Shanghai stands as China's undisputed financial capital, with a metropolitan GDP exceeding US$700 billion and a population of over 24 million. The city represents a convergence of economic dynamism, technological innovation, and forward-thinking urban development.

The city, which will host the ULI Asia Pacific Summit 2026 on May 26-28, is seeing increasing investment from real estate stakeholders. The Emerging Trends in Real Estate® Asia Pacific 2026, published by ULI and PwC in November, ranked Shanghai as the 12^th best city for real estate investment in the region, up six places from the previous year.

The city's economic fundamentals remain exceptionally robust. As home to the Shanghai Stock Exchange, one of the world's largest equity markets by capitalisation, and the Shanghai Free Trade Zone, which pioneered China's economic reforms, Shanghai serves as the country's gateway for international capital and commerce. The financial services sector alone contributes more than 18% of the city's GDP, while advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, and information technology sectors are experiencing accelerated growth.

Shanghai's commitment to smart city infrastructure positions it at the forefront of urban innovation globally. The municipal government has invested billions in 5G networks, artificial intelligence applications, and integrated urban management systems that enhance operational efficiency across the built environment. The city's ambitious carbon neutrality goals have also driven demand for green-certified buildings.

The entrepreneurial ecosystem flourishing in districts such Yangpu and Zhangjiang, which is known as China’s Silicon Valley, has created sustained demand for flexible office spaces and innovation campuses. Shanghai hosts over 200,000 technology companies and has emerged as China's leading hub for artificial intelligence, fintech, and biotechnology ventures. It is also a hub for innovation in real estate. In September, CapitaLand Commercial C-REIT, China’s first internationally-sponsored retail real estate investment trust, was listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange.

The convergence of economic strength, technological sophistication, and innovative commercial formats makes Shanghai an exceptional market for investors seeking exposure to China's continued urbanisation and consumption growth. With transparent regulatory frameworks improving and international connectivity expanding, Shanghai's commercial real estate sector offers compelling risk-adjusted returns within one of the world's most dynamic economies.