标签： North America

The UAE real estate market is witnessing a significant shift as mixed-use communities emerge as the most profitable investment option, outperforming traditional standalone residential buildings. According to recent data, mixed-use developments have achieved the highest rental yields year-to-date at approximately 8%, compared to 7% for master-planned communities and 5% for standalone residential projects. This trend underscores the growing preference for integrated living spaces that combine residential, retail, and lifestyle amenities. Cherif Sleiman, Chief Revenue Officer at Property Finder, highlighted that such developments attract tenants seeking convenience, community facilities, and proximity to workplaces. The demand for smaller, affordable units like one-bedroom apartments and studios has surged, with apartments constituting 57% of buyer demand and 78% of rental searches. Mixed-use communities also command rental premiums averaging 20–25%, with steady demand throughout 2025. While standalone buildings have seen a 16% price appreciation, slightly higher than mixed-use developments at 15%, the latter offers a balanced combination of rental returns and capital growth. Experts like Ben Crompton of Crompton Partners Estate Agents emphasize that mixed-use projects provide long-term stability, higher ROI, and resilience against market downturns due to their diversified tenant mix. Jamal Lootah, President of MEFMA, noted that integrated communities benefit from shared infrastructure, reducing operational costs and ensuring stable occupancy. This shift aligns with urban strategies like Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which promotes walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods. While standalone developments will persist, the future of UAE real estate is increasingly defined by self-sustained, amenity-rich communities.

Acube Developments has reached a significant milestone with the official handover of Adhara Star, its inaugural project in Arjan, Dubai. This achievement underscores the company’s rapid ascent in Dubai’s competitive real estate market, showcasing its ability to deliver high-quality, innovative, and lifestyle-focused developments. Completed in under two years since the company’s inception, Adhara Star has already sold out within three months of its launch, reflecting strong investor confidence and setting the stage for Acube’s ambitious future projects. The freehold mixed-use development features 113 residential units spread across 13 floors, complemented by ground-level retail spaces and podium parking. Designed for modern urban living, the project offers a range of apartment configurations, including one, 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5-bedroom units, all equipped with premium European appliances and luxury finishes. Adhara Star combines affordable luxury with a community-centric lifestyle, catering to Dubai’s growing population of families and young professionals. Residents will enjoy access to a variety of premium amenities, including a rooftop pool, Japanese Zen Garden, health clubs, an indoor gym, sports courts, and an open-air fitness zone. Notably, the development is certified as a Green Building, highlighting Acube’s commitment to sustainable construction and resource-efficient design. Ramjee Iyer, Chairman and CEO of Acube Group, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating that Adhara Star reflects Dubai’s dynamic property market and the company’s ability to maintain world-class standards. With its brand promise, ‘Live on a Star,’ Acube aims to continue delivering projects that blend aspirational living with lasting value, shaping communities and setting new benchmarks in the real estate sector.

The United States is bidding farewell to the penny, a one-cent coin that has been in circulation for over 230 years. The Philadelphia Mint will produce its final batch of pennies on Thursday, marking the end of an era. While the coins will remain in circulation, businesses are already adjusting prices as pennies become increasingly scarce. The decision to halt production is driven by economic considerations, with the government estimating annual savings of $56 million. President Donald Trump, who first announced the plans in February, framed the move as a step toward eliminating waste in the national budget. Pennies, which honor Civil War president Abraham Lincoln and are made of copper-plated zinc, now cost nearly four cents each to produce—more than twice the cost a decade ago. The rise of electronic transactions has further diminished the penny’s relevance, with the Treasury Department noting that approximately 300 billion pennies remain in circulation, far exceeding commercial needs. A 2022 government analysis revealed that about 60% of all coins in circulation, equivalent to $60-$90 per household, are stashed away at home, deemed not worth trading in. However, the phase-out may have unintended consequences for consumers. A study by the Richmond Federal Reserve estimates that businesses rounding up prices could cost shoppers $6 million annually. The US is not alone in this trend; countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have also phased out their lowest-value coins. Attention in the US has now shifted to the nickel, which costs nearly 14 cents to produce despite its five-cent face value. Retiring the nickel could have a more significant financial impact, potentially costing consumers $55 million annually.