Where Southeast Asian Investors Are Buying Property in 2025
Published on June 18, 2025 | by DSGN arcHive
JLL’s James Puddle shares how Southeast Asian investors are driving global property trends and tapping into cross-border opportunities.
If you’re curious about where savvy Southeast Asian property investors are putting their money next, this is one interview you won’t want to miss. With over 15 years in the business and a track record that spans London, Singapore, and beyond, James Puddle knows a thing or two about spotting property trends before they take off. Now leading Residential Development Sales for Southeast Asia at JLL, James brings a sharp eye and global perspective to the table. In the interview ahead, he shares timely insights into cross-border property investment and the growing interest from Southeast Asian investors. Definitely worth a read if you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve. Scroll down for all the details…
About James Puddle
James Puddle leads International Residential for South East Asia at JLL Singapore, connecting high-net-worth investors with premier residential developments across the region. Before joining JLL in 2023, he founded One Global Group, expanding the boutique project-marketing agency from Singapore to Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Middle East and Africa after nearly 12 years marketing UK residential properties to international buyers. He is the organiser of the upcoming Global Property Expo in Singapore, 18-20 July 2025.
Cross-Border Property Insights with James Puddle
1. What inspired JLL to launch the Global Property Expo, and how does it reflect the evolving investment appetite of Southeast Asian investors?
James Puddle: We launched the Global Property Expo because we saw a clear shift in how Southeast Asian investors are engaging with the global real estate market. In 2023, investors from Singapore alone committed more than US$25 billion to overseas properties, which shows how active and influential this region has become.
The Expo is designed to connect investors with premium residential projects around the world, all in one place. As Singapore’s first major event dedicated to international residential property, it aims to create a space where investors can explore property investments, ask the right questions, and walk away with the insights and connections they need to move forward with confidence.
2. How does the Global Property Expo set itself apart from other international real estate events in terms of access, insight, and investor value?
James Puddle: Unlike any other event held in Singapore, the Global Property Expo is created by JLL, a world-class real estate firm, which ensures a curated and high-caliber experience from start to finish. This isn’t just another industry gathering, but a platform built for serious investors, with direct access to exclusive developments, financing opportunities, and expert insights that support real decision-making.
The Expo is designed to grow, not just in size, but in impact. Our vision is to establish it as the flagship international property event in Asia, one that continues to expand its reach year after year. Investors will find more than listings; they will gain a deeper understanding of market opportunities, learn how to navigate complex regulations, and walk away ready to pursue real estate deals with greater confidence.
3. Which global cities or regions are generating the most buzz among investors right now – and why?
James Puddle: We observe strong interest in global cities that are successfully transforming into dynamic urban centers. For instance:
● Lisbon has transitioned into a thriving tech and remote work hub.
● Dubai continues to shine as a global investment hub, driven by pro-investor government reforms, long-term visas, and zero income tax. Its real estate sector has shown impressive resilience, with luxury and branded residences seeing record demand. Dubai’s appeal is not just lifestyle – it’s increasingly seen as a global HQ location for entrepreneurs and digital nomads.
● Melbourne is enhancing liveability with significant investments in suburban rail networks.
● Bangkok is driving growth through mega-infrastructure projects.
● Tokyo is back in the spotlight, thanks to the weak yen making assets more attractive to overseas buyers. Its reputation as a safe haven with strong fundamentals is reinforced by continued infrastructure investment ahead of major events like the Osaka Expo 2025. Investors are particularly drawn to residential and hospitality sectors, where demand continues to outpace supply.
● Abu Dhabi is experiencing a surge in investor attention, particularly in high-quality residential and waterfront developments. The emirate’s sovereign wealth backing, steady economic diversification, and rising cultural and sustainability credentials – think the Guggenheim and Masdar City – are positioning it as both a stable and forward-looking destination for long-term investors.
● Australia’s Gold Coast is capturing attention for its lifestyle appeal and relative affordability compared to Sydney or Melbourne. There’s growing interest from Southeast Asian investors and returning Australians seeking coastal living with strong rental yields. Infrastructure upgrades, population growth, and the build-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics are all adding to the momentum.
We also see significant interest from Southeast Asian investors on the global stage. Singaporeans, Malaysians, Indonesians and Filipinos are increasingly looking beyond domestic markets to secure second homes and valuable investment assets in diverse global destinations, including those in Europe and the U.S.
