Rob Lang runs the country's largest specialist listed commercial property business, AMP NZ Office Trust, known in the markets as ANZO. He has developed something of a profile, being a qualified ski instructor, fluent German speaker and inveterate motor cycle rider.
KEY POINTS:
How would you describe 2007?
It's been a very active year with strong performances across the board. We've been dealing with some great people which always makes the work even more enjoyable. Investors have had a good year and can look forward to an exciting 2008.
What was the company's greatest achievement?
On December 17 we celebrated the 10th anniversary since ANZO was established and listed on the exchange. This event was a major milestone and gave us an opportunity to reflect on all the great investments and strong returns that have been achieved for investors, many of whom have been supporting us since inception. ANZO truly has a world-class investment portfolio.
And greatest disappointment?
There haven't been any great disappointments for us and, on balance, we don't have much to complain about. You always reflect on how things could've been improved but we set fairly high standards which involves detailed planning and focused execution. To make a play on one of Warren Buffet's aphorisms: if the tide was to go out I don't think you'd see us without our swimming trunks on.
What will be the major challenges in 2008?
We will continue to focus on our portfolio and growth opportunities. Those with access to capital and a prudent approach to investment will see many opportunities coming their way during 2008. I think were in that camp but we need to remain agile, diligent and smart.
What was the most interesting business story of 2007?
I remember the story reporting the death of Leona Hemsley, the New York real estate magnate, best known as the Queen of Mean and owner of the Empire State Building. She was quite a lady, remarkable for her ability to accumulate a substantial real estate wealth who then felt inclined to bequest several hundred million dollars to her dog. Another story about Harry Macklowe (another New York real estate magnate) grabbed my attention when it was reported that he bought US$7 billion ($9 billion) of downtown real estate with only US$50 million of equity, with the balance in debt and due for refinancing in January 2008. Shortly after that deal, the credit markets collapsed. It's now the deal to watch in 2008.
Where are you going for the holidays?
To our beach bach in Tapeka, Northland (with my swimming trunks on).
What will you be reading?
The bestseller and very insightful book by Nassim Nicholas Taleb called Fooled by Randomness - the Hidden Role of Chance in Life and Markets, but if you really want to get an understanding and not get accidentally swept up in someone else's grand theory you need to go back to basics, just as I have done. I can highly recommend a fascinating but simple study I have just read a few times and probably will again over the summer called The Wheels on the Bus go Round and Round by Annie Kubler. Penetrating, compelling and something in it for everyone - especially my 16-month-old girl who appreciates it most.
