landlords

DFI Retail Group is set to take over Starbucks' Singapore business through an asset exchange with its long-time F&B partner, in a deal worth around US$340 million. The move makes DFI the operator of Starbucks stores in Singapore rather than a landlord partner, deepening its food and beverage footprint. Market watchers are weighing what the price tag means for DFI's growth strategy in Southeast Asia.

Housing officials in Santa Barbara are surveying local rents to update federal housing assistance rates, such as payment standards used in the Housing Choice Voucher program. Accurate rent data determines how much rental support low-income households receive. Residents and landlords are watching to see whether the updated figures will better reflect the area's high rental market.