REITs Funds From Operations Rise Over 11% To $16.3B In Q3 2018

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Stock markets have been choppy in the last few months with growth concerns over several stocks including the hyped FAANG group. Comparatively, the REIT (real estate investment trust) space is having a far smoother run after encouraging third-quarter results.

REITs continued to post impressive gains, with the funds from operations for all listed companies rising 11.1% year-over-year according to the Nariet Tracker.

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Q3 hedge fund letters, conference, scoops etc

Funds from operations (FFO) is probably the most important metric for REITs that defines cash flow from operations. It is a measure of cash generated by a REIT.

Occupancy rates at record highs

The operating performance of REITs is unlikely to slow down any time soon which means there is still room for more earnings expansion.

We can see below that the occupancy rates for REITs reached a record high of 94.3%. Rising occupancy rates is a key driver for rent growth which will mean the funds from operations will continue to rise.

There are some top-quality properties located in prime areas where demand outpaces supply. This put to rest the assumption that new constructions will lead to a glut of REIT properties resulting in a market downturn.

REITs Funds From Operations

Falling occupancy rates results in a market downturn while rising occupancy levels is always an optimistic sign.

Interest rate

The stock markets have been sensitive to rising interest rate environments. However, REITs are well prepared to tackle this issue. The leverage ratios have been at its lowest across the last two decades, indicating sufficient surplus reserves and funds for debt repayment.

REITs Funds From Operations

REITs have enough and more common equity capital to finance portfolios. A lower interest rate environment coupled with lower leverage have held REITs in good stead and they are likely to benefit from this tailwind in a higher interest rate environment as well. Rising interest rates also imply an improving economy.

Dividends payments rose 10% in Q3

While funds from operations rose 11% to $16.3B, net operating income rose 4.8% to $24.3B and dividend payments rose 10% to $14.3B in the third quarter of 2018.

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