Phoenix Business Journal - by Jan Buchholz Friday, November 6, 2009
About 1,000 of the world’s most savvy corporate real estate investors will be in
The three-day event at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa will cater to the issues surrounding REITs, public and private entities that pool individual investors’ money to purchase large commercial and residential portfolios.
Some of the largest publicly traded REITs will be represented at the conference, including
According to NAREIT, its members represent about $500 billion in commercial real estate assets.
“The key themes will be capital market activities, in particular equity offerings, debt markets and the (initial public offering) outlook. We’ll also take a look at acquisitions and how REITs can avail themselves of those opportunities,” said NAREIT spokesman Matt Bechard.
While REITWorld attendees represent huge pools of investment money, there’s no telling if any of them will slip away to scout out distressed commercial properties.
“I can’t say for sure if anyone will be looking at acquisitions while in
But Gary Linhart, managing partner of Phoenix-based
Via West traditionally has acquired local commercial properties, but recently started a new division that invests in REITs.
“REITs buying distressed opportunities in this market will be difficult for them,” Linhart said.“Once the fundamentals in
Reitworld 2009
Where: JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa,
Who: 1,000 REIT executives expected
When: Nov. 11-13
Web: www.nareit.com/meetings/reitworld2009
