Mainboard-listed Starhill Global REIT, which owns malls along Orchard Road, has reported a 6.3 per cent increase in its distribution per unit (DPU) for the first quarter of this year, compared to a year ago.
The DPU for the three months ended March was 1.87 Singapore cents.
Its total income available for distribution also rose 12.2 per cent to S$19.1 million. Of this, S$18 million will be distributed. The S$1.1 million retained relates mainly to overseas income.
The REIT’s gross revenue for the quarter was up 12.6 per cent on-year, at S$34.3 million. About one quarter of this came from the REIT’s master lease in Ngee Ann City.
The REIT’s gearing remains relatively low at 31.1 per cent.
Almost 90 per cent of its debt is fixed until September 2010, which means it is relatively shielded from interest rate volatility.
The REIT’s manager, YTL Pacific Star, said it will focus on tenant retention going forward. It is also aiming to strengthen its asset position while sourcing for acquisitions.
Source : Channel NewsAsia – 27 Apr 2009