JAPAN DATA: The number of new condominiums supplied in Tokyo and
surrounding cities rose 40.8% on year to 7,388 units in December,
marking the 11th straight month of increase, the Real Estate Economic
Institute said. Out of the 7,388 units supplied, 5,806 units, or 78.6%,
were signed for purchasing, staying above 70% for 12 straight months.
Figures above 70% are widely seen as indicating steady demand. The
institute said 2,500 units will be put on the market in January. It
expects 50,000 units to be supplied in the Tokyo metropolitan area in
calendar 2011, showing the highest level since 2007, when 61,021 units
were supplied. In 2010, 44,535 units were supplied in the area.