The SM-REIT Revolution: Transforming India's Real Estate Investment Landscape

KYRM Knowledge Hub Understanding SM-REITs

India stands at the cusp of a revolutionary change in real estate investment. With 50% of India's household wealth locked in real estate and the mutual fund industry's spectacular journey from ₹1T to ₹65T AUM, the stage is set for the next big innovation: Small and Medium REITs (SM-REITs).

"The next decade will see real estate investment transform from physical to financial assets, just as demat accounts transformed stock investing." Industry Expert

The Current Landscape

  • 50% of India's wealth is locked in real estate
  • 17% equally split among equities, insurance & pension funds
  • 15% in gold investments
  • 14% in bank deposits



Understanding SM-REITs

SM-REITs represent a regulated investment vehicle allowing investors to own fractional shares in real estate assets worth between ₹50 crores and ₹500 crores. This revolutionary framework makes institutional-grade real estate accessible to a broader range of investors.

Key Features

With mandatory listing on stock exchanges, professional management, and a requirement to distribute 95% of distributable cash flows, SM-REITs offer both liquidity and regular income potential to investors.


Investment Opportunities

  • Premium Commercial: Grade-A office spaces with 7-9% annual yields
  • Retail & Banking: High-street retail and bank branches with long-term leases
  • Healthcare & Education: Hospitals, clinics, and educational institutions
  • Specialized Assets: Data centers and premium warehousing facilities


Regulatory Framework

SEBI's comprehensive framework released in June 2024 ensures robust investor protection through:

  • Mandatory professional management
  • Regular valuations every quarter
  • 95% distribution requirement of distributable cash flows
  • Independent trustee oversight