The Case for Corporate Investment in Turkey

Turkey, a nation strategically located at the intersection of Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, has evolved into a compelling destination for real estate and tech investment. With a population of 85 million, a burgeoning construction sector, and robust commercial and industrial growth, Turkey offers a fertile ground for both domestic and foreign investors. This article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the key factors that make Turkey's real estate and tech markets attractive investment opportunities, especially for corporate investors.

Foreign Direct Investment: A Global Perspective

In 2021, Turkey saw a significant influx of FDI, amounting to USD 13.3 billion. Remarkably, the real estate sector accounted for USD 5.6 billion or 42.2% of the total FDI. This substantial foreign interest highlights Turkey's global appeal as an investment destination.

TABLE 1. FDI STOCK BY COUNTRY IN TURKEY (BILLION DOLLAR / 2002-2023)

Source: Central Bank of Turkey

Urban Renewal and Infrastructure Projects

Istanbul, the economic and cultural heart of Turkey, is a focal point for ambitious infrastructure projects. These include the Marmaray railway project, the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, and the sprawling Istanbul Airport. The Urban Renewal and Development initiative alone has a staggering budget of USD 400 billion, with significant contributions from the private sector. These projects not only enhance the quality of life but also increase the value of real estate assets, making them attractive for long-term investment.

Mortgage Payment Trends and Market Resilience

The period from 2010 to 2018 saw a noteworthy shift in housing preferences in Turkey, driven by an increase in purchasing power and a decline in inflation rates. This period also witnessed low loan interest rates, encouraging many to invest in real estate.

GRAPH 1. HOUSE SALES IN TURKEY (MILLION UNIT)

Source: TUIK

Even though there is an expectation of a modest decline in housing sales due to rising interest rates, foreign buyers are not as susceptible to these fluctuations. This resilience offers a unique advantage for foreign corporate investors, who can capitalize on this window of opportunity even as domestic interest rates begin to rise.

GRAPH 2. MORTGAGED SALES AND INTEREST RATE (MILLION UNIT)

Source: TUIK and Turkey Central Bank

Commercial and Retail Landscape

By the end of 2021, Istanbul's existing Grade A office space had surpassed 5.8 million square metres, with an additional 1.6 million square metres under construction. The retail sector is equally thriving, with 453 operational shopping malls boasting a combined gross leasable area of 14 million square metres. These figures indicate a robust commercial landscape, ripe for corporate and commercial investment.

The Tech Sector: A New Frontier for Investment

Big tech companies are increasingly finding Turkey to be an attractive investment destination for a multitude of reasons. One of the most compelling is Turkey's large and growing market. The country's substantial population offers significant revenue potential, particularly in burgeoning sectors like e-commerce, digital advertising, and online services. This is further complemented by a young and tech-savvy population that readily adopts digital technologies, providing a fertile user base for tech products and services.

Turkey's strategic geographical location also adds to its allure, serving as a bridge between Europe and Asia. This position allows for easier access to markets across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. In addition to geographic advantages, the Turkish government has rolled out various incentives to attract foreign investment. These incentives range from tax breaks and subsidies to grants, all aimed at encouraging foreign companies to establish a presence in the country.

The nation is also in the midst of a digital transformation, aiming to enhance its technological infrastructure and digital capabilities. This opens up opportunities for tech companies to participate in a variety of projects, from smart cities and e-government initiatives to broader digital infrastructure development. The e-commerce sector in Turkey has been experiencing rapid growth, presenting another lucrative avenue for tech companies to explore.

Istanbul stands out for its thriving start-up ecosystem, offering tech companies the opportunity to invest in or acquire innovative technologies and talent. Moreover, Turkey's status as a popular tourist destination creates a niche for tech companies specialising in travel and tourism-related services. The country's robust manufacturing sector and role as a regional hub for production and supply chain activities further attract tech companies looking to streamline their operations.

Lastly, Turkey offers access to a well-educated workforce with strong technical skills, making it an attractive location for tech investment. Therefore, while there are many opportunities for big tech companies in Turkey, it's crucial for investors to conduct thorough market research and assessment, considering factors like regulatory conditions, cultural differences, and market competition before making significant investments.

Future Outlook

The anticipated reduction in interest rates, set to commence from June 2024, could revitalise the housing market. This presents a promising window for both domestic and foreign investors. Given the existing trajectory, foreign real estate acquisitions are expected to gather momentum, offering substantial benefits for corporate investors looking to diversify their portfolios.

Turkey's real estate and tech markets are a confluence of strategic location, robust infrastructure, and resilience against economic fluctuations. With its welcoming attitude towards foreign investment and a commercial landscape that continues to evolve, Turkey offers unparalleled opportunities for corporate investors. As the nation continues to expand and modernise, its real estate and tech sectors stand as a testament to Turkey's remarkable economic progress, making a compelling case for investment in these burgeoning markets.