Speakers stated at an SECP Talk Series session that regulated Real Estate Investment Trusts can integrate property into the formal economy and link it to capital markets, though expansion relies on clear valuations, solid governance, and easier tax policies.

Commissioner Imtiaz Haider opened the gathering by stating that REITs can gather private funds for infrastructure ventures like energy parks, motorways, bridges, and logistics hubs.

He additionally proposed using REITs to extract value from current public holdings and pay for development works.

Data shared during presentations showed 29 REIT schemes registered across Pakistan by March 2026, reaching a total fund size of Rs. 173.1 billion in December 2025. Across the world, 1,021 listed REITs held a total market capitalization of US$2.04 trillion at the close of 2024.

ISE REIT Management Company Limited Chairman Zahid Latif Khan discussed the international REIT market and offered the Rs. 5.67 billion ISE Towers Rental REIT as a domestic case study.

He additionally pointed out possible parking, developmental, hybrid, and rental REIT prospects in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Arif Habib Dolmen REIT Management Limited Chief Executive Muhammad Ejaz pointed to Globe Residency REIT and Dolmen City REIT as domestic examples.

He noted that Dolmen City REIT reached a market capitalization of Rs. 86.88 billion by September 30, 2026, maintaining occupancy rates above 97 percent across both locations.

Ejaz urged authorities to streamline property transfer duties and taxes alongside examining investment caps to help the industry expand.

Participants emphasized that liquidity and returns for REITs are never certain and rely on market behavior, scheme design, and the assets involved.

Building trust requires independent appraisals, oversight from trustees, transparent reporting, and education for investors, according to the discussion.

SECP Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu joined Commissioners Ali Farid Khawaja, Muzaffar Ahmad Mirza, and Imtiaz Haider at the gathering, alongside lawyers, business figures, and students.

The program wrapped up with a question and answer segment and the distribution of commemorative shields to guest speakers.