Improving sentiment, shifting risk appetite and a rethink of sector leadership are reshaping real estate strategies across Asia Pacific, according to CBRE’s latest investor intentions survey.

Financial markets in the Middle East, Apac and across the world are being hit as the price of a barrel of crude and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil surges above $100; the impact on aluminium is another issue.

Energy prices are rising, stock markets are falling and flights remain cancelled as Iran continues attacks on countries across the Middle East, as Israel and the US ramp up pressure.

The oil price has surged to $82 a barrel amid disruption in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran responds with multiple missiles across the Middle East after the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran over the weekend; the UAE has closed its stock markets for two days.

The bank's shares climbed as it beat analysts' expectations despite facing a commercial real estate charge of $700m in Hong Kong. Chairman Brendan Nelson is confident of growth in Asia this year.

The investment banking advisory firm has strengthened in Singapore as secondaries activity gathers pace across the region; Hart previously worked at Adams Street Partners.

SC's operating profit grew 6% last year; Zurich Australia snaps up life insurer ClearView; Citi Vietnam appoints Thai Nguyet Minh as head of markets.

The buoyancy in the sector is being driven by multiple factors, including regulatory shifts, policy support, and debt capital market activity in the city.

Hong Kong payment platform Wonder has raised $12m in venture debt from HSBC Innovation Banking to accelerate its regional expansion.