Strong property fundamentals and continuing corporate activity are driving the strong performance of the South African listed property sector, according to Catalyst Fund Managers.

The listed property sector looks likely to remain a good investment prospect next year.

In a surprise turn of events, ApexHi Properties’ new C units, which were introduced on to the JSE’s main board six weeks ago, have doubled in value in the first month of trading.

REMAIN COMMITTED: Standard Bank Properties’ Mariette Warner.

Unit trust company Stanlib is launching a new batch of collective investment schemes because of the high level of demand for listed property.

The launch of two new global property funds will give South African investors access to quality properties the world over, including the London property market.

You don't necessarily need to own bricks and mortar to take part in the property boom.

Listed property had another good run in 2004 achieving average total returns of 41%, outperforming the JSE Securities Exchange’s all-share index, bonds and cash. Those who invested in listed property via specialist unit trust funds (offered by among others Coronation, Marriott, Old Mutual and Stanlib) would have achieved similar returns. Figures from Standard & Poor’s (see unit trust pages) confirm that flexible property unit trust funds achieved total returns over the past 12 months of between 30% and 38%. The top performer in this sector was Old Mutual’s SA Quoted Property fund.

Leading unit trust company Stanlib announces with effect 1 February 2005 its Multi-Manager Property Fund - run by Marriott Properties and Standard Bank Properties - is closed to new investment. Stanlib head of investments Malcolm Holmes

Listed property made investors rich last year, but is it 2005’s best buy, ask Adele Shevel and Chris Needham