Emerging and Developing Markets

"In Africa, the fintech revolution has found a stronghold in a population of 1.2 billion people possessing by far the youngest median age in the world. Today, 70% of sub-Saharan Africa is under the age of 30, and this young, motivated workforce offers the potential for rapid economic growth. Countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa are leading the charge, with mobile payment systems and digital wallets rapidly expanding, and innovative startups providing financial solutions to people who were previously excluded from formal banking systems. Consequently, the African fintech market is expected to see the highest growth in global fintech revenues, and this financial integration can play a prominent role in furthering development in other sectors.

"Key markets
Luxury capitals: India’s eight economic hubs have the most expensive property markets and boast high living standards, and they have held steadfast as the luxury hubs in the region.
Emerging tier 2 cities: these towns have seen remarkable growth in the last decade and have a growing middle class.
Start-up towns: emerging start-up cities are fertile ground for mixed-use retail, community activations and engaging with India’s youth.
Ease-of-living hubs: these cities offer white-space opportunities for community engagement, localised retail strategies and wellness."

"The southeastern European countries of Albania and Bulgaria are emerging as two luxury markets to watch. Both stable, parliamentary democracies and NATO members, the countries shed their “gray zone” reputation under communist rule decades ago – and are now poised for rapid luxury real estate growth.

Set along the Mediterranean Sea just north of Greece, Albania has attracted a steadily increasing cadre of tourists, investors and developers in recent years, enticed by its pristine beaches, rugged mountains, welcoming culture and stable economic and political climate.

“Albania’s real estate market is seeing significant growth in both supply and demand driven by both local and foreign interest, from around Europe and overseas,” says Kris Maranda, managing partner at The Maranda Real Estate Group, the Christie’s International Real Estate affiliate in the country. “With its beautiful landscape and current market conditions, Albania is set to be the next luxury hub in southeast Europe.”

The United Nations World Tourism Organization recently ranked Albania as the fastest growing tourist destination in Europe. Developers have also taken notice, with a raft of new development projects underway in the country, including Grand Park Skyline, a luxurious residential tower in the capital city of Tirana, and Farka Lakefront, about six miles southeast.