Markaz exited over $100mln of industrial real estate projects in the US and Europe over the past few months
Kuwait: Kuwait Financial Centre "Markaz" has announced the recent exit of several industrial real estate projects in the United States and Europe over the past few months. Executed by its International Real Estate team, in partnership with global players like Panattoni and Scannell Properties, the transactions marked successful exits across key global markets, reinforcing Markaz's position as a trusted investment partner and a prominent leader in the international real estate sector. Collectively, these projects represent over USD 100 million in asset value and reflect Markaz's extensive experience in structuring real estate investments across both development and credit strategies.
The exited projects include industrial developments in Europe and the US, and a mezzanine financing investment for an Industrial Portfolio with Scannell Properties in the US. Each investment was selected and executed following rigorous research and market analysis, guided by macroeconomic trends and local market dynamics, with a strong emphasis on safeguarding client interests and delivering stable, long-term returns.
Despite significant economic headwinds and global real estate market repricing, the returns on investment reflect Markaz's deep research capabilities, disciplined investment strategy, and ability to navigate volatility while protecting and growing investor capital. The exited projects highlight Markaz's active role in both real estate development and structured credit strategies.
Commenting on this achievement, Sami Shabshab, Managing Director, International Real Estate at Markaz, said: 'These strategic exits highlight our disciplined investment approach, centered on resilience and long-term fundamentals throughout market cycles. Our recent focus on the industrial sector, driven by sustained demand for logistics and warehousing, has delivered stability and growth despite global uncertainties. We carefully timed these exits to align with market conditions, preserving and enhancing investor value in a complex environment. Our execution capabilities are supported by strong collaborations with international well-established partners, which are essential for effective risk management and project delivery. This combination of sector focus, market insight, and operational collaboration underscores Markaz's commitment to delivering sustainable and resilient returns for our clients.'
Abdullatif Al-Nusif, Managing Director, Wealth Management and Business Development at Markaz, added: "At Markaz, our clients' interests remain at the forefront of every decision we make. The recent exits underscore the strength of our international real estate team in executing complex strategies and identifying strategic opportunities. Building on a 50-year legacy of market insight and disciplined investment strategies, we continue to focus on constructing resilient portfolios that are designed to withstand evolving conditions and deliver sustainable performance. Through selective exposure to high-conviction sectors and proactive asset management, Markaz remains committed to supporting our clients in achieving their financial goals with confidence and clarity.'
Markaz has been an active investor in the US real estate market since 1977 and continues to execute its international real estate investments in the market through Mar-Gulf Management, its international real estate arm, since 1988. Over the past 37 years, Markaz has participated in the acquisition, development, and management of assets across the industrial, storage, retail, residential, and office segments.
Looking ahead, Markaz remains dedicated to adopting a selective, forward-looking investment strategy, focusing on development and value-add opportunities within the industrial and living sectors, while expanding its real estate credit services. Additionally, Markaz will continue to prioritize senior debt and mezzanine structures to optimize capital efficiency and diversify return streams.
With expectations of improving credit conditions and a potentially more favorable interest rate environment in 2025, Markaz aims to position its portfolio for long-term growth. This strategy will emphasize partnerships with high-quality partners and target high-demand markets, ensuring resilient and sustainable performance.
As it marks 50 years of pioneering investment excellence, Markaz remains committed to creating long-term value for its clients through global insight, innovative strategies, and a foundation of trust and performance.
About Kuwait Financial Centre 'Markaz'
Established in 1974, Kuwait Financial Centre K.P.S.C 'Markaz' is one of the leading asset management and investment banking institutions in the MENA region with total assets under management of over KD 1.44 billion (USD 4.67 billion) as of 31 March 2025. Markaz was listed on the Boursa Kuwait in 1997. Over the years, Markaz has pioneered innovation through the creation of new investment channels. These channels enjoy unique characteristics and helped Markaz widen investors' horizons. Examples include Mumtaz (the first domestic mutual fund), MREF (the first real estate investment fund in Kuwait), Forsa Financial Fund (the first options market maker in the GCC since 2005), and the GCC Momentum Fund (the first passive fund of its kind in Kuwait and across GCC that follows the momentum methodology), all conceptualized, established, and managed by Markaz.
