With the Covid-19 outbreak now officially classified by the World Health Organization as a pandemic, investors are showing mixed attitudes towards the Chinese market. Business activities have slowed, impacted by the pandemic, and yet a plot of land in Xuhui Riverside Area in Shanghai recently sold for a record high RMB31.05 billion.
Against this backdrop, in February 2020 the Cushman & Wakefield Capital Markets team launched a mainland China investor intentions survey. The survey took the form of one-to-one interviews, with senior management of the most active investment institutions in mainland China over the last three years invited to participate.
The survey results demonstrate significant market confidence. More than 60% of respondents believe that investment activities will rebound within six months post Covid-19, and 99% of respondents express their willingness to continue investing in mainland China after the pandemic. In terms of investment in cities, investors are more enthusiastic about Tier 1 cities, especially foreign investors, with 100% of respondents from foreign institutions stating they have plans to invest in Shanghai in the next 12 months.
Today, most investors have become accustomed to turbulence. The straight rise in asset values over the past few years has kept investors waiting for new market entry opportunities should a correction arise. With the China government’s concerted effort to control the coronavirus, and with the support of economic stimulus measures, experienced investors may find this an opportunity to expand their footprint in China, and achieve long-term growth.
To find out more, download the full survey report.
