BIBD Securities Sdn Bhd (BIBDS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD), launched the Manulife Shariah Global REIT Fund yesterday.
The Fund, marking BIBDS’ first offering of a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) fund, is designed to invest in Syariah-compliant real estate opportunities worldwide and aims to provide investors in Brunei with diversified sources of long-term income and total return from real estate and infrastructure investments, aligning with the key macro growth trends of the new economy, an ageing population and moderating economic growth.
BIBDS Managing Director Jason Wong said, “This partnership underscores our dedication to delivering innovative Syariah-compliant investment solutions that cater to the values and financial goals of our clients.”
The bank added that the Manulife Shariah Global REIT Fund focuses on three main growth areas: the new economy – increased demand for data centres, telecom towers and logistics warehouses due to digital technologies; the ageing population – rising need for healthcare REITs like medical centres and retirement homes; and moderating economic growth – REITs in industries with pricing power over their products and services due to high demand have the potential to perform well.
Over the past 20 years, global REITs have outperformed broader markets, with Syariah-compliant REITs delivering higher returns due to lower debt ratios, the bank said.
The Fund is ideal for investors seeking a diversified portfolio of global Islamic REITs for regular income and potential capital growth over the medium to long term, while adhering to Syariah principles, the bank added.
BIBD and BIBDS Shariah Advisory Body members as well as senior management were present.