For further information, please contact:
Sondos Saad
Corporate Communications Department
Kuwait Financial Centre K.P.S.C. "Markaz"
Email: Ssaad@markaz.com
markaz.com
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
an hour ago
- Khaleej Times
Oil nears $100 as US-Iran escalation fuels market jitters, inflation fears
The US military strike on Iranian nuclear facilities and the widening war in the Middle East have sent fresh shockwaves through global markets, heightening fears of spiralling oil prices, inflationary pressure, and economic disruption. As tensions escalate following Iran's intensified missile attacks on Israel and the sudden US involvement, analysts warn that a full-blown regional conflict could push Brent crude toward the $100 mark, ignite market volatility, and derail the fragile global recovery. India-based maritime analyst and WMC Blue Economy Forum Chairman Nanoo Viswanadhan said the most immediate impact is being felt in the shipping sector. Insurance premiums for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz — a critical maritime chokepoint between Iran and Oman that sees over 20 per cent of global crude oil flow — have jumped more than 60 per cent since the Iran-Israel conflict erupted. 'The cost of hull and machinery insurance has surged from 0.125 per cent to 0.2 per cent of a vessel's value within days, reflecting heightened risk perceptions,' he said. Market watchers said with oil poised to breach new thresholds and inflation risks resurging, the global economy is entering a new phase of uncertainty. 'Whether this crisis triggers another global economic downturn or a geopolitical reset will depend largely on the next steps taken by Iran, Israel, and the US.' Oil prices have already surged by over 18 per cent since June 10, with Brent touching $79.04 per barrel on Thursday — its highest in nearly five months — before dropping to $75.48 at close on Friday. Energy analysts say a sustained rally past $100 could materialise if Iran retaliates by targeting American interests or Gulf oil infrastructure, or disrupts shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. 'Much depends on Iran's next move, but we are now firmly on the edge of a major oil supply shock,' said Saul Kavonic, senior energy analyst at MST Marquee. 'A targeted disruption in Hormuz could set oil soaring past $100.' The International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and OECD have all lowered their global growth forecasts in recent months, citing inflationary risks and geopolitical tensions. Any significant hike in oil and gas prices, they warn, would exacerbate inflation and force central banks to delay or reverse anticipated interest rate cuts. Bloomberg Economics echoed the concern, stating that the Middle East conflict adds an upward impulse to global inflation, just as supply chains and financial markets are starting to stabilise. Financial markets remain on edge, with investors turning to traditional safe havens such as gold and the US dollar. The S&P 500, after a modest drop in the days following Israel's initial strikes on June 13, has remained flat, while cryptocurrency markets have shown sharper reactions. Ether, seen as a proxy for retail investor sentiment, fell 5 per cent on Sunday, bringing its total losses since June 13 to 13 per cent. Investor sentiment is clouded by uncertainty, with many bracing for volatility. 'Markets will be alarmed in the short term. Oil will open higher, and there will be a knee-jerk flight to safety,' said Mark Spindel, CIO of Potomac River Capital. 'We don't yet know the full extent of the damage or Iran's next move. The risk premium is back in global markets.' Steve Sosnick, chief market strategist at IBKR, said the dollar could gain strength amid global anxiety. 'If markets flee to safety, we will see bond yields dip and the dollar strengthen. But equities could react sharply depending on how much further Iran is willing to escalate.' Jamie Cox of Harris Financial Group struck a cautious note of optimism, suggesting that the display of US military might may lead Iran to seek a diplomatic off-ramp. 'With its nuclear capability neutralised, Iran has lost leverage. There's a possibility that they now opt for a face-saving peace deal,' he said. Historically, Middle East crises have prompted temporary market corrections, followed by rebounds. During the 2003 Iraq invasion and 2019 Saudi oil facility attacks, the S&P 500 initially dipped but recovered within months. According to Wedbush Securities and CapIQ Pro, the index was on average 2.3 per cent higher two months after major conflicts began.
