PROGRAM 2026

15 October 2026, Hanzas Perons, Riga, Latvia

    • BREL FORUM PROGRAM 2026


    • BREL FORUM SESSION I: Baltic Region Development


    • 10:15 - 10:40
      1 The Future of Baltic region development

    • 10:40 - 11:10
      This discussion will explore how pension reform could reshape capital flows and real estate investment across the Baltic region. Drawing on the experience of Estonia and Lithuania, where reforms have already been implemented, the panel will examine the market effects observed so far and consider what lessons they may offer Latvia, where changes to the pension system are still under discussion. The conversation will address how differences between national pension systems influence investment strategies, real estate allocations and liquidity requirements. Panellists will discuss the withdrawal of capital from real estate funds, the resulting pressure to raise liquidity, and the response of pension funds and other institutional investors as they reassess portfolio allocations and risk exposure. The panel will also consider broader market consequences, including increased apartment sales, short-term changes in retail activity and inflation-related adjustments. Finally, it will place pension reform within the wider economic and policy environment, assessing how inflation, market conditions and regulatory decisions may influence future real estate investment flows in Latvia and across the Baltics.
      1 The Future of Baltic region development

    • BREL FORUM SESSION II: Investments for Growth


    • 12:00 - 12:40
      Some of the region’s largest investors are active not only in their home markets but also across Europe and beyond. Yet despite growing international opportunities, many continue to see strong value in investing locally. Why does local real estate remain an important part of their strategy, and how do they balance regional expertise with global ambitions? This panel brings together leading investors to discuss their investment philosophy, decision-making frameworks, and long-term vision for the industry. From residential and logistics to offices, retail, and alternative asset classes, panelists will share which sectors they believe are best positioned for future growth, how they assess risk and opportunity, and where they see the next wave of value creation. Join us for an honest conversation on investment strategy, market cycles, and the future direction of real estate in the Baltics and beyond.
      2 Investments for Growth

    • 12:40 - 13:00
      2 Investments for Growth

    • 13:00 - 13:40
      With international investment activity remaining subdued in recent years, local investors have stepped in to play an increasingly important role in shaping the Baltic real estate market. From property acquisitions and value-add repositioning projects to large-scale developments, domestic capital is proving both resilient and ambitious. This panel will explore how local investors identify opportunities, compete with larger institutional players that often benefit from lower-cost capital, and successfully scale their operations. What strategies are driving their growth, and are we witnessing the emergence of a new generation of major market players?
      2 Investments for Growth

    • BREL FORUM SESSION III: Future Trends in CRE [Stage A]


    • 15:00 - 15:30
      As defence spending across the Baltic region continues to rise, new opportunities are emerging for both institutional and private investors. This panel will explore how public investments in defence, security, and critical infrastructure are shaping the regional economy and creating long-term value across real estate, logistics, manufacturing, energy, and technology sectors. Industry leaders, investors, and defence-sector representatives will discuss where capital is flowing, what investment opportunities are developing around defence infrastructure, and how investors can participate in the growth of a stronger and more resilient Baltic economy.
      3 Future-Proofing Development
      Where
      STAGE A

    • 15:30 - 16:00
      As real estate becomes increasingly experience-driven, community building is emerging as a powerful source of competitive advantage across residential, office, retail, and mixed-use projects. But while construction costs, occupancy rates, and rental income can be measured with precision, the value of belonging, engagement, and loyalty is far harder to quantify. How do leading developers and operators create thriving communities, and how do those communities translate into stronger tenant retention, higher occupancy, increased customer spending, and long-term asset value? This panel will explore the strategies, tools, and success stories behind turning community into measurable business results.
      3 Future-Proofing Development
      Where
      STAGE A

    • 16:00 - 16:30
      As AI transforms jobs, team structures and ways of working, its impact on the office remains uncertain. Will companies need fewer desks, or more spaces for collaboration, learning and secure work? This panel will explore how AI may reshape headcount, strengthen or weaken the case for coming together in person, and what office owners should prepare for now.
      3 Future-Proofing Development
      Where
      STAGE A

    • BREL FORUM SESSION III: Residential Sector Development Across the Baltics [Stage B]


    • 15:00 - 15:30
      Despite geopolitical uncertainty and economic headwinds, developers across the Baltics continue to invest heavily in new residential and mixed-use projects. What underpins this confidence, and who are they building for? This panel will explore the demand drivers shaping the region’s real estate market: from demographic shifts, urbanisation and migration patterns to affordability challenges and changing consumer preferences. Developers and investors will discuss who they expect to attract, what market gaps they aim to fill, and why they believe demand will continue to support growth in the years ahead.
      3 Future-Proofing Development
      Where
      STAGE B

    • 15:30 - 16:00
      Rental housing has been a strategic priority for years, with regulatory reforms expected to unlock approximately EUR 100 million in new investment annually into the sector. Yet despite these ambitions, the market remains highly fragmented, institutional participation is limited, and new supply has grown more slowly than anticipated. What is holding the sector back? Which business models are proving successful today, and what conditions are needed to attract larger-scale, long-term investment? This panel will bring together developers, investors, operators, and policymakers to discuss the future of rental housing, the barriers to growth, and what it will take to establish rental housing as a mature and scalable asset class in the Baltics.
      Where
      STAGE B

    • 16:00 - 16:30
      3 Future-Proofing Development
      Where
      STAGE B

    • BRELF Awards 2026 [Stage A]


    • NETWORKING & WINE


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