HONG KONG: Asia is well placed to weather current short-term volatility, according to CB Richard Ellis Group Inc (CBRE) in their global ViewPoint report recently.

CBRE has analysed the implications for commercial real estate from the recent volatility in the global equity and capital markets, Standard & Poor's downgrade of the US credit rating and weak economic growth.

SEOUL: Several South Korean banks have temporarily halted fresh household lending or tightened loan screening in what they say is a response to a request from the government, which is worried about debt levels building up in Asia's fourth largest economy.

HONG KONG: CB Richard Ellis (CBRE), the world's largest commercial real estate services firm, has elected Dr Mark Smith as managing director for client development for global corporate services.

Based in Hong Kong, Smith will be responsible for client development of global corporate services business across Asia.

KUALA LUMPUR: 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) has roped in several local and international consultant companies to help in its plan to develop its Kuala Lumpur International Financial District (KLIFD) project.

KUALA LUMPUR: Timber and property development company Eksons Corp Bhd has acquired 37 pieces of land totalling approximately 30ha for RM22.3 million, boosting its landbank for future development.

HONG KONG: If you see groups of Taiwanese yuppies hanging around Hong Kong's major shopping and entertainment districts, don't be surprised.

HONG KONG: The tender for a former government supplies depot in North Point is expected to attract keen interest from developers despite last week's poor land auction result and the volatile share market, which has sapped market confidence.

HONG KONG: Sellers have begun cutting their asking prices for Hong Kong properties in response to growing uncertainty over the global economic outlook — creating new opportunities for buyers who until now have been priced out of home ownership.

HONG KONG: The market for Hong Kong homes has reached a turning point, with prices and transaction volumes both likely to see corrections, says property consultant CB Richard Ellis (CBRE).

PUTRAJAYA: From next year onwards, civil servants can apply for housing loans via the Malaysian Treasury's integrated housing application system portal.