According to the Zurich’s real estate investment experts, after a challenging few years for the asset class, there are numerous reasons to believe that real estate markets are reaching an inflection point. In the geographies where Zurich primarily invests, valuations better reflect the current interest rate environment, occupier markets are holding up and supply pipelines have appropriately recalibrated.
Switzerland: Stability Amidst Uncertainty
In Switzerland, the real estate market is showing resilience and stability. Andrew Angeli, noted, "Switzerland’s diversified economy and stable political environment provide a solid foundation for real estate investments. The country's reliance on renewable energy and consistent low inflation rates make it an attractive market for investors". The Swiss property market has experienced one of the most benign corrections globally, with the Swiss Franc continuing to appreciate against the Euro.
Germany: Navigating Through Challenges
Germany faces a more uncertain medium-term outlook due to its bumpy disinflationary journey and reliance on costlier energy sources. "Germany’s energy mix and political instability pose challenges, but there are still opportunities for astute investors. The country’s strong industrial base and export economy can help navigate these headwinds", Andrew Angeli commented. Despite these challenges, the German real estate market remains a critical area of focus for real estate investors such as Zurich.
Southern Europe: Emerging Opportunities
Italy and Spain are emerging as notable markets within Southern Europe. The Eurozone’s falling interest rates are creating favorable financing conditions, supporting real estate investments. "Italy and Spain are leading growth trajectories within the Eurozone, presenting unique opportunities for investors. The logistics and residential sectors, in particular, are benefiting from long-term tailwinds", Andrew Angeli highlighted. The region’s focus on green infrastructure and data centers also aligns with Zurich’s investment strategies.
United Kingdom: Signs of Recovery
The UK real estate market is showing signs of recovery, especially after the first Bank of England interest rate cut last summer. "The momentum in the UK market is encouraging, with listed real estate companies staging a meaningful recovery. We are increasingly confident that direct capital values will turn positive in 2025", said Andrew Angeli. The new government’s focus on fiscal expansion and real wage growth is expected to support the consumer sector and housing market.
United States: A Nuanced Outlook
The U.S. real estate market, the world's largest institutional property market, presents a mixed outlook. "While national politics may not significantly impact property performance, the new administration’s fiscal measures and inflationary policies will influence real estate returns", explained Andrew Angeli. Above-trend growth is expected to stimulate job creation and consumer spending, benefiting traditional real estate sectors like logistics and rental multi-family. However, there is a cautious optimism as bond yields remain volatile and the pace of interest rate change is uncertain.
“We are at a critical inflection point where geopolitical risks and structural changes present both challenges and opportunities. Real estate has attractive risk-adjusted returns, provides an excellent risk diversifier to other asset classes, and generates stable incomes. This is why Zurich allocates about 9% of our Group investments into a diversified real estate portfolio with a focus on prime locations”, said Stephan van Vliet, Group Chief Investment Officer.
“The global real estate landscape is evolving, and our 2025 outlook provides a detailed analysis of capital and occupier market dynamics. By understanding regional nuances and macroeconomic influences, we can make informed investment decisions that drive long-term value”, explained Andrew Angeli, Global Head of Real Estate Research & Strategy and the author of the Outlook.
The full report can be found here.
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