FROM INDIA TO THE WORLD

Anshuman Magazine, Chairman and CEO of CBRE India, South East Asia, Middle East, and Africa, shares insights from nearly three decades of leadership, on scaling sustainably, designing future-ready workspaces, and meeting the evolving expectations of a new generation of creators.

- Hetal Oswal

You have steered CBRE’s remarkable growth in India and beyond for nearly three decades; what have been the most defining moments of this journey for you?

Over the past three decades, some key moments have defined CBRE's journey in India and beyond. A major milestone was turning a small team into a 16,000-strong market leader, trusted by top occupiers and investors. Landmark mandates like the disinvestment of 26 Government-owned hospitality assets and major airport privatisations were pivotal. We've also played a key role in enabling global brands to enter and expand in India, while contributing to national priorities like the PM Gati Shakti Plan and infrastructure consulting for key ministries. What truly defines this journey is our ability to scale responsibly with a strong focus on ethics, compliance, and a people-first culture that earns enduring client trust.

How do you adapt CBRE’s global strategies to address the unique cultural and market nuances across India, South-East Asia, the Middle East, and Africa?

In a region as diverse as India, South-East Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, a one-size-fits-all strategy doesn’t work. CBRE’s global frameworks provide consistency, but it’s local execution that delivers real impact. Our execution is shaped by cultural nuance, long-term relationships, and a deep understanding of each market.

For instance, in India, we've seen strong, broad-based growth across office, retail, residential, hospitality, technology, BFSI and industrial sectors. Office leasing remains resilient, driven by continued demand from IT, BFSI, and GCCs in key cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune comparable to mature markets like Japan and Singapore.

In Southeast Asia, sentiment varies. Singapore remains stable, while others require a more calibrated approach. We adapt to local demand cycles and help occupiers navigate evolving conditions.