Technology: Data demand drives digital infrastructure boom
There is no doubt that we are all spending more time in front of screens and COVID-19 lockdowns have only intensified this trend. The implications have not been lost on institutional investors. This report looks at the growth in data centres, perhaps one of the best examples of a real asset that sits squarely in the concentric circles of real estate and infrastructure. We also assess investment opportunities in other technology sectors including fibre networks, 5G and hydrogen technology, and analyse how technology is impacting the logistics and office sectors.
Data centres: Get your head in the cloud
More data centres are needed to satisfy the world’s constant appetite for digital services. Investors are moving quickly to download the returns, writes Florence Chong
Fibre networks: Testing the bandwidth
Investors are rushing to invest in fibre networks, but does the sector have the capacity for so much capital? Razak Musah Baba reports
5G: Investors fail to connect
The technology has huge promise, but 5G is yet to represent an institutional investment opportunity, writes Razak Musah Baba
Hydrogen: A new store of value?
It promises to help decarbonise economies, alongside electrification and biofuels. Should institutions be investing in hydrogen? René Lavanchy reports
Proptech: Beyond the spreadsheet
Real estate can be somewhat of a laggard when it comes to technology. But COVID-19 is accelerating the proptech revolution, writes Maha Khan Phillips
Interview: Ryan Williams, Cadre
Stephanie Schwartz-Driver speaks to Ryan Williams (pictured), who launched US proptech company Cadre when he was in his 20s
Proptech: Get ahead of the curve
Real estate managers are investing in proptech to position themselves for the future, writes Maha Khan Phillips
Q&A: Dean Hopkins, Oxford Properties on technology
Dean Hopkins (pictured), the former CEO of scale-up innovation hub OneEleven, was appointed COO of Oxford Properties in 2019 as the real estate arm of OMERS adopted a digital-first strategy. Interview by Vanessa Drucker
Logistics technology: Metal box clever
They might look boring on the outside, but there is a huge amount of technological innovation taking place inside logistics buildings. Florence Chong reports
Healthy buildings: Fit for purpose
COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of health in office buildings. Fortunately, the technology to support this already exists. Vanessa Drucker reports
Proptech: Future funders
Investors and fund managers are investing directly in proptech firms. Are they doing it for the long-term interests of the industry? Razak Musah Baba reports
5G: Static on the line
The rollout of 5G networks could usher in new opportunities for infrastructure investors. But there are challenges to overcome, writes Christopher O’Dea
Data storage: Head in the cloud
Data centres are quickly evolving in line with an expanding world of big data. Investors need to keep up, writes Christopher O’Dea
Energy storage: Batteries not yet included
Lithium-ion batteries are the perfect complement to renewable energy generation. But will they become part of the infrastructure asset class? René Lavanchy reports
Bridges, Resonance and SASC to help deliver UK homeless pilot scheme
Impact fund managers to work with Big Society Capital to provide 200 homes for rough sleepers
