Asia's remarkable growth over the past decades has been fuelled by globalisation and demographic dividends, which have also supported a rising middle class. This session aims to explore the implications of the global geopolitical situation and an aging population on Asia’s future growth and the real estate sector.

Moderator:

James McGregor, Chairman, APCO’s greater China region

As financial constraints tighten and geopolitical uncertainties grow, how can the real estate industry sustain its commitment to decarbonisation? This session confronts the difficult trade-offs between financial viability and long-term environmental responsibility. Where do sustainability initiatives create real value, and where do they fall short? What should the industry prioritise when balancing economic pressures with climate commitments? Are current sustainability targets realistic, or are they being sidelined as "too hard to achieve"? Industry leaders will engage in a frank discussion on the future of sustainability in an era of competing priorities.

Designed to raise awareness among young people in creating better communities, the ULI Hines Student Competition Asia Pacific encourages future land-use professionals for collaboration, innovation, and creativity. Meet the region’s competition champions and hear their fresh perspectives on future urban development.

“The ache for home lives in all of us. The safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned.” – Maya Angelou 

A home is more than just a physical space; it’s an emotion, a state of mind, and a place in time. For those of us involved in providing homes for families, it’s easy to overlook the deeper question: How does it feel to live here? 

As Asia’s cities drive global growth, they must evolve to meet shifting needs. Climate change, demographic shifts, and social isolation are reshaping how and where people live, yet housing remains rigid, often unaffordable, and disconnected from daily life. 

This session will introduce ULI’s Home Attainability Index 2025 followed by a panel that will explore innovative solutions to create housing that is user-centric, flexible, inclusive, and climate-resilient. How can we design communities that truly feel like home?

Artificial intelligence is often touted as a game-changer for real estate, but how is it actually being used today? Beyond the hype, what are the tangible applications that are driving efficiency, improving asset management, and reshaping investment strategies? This session will explore AI’s role in predictive analytics, operational automation, and risk assessment, as well as the challenges of implementation. How can AI enhance decision-making in a historically data-rich but slow-moving industry? And what are the limitations, risks, and ethical considerations that must be addressed as technology evolves? Industry leaders will provide a grounded discussion on where AI is making a real impact—and where its potential is overstated.

Widely recognised as one of the real estate industry's most prestigious competitions, this year’s winners represent the highest standards of development practice in the region’s private, public, and non-profit sectors. Meet the outstanding winners of the 2025 ULI Asia Pacific Awards for Excellence and celebrate their exemplary work which will inspire our industry.

Sports and entertainment play a crucial role in shaping vibrant, livable cities. This session examines the impact of sports infrastructure through data-driven insights, successful case studies, and the perspective of athletes. Experts will discuss how integrating entertainment into communities enhances the urban experience and why these developments matter for real estate professionals. Is investing in sports and entertainment just good business, or does it create lasting value for communities?

What are the cross-border investment strategies we should take and how are we navigating the risks and maintaining investors' confidence?

In a time of rapid change, cities have the power to not just withstand challenges but emerge stronger, healthier, and more connected. Climate risks—from wildfires and typhoons to floods and rising heat—are reshaping how and where we live. But resilience isn’t just about surviving disruptions; it’s about building places that help people thrive. 

This discussion will explore how cities can become hubs of well-being, innovation, and social connection, ensuring that communities are not only protected from climate shocks but also enriched with healthier environments, stronger neighborhoods, and greater opportunities. 

Through case studies and forward-thinking strategies, we’ll discover how urban design, real estate, and infrastructure can shape a future where resilience means wellness, sustainability means inclusivity, and cities become places of possibility for all.