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By:

Bhalchandra Chorghade

11 August 2025 at 1:54:18 pm

Real estate sentiment steadies ahead of 2026

India’s real estate sector appears to have regained its equilibrium in the final quarter of 2025, with stakeholder sentiment stabilising after a phase of moderation earlier in the year. The 47th edition of the Knight Frank–NAREDCO Real Estate Sentiment Index for Q4 2025 (October–December) indicates that both current and future outlooks remain firmly in the optimistic zone, underpinned by improving macroeconomic visibility, easing inflationary pressures and steady funding conditions. The...

Real estate sentiment steadies ahead of 2026

India’s real estate sector appears to have regained its equilibrium in the final quarter of 2025, with stakeholder sentiment stabilising after a phase of moderation earlier in the year. The 47th edition of the Knight Frank–NAREDCO Real Estate Sentiment Index for Q4 2025 (October–December) indicates that both current and future outlooks remain firmly in the optimistic zone, underpinned by improving macroeconomic visibility, easing inflationary pressures and steady funding conditions. The Current Sentiment Score edged up marginally to 60 in Q4 2025 from 59 in the preceding quarter, while the Future Sentiment Score held steady at 61. Although these readings remain below the peaks witnessed during 2023–24, they reflect a market that has absorbed recent volatility and is now progressing on more stable fundamentals. The stabilisation suggests that stakeholders are tempering expectations while retaining confidence in the sector’s medium-term prospects. A key driver of this optimism is the strengthening domestic macroeconomic environment. Real GDP growth accelerated to 8.2 per cent in Q2 FY 2025–26, a sharp improvement over the 5.6 per cent recorded in the corresponding period last year. High-frequency indicators continue to signal sustained economic momentum, helping offset global uncertainties. According to Shishir Baijal, Chairman and Managing Director, Knight Frank India, stronger macro visibility, steady funding conditions and disciplined decision-making across stakeholders have collectively reinforced confidence. He noted that calibrated residential supply and robust office leasing activity are providing structural support to the market. Funding availability sentiment also improved during the quarter. Most respondents expect liquidity conditions to remain stable or improve, aided by policy continuity and a sustained focus on asset quality. While lenders and investors continue to adopt a selective approach, capital access across asset classes remains supportive, indicating confidence in the sector’s underlying fundamentals rather than speculative expansion. Regionally, future sentiment strengthened modestly across all zones, with every region remaining in the optimistic zone. The South Zone retained its leadership position with a score of 62, driven by strong office leasing in Bengaluru and Hyderabad and resilient demand in higher-ticket residential segments. The East Zone improved to 62 on the back of steady mid-segment housing demand, while the West Zone also strengthened to 62, supported by stable commercial activity and a calibrated approach to residential development. The North Zone recovered to 59, reflecting stabilising sentiment after earlier softness, aided by steady office traction and ongoing infrastructure momentum. The broad-based regional improvement underscores confidence anchored in urban demand and improving economic conditions. Stakeholder sentiment, however, showed moderate divergence. Institutional stakeholders such as banks, financial institutions and private equity funds recorded a higher Future Sentiment Score of 63, reflecting growing confidence in asset quality and liquidity. Developers, in contrast, maintained a more cautious stance with a score of 58, highlighting a disciplined approach that aligns growth plans closely with demand visibility and funding prudence. This divergence points to a market where capital providers are willing to support growth, while developers remain focused on risk management and execution efficiency. In the residential segment, future sentiment improved in Q4 2025, supported by sustained demand in higher ticket size segments and careful inventory management. Although sales momentum has moderated from earlier peaks, improving financing conditions and controlled supply additions have reinforced confidence. Overall sentiment remains optimistic, characterised by stable demand rather than rapid expansion. The office sector continues to anchor overall market confidence. Leasing expectations remain strong, driven by sustained occupier demand, particularly from Global Capability Centres across major cities. Limited availability of quality Grade A space has encouraged pre-leasing and early commitments, supporting firm rental expectations. Sentiment around new office supply has also improved, indicating expectations of a stronger development pipeline even as near-term availability remains constrained. Parveen Jain, President, NAREDCO, observed that the index reflects confidence strengthening after a period of mild moderation, with residential stability and consistent office leasing forming the backbone of optimism. Taken together, the Q4 2025 findings suggest that India’s real estate sector is entering 2026 on a steadier, more balanced footing, guided by economic clarity, prudent capital deployment and demand-driven strategies across asset classes.

What Elections Teach About Branding



Every four years, the world watches as the U.S. presidential election unfolds—a masterclass in personal branding on the grandest stage. Candidates aren’t just politicians; they are brands meticulously crafted to inspire trust, loyalty, and votes. Their speeches, body language, and digital presence are fine-tuned to create a lasting impact. But here’s the real takeaway—elections may come and go, but personal branding isn’t just for politicians. In an era where perception drives success, professionals and business leaders who neglect their personal brand risk becoming irrelevant.


Think about it. A candidate who fails to communicate effectively, who doesn’t differentiate themselves, or who lacks a compelling narrative quickly fades into the background. The same applies to professionals in any industry. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a corporate leader, or someone climbing the career ladder, how you position yourself determines your influence, opportunities, and ultimately, your success.


The parallels between election campaigns and personal branding are striking. First, there’s the power of storytelling. Political candidates don’t just list their achievements; they craft narratives that resonate with people’s emotions and aspirations. The same principle applies to personal branding. Your story—your journey, values, and mission—creates an authentic connection with your audience, whether it’s customers, clients, or potential employers.


Then, there’s visibility. A strong political campaign ensures the candidate is seen and heard across platforms—TV debates, social media, interviews, town halls. In the digital age, professionals need to adopt the same approach. A LinkedIn profile gathering dust, an outdated website, or a non-existent digital presence can be career-limiting. Consistent, strategic visibility builds credibility, establishes authority, and attracts the right opportunities.


Authenticity is another key lesson. Candidates who try to be everything to everyone often lose credibility. The same is true for personal brands. Trying to fit into every mold dilutes your identity. The most influential professionals stand firm in their values and expertise, making their brand an undeniable force in their industry.


The U.S. elections also highlight the importance of adaptability. Candidates must pivot their messaging based on new challenges, audience feedback, and changing sentiments. Similarly, personal branding isn’t static. It requires continuous evolution—upskilling, refining your message, and adapting to industry shifts to stay relevant and impactful.


Perhaps the most overlooked yet crucial takeaway is that a brand is not just what you say about yourself; it’s what others say about you. Candidates invest heavily in managing their reputation. Likewise, professionals must nurture their network, deliver value, and be mindful of their online and offline presence.


Here’s the reality: You don’t need to be running for office to care about personal branding. In a competitive world, your brand is what sets you apart, opens doors, and defines your legacy. Those who embrace it strategically thrive. Those who ignore it risk fading into the background.


If this article made you reflect on your personal brand, it’s time to take action. Don’t wait for opportunities to come knocking—build a brand so strong that they chase you instead. If you’re unsure where to begin, I’d love to help you craft a brand that positions you for long-term success. Let’s make sure your name isn’t just known—it’s unforgettable.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/divyaaadvaani

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(The author is a personal branding expert. She has clients from 14+countries. Views personal.)

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