The real estate investment trust (REIT) industry in Europe plays a pivotal role in property investment, allowing individuals and institutions to pool capital to invest in real estate portfolios. REIT companies typically manage portfolios that include residential, commercial, and industrial properties, generating income predominantly through rental yields and property appreciation. The industry is observing a pronounced shift toward sustainability, with an increasing focus on green buildings and energy-efficient properties, driven by growing investor awareness and regulatory requirements. As urbanization continues to rise, REITs are likely to capitalize on emerging markets and evolving property demands, reinforcing their significance in modern investment strategies.


The list features a mix of 16 real estate investment trust investors based in Europe, comprising private equity, corporate entities, and venture capital firms. Majority are based in the UK, France, and Germany, representing a solid investment foundation across diverse property sectors. Most investors boast over 1,000 employees and were founded between 1946 and 2007. In 2024 alone, these investors made significant strides, with Deutsche Bank taking the lead with 32 investments and the European Investment Bank closely following with 99, showcasing their robust engagement in this evolving marketplace.


Top 16 Real Estate Investment Trust Investors in Europe


1. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, founded in 1958, that provides a range of financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services aimed at supporting sustainable projects across various sectors. In recent years, EIB has been actively involved in the real estate sector, particularly through debt financing agreements. Notably, EIB signed a €150 million financing agreement with Vesteda to enhance the sustainability of its residential properties, following a previous agreement in 2020. Additionally, EIB participated in debt financing for CTP, a leading logistics real estate developer, raising significant funds to support their operations. These transactions highlight EIB's commitment to promoting sustainable real estate development, making it a relevant player in the real estate investment trust industry.


2. Deutsche Bank

  • Website: db.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
  • Founded year: 1870
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 32
  • LinkedIn: deutsche-bank

Deutsche Bank AG, founded in 1870 and headquartered in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, is a prominent investment bank and financial services provider. The bank offers a wide range of solutions, including investment banking, corporate banking, cash management, trade finance, and securities services. It serves corporate and institutional clients, helping them manage their financial assets and liquidity effectively through its digital platform, Autobahn. Notably, Deutsche Bank has been active in the real estate sector, exemplified by its acquisition of RREEF in 2002 for $440 million, which marked a significant entry into real estate investment management. In recent years, Deutsche Bank has also facilitated substantial debt financing for various real estate entities, including Azora, which raised approximately $683 million in October 2023, and the Azrieli Group, which secured post-IPO debt in April 2022. These transactions highlight Deutsche Bank's ongoing commitment to the real estate investment trust industry and its role as a key financial partner in real estate ventures.


3. Partners Group

  • Website: partnersgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Baar, Zug, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 19
  • LinkedIn: partners-group

Partners Group Holding AG is an investment management firm based in Baar, Zug, Switzerland, specializing in private equity, private infrastructure, private real estate, and private debt. Founded in 1996, the firm manages over USD 149 billion in assets and offers a range of investment solutions to institutional investors, private banks, and individual investors. Recently, Partners Group has made significant strides in the real estate sector, including acquiring a stake in Citivale, a developer and asset manager focused on logistics and light industrial assets, and acquiring Empira, a real estate investment management firm, to enhance its exposure to real estate credit. Additionally, they have invested in Trinity Investments, targeting opportunities in the hospitality sector across North America and Europe. These transactions highlight Partners Group's commitment to expanding its real estate portfolio and its strategic approach to investing in real estate operating companies.


4. Apex Group Ltd (UK & Ireland)


Apex Group Ltd (UK & Ireland) is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 2003. The firm provides a comprehensive range of financial services, including fund administration, regulatory compliance, and digital banking solutions, catering to asset managers, corporates, family offices, and financial institutions. In recent years, Apex has made significant strides in enhancing its real estate service offerings. Notably, the acquisition of SandsPoint Capital Advisors in August 2022, a firm specializing in advisory services for alternative asset managers in real estate, has bolstered Apex's capabilities in this sector, adding over $30 billion in assets under administration. Furthermore, their acquisition of M.M. Warburg & CO's Asset Management and Servicing business in Luxembourg in January 2018, which added approximately $50 billion to their assets under administration, reflects their growing influence in managing real estate-related assets. These transactions highlight Apex Group's strategic focus on expanding its presence and expertise in the real estate investment trust market.


