Softening global economic conditions have created a rough patch in the commercial real-estate market, causing some experts to fear the worst is yet to come for companies involved in the construction of office buildings, shopping centers and malls.

Indeed, amid the credit crunch, high oil prices and inflation concerns, activity in the U.S. commercial real estate market has slowed even more dramatically as jobs fade and the economy weakens.

Even China's construction boom hasn't been immune, experiencing a marked slowdown since last year (albeit one that pales in comparison with the slump in the United States). Even so, offset by ongoing urbanization, the Chinese market continues to show a strong appetite for apartment complexes, offices and retail space.

One player fairing well in the challenging yet rewarding environment is China Architectural Engineering, Inc. (Nasdaq:CAEI), a leading provider of custom architectural solutions for developers or commercial and public works projects. CAE specializes in the design, engineering, fabrication and installation of high-end building envelope systems, including curtain wall systems (glass, stone and metal), steel construction systems, roofing systems, eco-energy-saving building conservation systems and related products. Through its subsidiaries, CAE's principal business is the design, manufacture, installation and maintenance of structural glass . . .

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