4. How does JLL’s expansive international network benefit investors attending the expo who are exploring overseas assets for the first time?
James Puddle: One of the biggest advantages we have at JLL is our global reach. Because of the relationships we’ve built with top developers in key markets, we’re able to bring a curated selection of high-quality projects to the Expo. These are trusted names we’ve worked with over time, and that sets the tone for the kind of experience we want visitors to have.
For someone exploring international property for the first time, that trust factor is incredibly important. We’re making sure attendees meet the right developers, gain practical insights, and connect with financial experts who can guide them through the process. And the support doesn’t end at the Expo; JLL will ensure first-time cross-border buyers have access to ongoing advice and resources, long after the event is over.
5. For investors who may be new to cross-border property investment, how does the expo support their journey – from due diligence to financing and post-purchase services?
James Puddle: That’s exactly what we had in mind when designing the Expo, because we know that for many people, investing overseas can feel complex. There’s a lot to consider, such as legal frameworks, financing structures, and even what happens after the purchase is complete.
What we’ve done is bring all the right people into one place. During the Expo, visitors aren’t just looking at properties but also having real conversations with developers, legal advisors who know the fine print, and financing experts who can explain what’s possible based on the market they’re exploring.
And the best part is, it’s not a one-off interaction. First-time investors won’t be left to figure things out on their own after the event. Because JLL is behind it, the support continues. We stay close to our clients well beyond the Expo, whether it’s helping them through the post-buying process or simply offering trusted advice as they move forward.
6. What kind of developers and projects can visitors expect to see at this year’s expo? Any highlights or exclusive launches you can share?
James Puddle: Visitors can expect a curated showcase of residential projects from around the world. Some of the exhibitors include:
● UK & Europe: JLL Residential (UK & Portugal), Far East Consortium (Manchester & London), British Land (Canada Water), CPL (One Thames Quay), North Fleet Harbourside (London).
● Australia and New Zealand: Developers Gurner Group (Australia) and Barfoot & Thomson (New Zealand)
● Americas: A property developer from Boston.
● Asia: Exhibitors such as ES-CON (Japan), ERA Skyluke Property (Thailand), and Tropicana (Malaysia).
A key highlight is the participation of major developers from the UAE, including DAMAC, Emaar, and MODON Group. This will be the first time they are exhibiting directly in Asia, signaling a growing interest in expanding their visibility and investment networks across Southeast Asia.
7. How is the expo integrating thought leadership – will there be talks, panels or sessions addressing current trends like sustainability, taxation, or digital innovation in real estate?
James Puddle: Yes, thought leadership is a big part of what sets the Expo apart. Across 3 days, we’re running over 30 expert-led sessions and it’s all designed to give visitors the clarity and confidence they need to take the next step, whether they’re new to overseas investment or looking to sharpen their strategy. Some of the key topics include:
● Sustainability and ESG: Exploring eco-investments, responsible real estate, and the premium of ESG-compliant properties.
● Technology and digital innovation: Covering PropTech, how technology is transforming real estate, and fractional/tokenized ownership.
● Finance, taxation, and legal guidance: Delving into international property financing, cross-border law, ownership structures, and decoding rental yields.
● Investor strategy and market outlook: Sessions on the economy’s impact on real estate, modern investment strategies, and a beginner’s guide to residential investment.
8. Looking ahead, how do you see Southeast Asian investors shaping global real estate trends – and how is JLL evolving to support that ambition?
James Puddle: We’re seeing Southeast Asian investors play a much larger role on the global stage. Many of them are diversifying portfolios, planning for generational wealth, and seeking assets that are resilient across market cycles.
JLL is evolving to support this ambition by providing more access, deeper insights, and practical tools to guide every step of the journey. The Global Property Expo is a reflection of that. It connects investors directly with international opportunities, and it gives them a space to ask questions, learn from experts, and engage with the people behind the projects.
Our goal is to make cross-border investment more seamless and more transparent. As demand grows, we’re committed to helping investors across Southeast Asia act with confidence, backed by the reach and expertise of our global network.
And there you have it — a full look at the latest property investment trends shaping the decisions of Southeast Asian investors. The question is, are you ready to follow their lead and explore what’s next in global real estate?
*Disclaimer: DSGN arcHive is a media partner of Global Property Expo
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