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Major global funds in talks to acquire Blackstone's stake in prime Indian Real Estate

The world of international real estate is abuzz with a major potential acquisition. Two of India's premier commercial portfolios, Panchshil Realty and Salarpuria Sattva Group, may see a change in their ownership structure as several global funds eye a significant 50% stake currently held by the Blackstone Group. Those privy to the matter have shared these insights.

Among the contenders for this valuable acquisition are sovereign wealth funds, Singapore's GIC and Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA). Adding to this list are two of Canada's major pension funds, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments) and The Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS). These entities are closely evaluating the assets which span an impressive 26 million sq ft of commercial real estate space in India.

This hefty portfolio boasts of operational assets covering 21 million sq ft, predominantly located in the significant commercial hubs of Pune and Hyderabad. The diverse portfolio not only includes office properties but also features the upscale 415-key JW Marriot hotel and the Pavilion Mall situated in Pune.

Valuations indicate that the deal, once inked, could range between $4.5 to $5.0 billion, marking it as one of the significant transactions in India's burgeoning real estate sector. Yet, even if this stake sees a change in hands, Blackstone will retain other assets in collaboration with Panchshil Realty and Salarpuria Sattva Group. It's notable that these two realty giants have had a long-standing partnership with the US-based private equity firm.

The alliance between Blackstone and Pune's Panchshil Realty dates back to 2014, giving them control over prime properties like Eon Free Zone, Tech Park One, Panchshil Business Park, and ICC Tech Park. Similarly, since 2017, Blackstone has shared a flourishing relationship with Salarpuria Sattva Group, together owning premier properties such as Knowledge City, Image Towers, and Knowledge Park in Hyderabad.

Recent data from Knight Frank India reveals that Indian real estate has magnetized a staggering $32.5 billion in private equity investments across 216 transactions in the last six years. The office real estate segment has been the primary beneficiary, accounting for over $17 billion from 75 of these deals.

Experts in the real estate domain believe that the momentum of investments in the Indian market will continue to surge, given the ongoing policy revisions, enhanced transparency, and an upswing in the demand for grade A commercial spaces. The introduction of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) has particularly revolutionized the sector. Since the inaugural REIT listing in 2019, India now boasts of four listed REITs, paving the way for a dynamic real estate landscape.

In conclusion, the potential acquisition of Blackstone's stake in Panchshil Realty and Salarpuria Sattva Group is a testament to India's growing appeal in the global real estate market. As major players eye this prime asset, it underscores the robustness and allure of the Indian commercial real estate sector on the global stage.

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