Debt Costs a Drag for GPT, but Once Interest Costs Peak, Revenue Should Drive Earnings Growth

GPT Group was listed in 1971, and internalized its management in 2005, severing ties with former manager and founder Lendlease. Its long history helped GPT Group to build a property portfolio that includes many well-known assets. For example, its retail portfolio includes Melbourne Central, one of Australia’s most productive retail assets. Its office portfolio includes stakes in Sydney’s Australia Square, Brisbane’s One One One Eagle St, and numerous properties in and around Collins St in Melbourne’s CBD. GPT Group’s retail and office portfolios each contribute about one-third of funds from operations. Another fifth comes from industrial property and a growing balance from funds and property management.