The year 2008 has witnessed one of the most turbulent financial markets in history and this financial turmoil is undoutedly a major fator and catalyst for currently deepening recession in American and global economy. The severe credit crisis, drying debt market, and increasing
residential housing foreclosure are greatly slowing real estate transaction and continuing to push property price lower. However, from investors' perspective, this may represent great opportunity for real estate investors with deep pockets or financial resources. The statistics shows that during the first three quarters of 2008, 15,200 transactions valued at $1 million or higher in the four major commercial property types — apartment, industrial, office, retail — had closed. Although this figure is down more than 50% from last year, it is still a large market and financing is still available through alternative sources.

The recent US government’s 700 billion USD financial rescue package, similar rescue plan from
European, Asian and other countries have been initiated to restore global financial system and will certainly help revitalize real estate markets. While not being optimistic for immediate recovery, a longterm bright and booming real estate market is well expected.

Held in such market conditions, Real Estate Funds & Emerging Markets is an exciting networking conference that will bring together worldwide investors, fund managers, developers, attorneys, experts and regulators to explore the global real estate market and investigate the new challenges and opportunities, particularly in emerging markets, and share the intelligence and experience. REFEM Agenda, after in-depth industry research, will cover the most important themes and up-to-dated trends in global real estate markets, including: