Life Insurance Corporation Housing Finance (LICHF) is set to launch a new venture capital fund for realty projects.

The size of the fund, which is awaiting regulator approval, is likely to be Rs 3-3.5 billion. LICHF`s new realty fund is expected to invest in residential projects. LICHF had taken a 5% stake valued at Rs 75 million in the new Rs 1.5-billion credit card arm of LIC, which is likely to begin operations in six months.

As part of its overseas expansion plans, LICHF will open a new office in Singapore. Currently, it has branches in Dubai and Kuwait. Meanwhile, LICHF Care Homes, a subsidiary of LICHF, is planning to open residential units for senior citizens in Punjab, Orissa, Kerala and West Bengal. The first project was unveiled in Bangalore.

During April 2007-February 2008, the company sanctioned Rs 73.85 billion against Rs 48.88 billion in the same period last financial year. Disbursements stood at Rs 59.41 billion compared to Rs 41.99 billion.