GTC lists on the JSE

The GTC Group, a prominent public commercial real estate operator and developer in Central, Eastern, and Southern Europe, has made a significant move by listing on the main board of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). The CEO of GTC Group, Thomas Kurzmann, shed light on the reasons behind this strategic decision in an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa. The listing marks a new chapter for the company's growth and expansion opportunities, particularly in the South African market. Kurzmann highlighted the strong interest and support from South African investors, making the decision to list on the JSE a natural progression for the company. He emphasized the alignment of interests and the ease of access for investors to participate in joint ventures with the GTC Group. The move is expected to open up new avenues for collaboration and investment in the commercial real estate sector across Europe. Kurzmann also discussed the growing interest from South African investors in the Central and Southern European regions, citing the substantial growth potential and economic opportunities in the market. He acknowledged the detailed analysis conducted by investors in the region, which has fueled their excitement to engage with the property sector in CE and SE. Despite the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Brexit, Kurzmann remained optimistic about the impact on the real estate market in Europe. While expressing disappointment over the Brexit decision, he noted an increase in demand for office space in the Southeastern regions as businesses consider relocating from the UK. The CEO emphasized the importance of assessing the long-term implications of Brexit on the commercial real estate sector, particularly in light of potential market shifts and investor sentiment. Furthermore, Kurzmann addressed the topic of REIT valuation, underscoring the significance of accurately assessing the value of assets and maintaining a growth-oriented strategy. He outlined GTC Group's approach to revaluation and asset estimation in 2014, positioning the company for sustainable growth and market resilience. Kurzmann emphasized the importance of transparency and growth potential in determining the valuation of REIT stocks, highlighting the company's commitment to maximizing shareholder value and capitalizing on emerging opportunities in the market. The listing of GTC Group on the JSE reflects a strategic milestone for the company and signifies its ongoing efforts to leverage market opportunities and expand its presence in the dynamic commercial real estate landscape of Europe.