Nexus Select Trust, India's first listed Retail Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) backed by Blackstone, is in the final stages of acquiring a mixed-use asset from the Galaxy group in Guwahati for ₹1,300 crore. The project, which is still under construction, covers 1.2 million square feet and will enhance Nexus's portfolio, which currently includes 19 malls. This acquisition reflects a broader trend where institutional investors are increasingly targeting tier-2 cities, where consumption growth is outpacing that of metropolitan areas. Cities like Indore, Lucknow, and Coimbatore are experiencing rising disposable incomes and improved infrastructure, making organized retail more viable. Developers are now prioritizing experience-led retail environments, integrating entertainment, food, and community spaces to attract consumers. Nexus Select Trust aims to expand its portfolio to 30-35 malls by 2030, indicating a significant shift in retail investment strategies in India.