5. Savills

  • Website: savills.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1855
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: savills

Savills plc is a leading real estate services company based in London, England, with a history dating back to 1855. The firm offers a comprehensive range of property-related services, including asset management, consultancy, and investment advice, catering to individual buyers, investors, and businesses globally. In recent years, Savills has made significant acquisitions to enhance its service offerings and expand its market presence. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Beliving, a residential real estate company in Italy, aimed at bolstering their European residential services, and the acquisition of Studley, a US commercial real estate services firm, for $260 million, which has been rebranded as Savills Studley. Additionally, Savills has acquired a Swiss real estate firm to enhance its ski property offerings and T3 Advisors, which specializes in real estate solutions for technology and pharmaceutical sectors. These strategic acquisitions demonstrate Savills' commitment to strengthening its position in the real estate market and enhancing its capabilities in managing and advising on real estate investments.


6. Head of Data Technology Office at Intesa Sanpaolo


The Head of Data Technology Office at Intesa Sanpaolo is part of a prominent banking and financial services provider based in Turin, Italy. Founded in 2007, Intesa Sanpaolo offers a wide range of financial products, including investment management services. In recent years, the office has been involved in significant transactions within the real estate sector, including a $91.67 million debt financing for REAM SGR Spa and a $535.38 million post-IPO debt transaction for CTP. These activities demonstrate a commitment to supporting real estate ventures, making the office a relevant player in the real estate investment trust landscape.


7. BlackFin Capital Partners


BlackFin Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in investments in the financial services sector, including FinTechs, and focuses on asset-light buyouts while providing investment management and advisory services. BlackFin has a strong presence across Europe and aims to create operational value and support the growth of its portfolio companies. Notably, BlackFin has been involved in several transactions relevant to the real estate investment trust context, including the acquisition of Fokus Asset Management, a Danish real estate management firm, and a majority stake in Blauwtrust Groep, which connects housing-related supply and demand for residential mortgage funding in the Netherlands. These transactions highlight BlackFin's strategic interest in the real estate sector, complementing their broader investment strategy.


8. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital, catering primarily to institutional investors. EQT Group has been actively involved in various significant transactions, including the acquisition of PropertyGuru Group for approximately USD 1.1 billion, which highlights their interest in the real estate sector. They also acquired Radius Global Infrastructure, further demonstrating their commitment to investing in real estate-related assets. With a total of 30 investments in 2024 alone, EQT Group showcases its capability and expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies, making them a relevant player in the real estate investment trust industry.


9. SoftBank Investment Advisers


SoftBank Investment Advisers, founded in 2017 and based in London, is a venture capital firm known for its significant investments in technology-focused companies. The SoftBank Vision Fund, which is part of this investor, primarily targets growth-stage firms that are innovating in various sectors, including health tech and fintech. However, it has also made notable investments in the real estate sector. For instance, they led a $240 million Series E funding round for Roofstock, an online platform for single-family rental investing, which highlights their interest in real estate technology. Additionally, their investment in Clikalia, an iBuyer that raised $86 million, further demonstrates their engagement in the real estate market. These transactions reflect SoftBank's commitment to fostering technological advancements in real estate, making them a relevant player in the real estate investment trust landscape.


10. Axel Springer

  • Website: axelspringer.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
  • Founded year: 1946
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: axel-springer-se

Axel Springer SE is a prominent media company based in Berlin, Germany, founded in 1946. It specializes in publishing news and digital media, operating a diverse portfolio of brands, including BILD and Business Insider. The company is committed to independent journalism and leveraging technology to enhance its media offerings. In addition to its core media business, Axel Springer has made strategic investments in the real estate sector. Notably, it acquired PropertyGate.com in 2001, a platform that likely facilitates real estate transactions. Furthermore, in 2018, Axel Springer participated in funding for Lamudi, a real estate platform that connects buyers and sellers in emerging markets. These transactions highlight Axel Springer's interest in the real estate industry, particularly in technology-driven platforms that enhance real estate transactions and services.


11. Lomond

  • Website: lomond.group
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 10
  • LinkedIn: lomond-capital

Lomond is a corporate investor based in London, England, specializing in property management and real estate agency services. Founded in 2010, the company has rapidly expanded its portfolio through strategic acquisitions, now managing over 37,000 properties valued at approximately £8 billion. Notable transactions include the acquisition of ERE Lettings, which added nearly 600 properties to its portfolio, and the purchase of Centrick, which included a rental portfolio of 1,300 homes. Lomond's aggressive growth strategy is supported by private equity partners, allowing it to consolidate its position in the UK property market. With a focus on lettings, sales, and investment management, Lomond is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the property market, making it a significant player in the real estate investment landscape.


