ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the broad concept of Real estate investment trusts (REIT) and identifies areas of commonality and variation across jurisdictions. It describes the commercial real estate market in India and then an overview of the REIT structure proposed for India. The chapter discusses important considerations for legislators, regulators, owners, and potential investors of possible Indian REITs. REITs are investment companies with shares that facilitate the flow of financial capital to real estate assets. Trustees serve the interests of REIT owners, appointing and monitoring the investment manager and obtaining approvals from owners on matters that require their assent. The majority of REITs in developed markets with a critical mass of REITs tend to be internally advised and internally managed. India is home to many commercial real estate properties, owned by domestic and foreign companies, whose ownership might be converted to the equity REIT form.
