Property consultant Cushman & Wakefield’s International Investment Atlas summary for 2008 predicts total dealing volumes will fall from $930bn in 2007 to about $770bn by the end of this year.

Despite a probable decline in deal volumes, the predicted total for 2008 remains high by historic standards according to the property consultant, who says the figure is still three times the level of trading seen five years ago.

Emerging markets will see their share of global activity increase from 7.3% in 2007 to nearly 12% in 2008. The report states: “Activity in emerging economies will remain robust, with further gains in emerging Europe, Latin America and Asia.”

Demand will still remain strong for quality property from well-qualified buyers as well as opportunity funds created to take advantage of changing market conditions.

(For a full feature on this topic, see page 70)