MCO extension to hurt REIT sector

Negative impact: A shopping mall in Bangsar is almost empty due to the movement control order. Many retail businesses are in dire condition and desperately need help, more so with the extension of the MCO for a further 14 days.

PETALING JAYA: The extension of the movement control order (MCO) is expected to negatively impact the real estate investment trust (REIT) sector, especially businesses with retail assets.

Public Invest Research said, in a report, it has revised downward its fair values to factor in higher risk premium and impact from the MCO, especially on retail-based asset owners.