12. Permira

  • Website: permira.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: permira

Permira is a London-based private equity firm founded in 1985, specializing in private equity and credit solutions. The firm partners with management teams and entrepreneurs to drive growth and create long-term value across various sectors, including technology, consumer, healthcare, and services. Notably, Permira has made significant strides in the real estate sector, exemplified by its acquisition of Engel & Völkers, a prominent real estate consultancy platform, which highlights its strategic interest in real estate investments. Additionally, Permira's involvement in transactions such as acquiring a minority stake in AltamarCAM Partners further showcases its diverse investment strategy, although this particular deal is not directly related to real estate. Overall, Permira's activities indicate a commitment to transforming businesses into market leaders, including those in the real estate industry.


13. Paragon Business Finance PLC


Paragon Business Finance PLC is a financial services company based in Hedge End, England, that offers a variety of banking products, including savings accounts, mortgages, and loans. Founded in 1982, the company serves both individual consumers and businesses, providing tailored financial solutions. In recent years, Paragon has been actively involved in the real estate sector, providing substantial funding for various property development projects. Notable transactions include a £3.2 million investment in Brookland Group for the construction of 13 new homes, a £6.5 million funding package for The PG Group's seafront apartment scheme, and a £5.8 million investment in Piper Homes for the development of 28 new homes. These transactions highlight Paragon's commitment to supporting real estate development, making them a relevant player in the real estate investment trust context.


14. Tikehau Capital


Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2004. The firm specializes in alternative asset management, offering a diverse range of services that include private debt, private equity, real assets, and capital markets strategies. Tikehau Capital caters to a variety of clients, including institutional and private investors, as well as SMEs seeking tailored financing solutions to support growth and sustainability initiatives. Notably, Tikehau has been involved in several transactions relevant to the real estate sector, such as their investment in Oryx Real Estate Partners, which raised over $113 million in a venture round in January 2022. This investment highlights Tikehau's commitment to the real estate market. Additionally, their acquisition of Star America, a U.S.-based developer and manager of infrastructure assets, further underscores their strategic interest in real estate and infrastructure, enhancing their capabilities in these sectors.


15. Connells Group


Connells Group is a leading estate agency and property services provider in the UK, founded in 1936 and based in Leighton Buzzard, England. With over 10,000 employees, they offer a comprehensive range of services including residential sales, lettings, mortgage services, and property management. Connells Group has been actively involved in the real estate market through various strategic acquisitions. Notably, in 2012, they acquired a 25% stake in Hearthstone Investments, a residential property fund manager, which allows them to tap into innovative investment opportunities in the buy-to-let market without direct property ownership. Additionally, they have expanded their market presence by acquiring several estate agencies, such as the online estate agent Hatched in 2015 and the independent agent Optima Property in 2019. These transactions highlight Connells Group's commitment to enhancing their real estate services and investment capabilities, making them a relevant player in the real estate investment trust context.


16. Eurazeo

  • Website: eurazeo.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1969
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 40
  • LinkedIn: eurazeo

Eurazeo is an investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in private equity, private debt, and real assets. Founded in 1969, the firm has established a significant presence in the investment management landscape across Europe. Eurazeo provides tailored investment strategies to businesses, focusing on growth and expansion across various sectors, including technology and healthcare. Notably, Eurazeo has been involved in several key transactions in the real estate sector, such as the acquisition of Foncia Group, a leading residential real estate services company, and a 44% stake in Emerige, a prominent property developer in France. These transactions highlight Eurazeo's commitment to investing in real estate, making it a relevant investor in the real estate investment trust context.



Real Estate Investment Trust Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
Deutsche BankFrankfurt, Hesse, Germany10001+187032
Partners GroupBaar, Zug, Switzerland1001-5000199619
Apex Group Ltd (UK & Ireland)London, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+20036
SavillsLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+18555
Head of Data Technology Office at Intesa SanpaoloTurin, Piedmont, Italy10001+200731
BlackFin Capital PartnersParis, Île-De-France, France11-5020095
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
SoftBank Investment AdvisersLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-500201714
Axel SpringerBerlin, Berlin, Germany10001+19461
LomondLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000201010
PermiraLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)501-100019858
Paragon Business Finance PLCHedge End, England, United Kingdom (UK)1001-500019826
Tikehau CapitalParis, Île-De-France, France501-100020046
Connells GroupLeighton Buzzard, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+19360
EurazeoParis, Île-De-France, France201-500196940


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