March is a time of reflection for the European property industry. The contemplation is partly a convivial treat as nearly 20,000 property specialists descend on Cannes for Mipim, their annual trade fair. However, this year's networking will be underpinned by discussion on an important year ahead for the real estate world.

Foremost on delegates' minds will be the impact of the capital streaming into the sector. Real estate players welcome the money from institutions. There is growing evidence that this trend is a fundamental shift in their attitudes towards real estate as an asset class. However, the sector is less enamoured by the dislocation being caused by an influx of new investors, including private buyers, debt-led acquirers and retail funds.