EastGroup Properties Q4 2024: Diverging Views on Market Conditions, Leasing Demand, and Development Trends

These are the key contradictions discussed in EastGroup Properties' latest 2024Q4 earnings call, specifically including: Market Conditions and Green Shoots, Development Leasing and Demand, Leasing Activity Trends and Market Conditions, and Development Starts:



Strong Financial Performance and Occupancy Trends:
- EastGroup Properties reported that funds from operations (FFO) rose by 5.9% for the quarter and 7.9% for the year (excluding involuntary conversions).
- Year leasing was 97.1% with occupancy at 96.1%. Quarterly re-leasing spreads were 47% GAAP and 29% cash. The decline in occupancy was attributed to a challenging cooperative environment.

Acquisition Strategy and Development Outlook:
- EastGroup successfully acquired fully leased buildings in Dallas and Phoenix, expanding its presence in fast-growing submarkets.
- The company fore