Zhejiang's first billion-yuan commercial area and is a central hub in Hangzhou, with the potential for West Lake 66 to challenge established players like Hangzhou Tower [7][10] - Despite the challenges faced by Hang Lung's existing high-end malls in mainland China, the company is betting on West Lake 66 to reverse its performance outside Shanghai, making Hangzhou a critical battleground for its future success [8][9] Competitive Landscape - The commercial landscape in Hangzhou is currently facing delays with several high-end projects, which may provide an opportunity for West Lake 66 to establish itself as a leading destination [9][10] - The addition of West Lake 66 to the Wulin business district could revitalize the area and enhance its competitive positioning against other luxury retail developments [10]