hBits, India’s premier platform for investing in commercial real estate, has raised INR 40 Crore in its Series A funding round from Capricon Realty Private Limited, an entity of Thackersey Group. This milestone comes at a pivotal time for hBits, as it capitalizes on SEBI’s newly introduced Small and Medium Real Estate Investment Trust (SM REIT) regulations to revolutionize access to Grade-A commercial real estate for individual and institutional investors. The funds will be used to enhance hBits’ AI-driven technology platform, expand its geographical presence, and bring curated, high-value investment opportunities to a wider audience.
The Thackersey Group, with a rich legacy of over 150 years, has been a significant contributor to Mumbai’s business and cultural fabric, spanning industries like textiles and real estate. Their stewardship includes being the landowner for landmark projects such as Raheja Vivarea and Rustomjee Crown, reflecting their enduring impact on the city’s skyline. The partnership between the Thackersey Group and hBits represents a unique convergence of legacy and innovation, as the group invests in a forward-thinking business reshaping the future of commercial real estate.
Raoul Thackersey of the Thackersey Group shared his thoughts on the partnership:?"We always believed in forward-thinking investments that shape industries and communities. We are proud to partner with Shiv and the visionary team at hBits in their mission to redefine real estate investments in India. The SM REIT framework has the potential to democratize access to Grade-A commercial real estate for investors across the country. With our legacy of over 150 years, we understand the importance of building enduring businesses, and we’re excited to support hBits in creating a lasting impact in the real estate sector."
Building the Stock Market of Real Estate?hBits is spearheading a real estate investment revolution, creating what many are calling the "stock market of real estate." The platform enables individuals to own shares in Grade-A commercial buildings, transforming these premium properties into stable and accessible investment opportunities. With a minimum investment size of just INR 10 lakhs, hBits ensures that high-quality commercial real estate is no longer restricted to institutional investors.
hBits also leverages advanced AI technology to analyze market trends, evaluate property performance, and identify the best investment opportunities for its users. This data-driven approach helps reduce risk, optimize returns, and provide a seamless experience for investors.
The introduction of SM REITs will further enhance this model by offering a regulated framework that mirrors mutual funds, making commercial real estate investments seamless and structured.
Shiv Parekh, Founder and CEO of hBits, remarked:?"This is the mutual fund moment for the real estate industry. Just as mutual funds democratized stock market investing, SM REITs have the potential to make Grade-A commercial real estate accessible to everyone. We believe SM REITs could become as large as mutual funds in the next 10 years, offering investors a stable, high-performing, and transparent way to build wealth."
Parekh further added:?"Partnering with the Thackersey Group is a remarkable milestone for us. Their 150-year-old legacy of building enduring businesses and their strategic insights will be invaluable as we scale. Combining their expertise with our AI-driven platform and passionate team, we aim to create a sustainable, long-term enterprise that transforms real estate investment in India."
hBits’ Growth Vision?The company aims to triple its Assets Under Management (AUM) from INR 500 Crore to INR 1,500 Crore by the end of the next financial year, driven by the launch of its SM REIT offerings. These offerings will provide investors with regulated, diversified, and high-performing options across India’s key commercial real estate hubs.