Zawya
2 hours ago
- Zawya
Sharjah Chamber, Kazakhstan Consulate discuss strengthening strategic partnerships between private sectors
Sharjah: The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) engaged in discussions with the Consulate General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Dubai and the Northern Emirates to explore ways to enhance economic cooperation and strengthen trade and investment relations between the two countries. The meeting emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships between business communities and private sector institutions to leverage high-potential investment opportunities across diverse industries in both nations. The discussions were held during an official visit by H.E Almaz Tasbolat, Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Dubai, to the Sharjah Chamber's headquarters, where he was received by H.E Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI. The meeting was attended by Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector at SCCI, and Dr. Fatima Khalifa Al Muqarrab, Director of International Relations Department at SCCI, along with several officials from both sides. During the meeting, both sides explored ongoing cooperation between Sharjah and Kazakhstan, focusing on strategies to advance economic ties through the exchange of trade delegations and the coordination of sector-specific exhibitions and events. These efforts aim to facilitate access to investment prospects for companies and investors in both markets. The discussions also highlighted priority sectors that offer strong potential for collaboration, with the real estate sector taking particular prominence. In his remarks, H.E Abdallah Sultan Al Owais reaffirmed the Sharjah Chamber's commitment to enhancing trade and investment relations with Kazakhstan and facilitating high-quality services that support the success of Kazakh enterprises operating in Sharjah. He encouraged Kazakh companies to explore the emirate's investment landscape, highlighting its pro-business regulatory environment, robust infrastructure, and strategic geographic location as key drivers of sustainable growth. For further information, please contact: Ali Elgendy Misbar Communications ali@ Ahmad Aldwairi Misbar Communications
Zawya
2 hours ago
- Zawya
PwC Middle East moving into its smart office building marks the first major handover at One Ninety
LMD welcomes leading global companies to Business Quarter A at One Ninety — its flagship business destination in New Cairo. Cairo, Egypt – Landmark Developments (LMD), one of the leading real estate developers in Egypt, specializing in creating transformative residential and commercial experiences, is proud to announce the delivery of Business Quarter A within its flagship development, One Ninety, in New Cairo. This milestone marks the first operational phase of the $1 billion mixed-use destination, positioning One Ninety as a thriving business and lifestyle hub where ambition, community, and creativity converge to redefine the way we live, work, and connect. With a forward-looking vision and a commitment to operational excellence, One Ninety's Business Quarter sets a new standard for the future of work — where productivity, collaboration, and community come together to empower today's leading enterprises. Business Quarter A is now a base for prestigious global tenants, most notably PwC Middle East in Egypt, which relocated its operations — including 900 employees — to One Ninety. This next-generation office space is designed with well-being, sustainability, and flexibility at its core, featuring uniquely themed rooms like a community garden, a wellness room for yoga and pilates, a library, and a maternity room. The rooftop includes indoor and outdoor seating, play areas, a juice bar, a games zone, and dedicated spaces for casual meetings and breaks. Demonstrating LMD's and PwC Middle East's mutual commitment to sustainability and innovation, the building incorporates motion-sensor lighting, advanced air filtration, noise insulation, and Demand-Control Ventilation (DCV) — a pioneering system that reduces energy consumption by adjusting airflow based on occupancy. PwC Middle East is one of the first offices in the region to install this cutting-edge technology, reinforcing the firm's Net Zero ambitions and aligning with LMD's vision for eco-conscious, future-forward urban development. 'We are proud to deliver Business Quarter A, the first fully operating component of One Ninety,' said Eng. Amr Sultan, Founder and CEO of LMD, 'This milestone is a direct reflection of our mission to create integrated communities that elevate standards of quality, design, and sustainability. Hosting global institutions like PwC Middle East and AAIB in Business Quarter A affirms our position as a developer redefining the real estate experience in Egypt.' 'PwC's presence in Egypt dates back to 1907, marking the start of a long-standing relationship with the country's business community. Over the decades, the firm has evolved to support national growth and development. Today, PwC Middle East in Egypt continues to play a critical role in delivering impact across industries as part of the firm's regional network,' said Maged EzzEldeen, Egypt Country Senior Partner, PwC Middle East. Additionally, the company is preparing to open in Quarter A, near the Arab African International Bank (AAIB), with its new national headquarters spanning a total area of 24,000 m². Meanwhile, Turkish Airlines, Fertiglobe by ADNOC, and the Chalhoub Group will soon begin operations. Complementing the corporate mix, an exciting variety of F&B brands and retail concepts, many of which are debuting in Egypt for the first time, will launch in both Quarter A and the adjacent Quarter D. Located at the strategic intersection of 90 Street and the Ring Road, near the 'One Ninety' monorail station. One Ninety is a fully walkable, thoughtfully master planned community spanning 344,315 square meters, integrating the Business Quarter, Cairo Design District, Urban Park, W Cairo The Residences, and the upcoming W Cairo Hotel — the first of its kind in Egypt and Africa. Construction of W Cairo is on track, with the full structural skeleton set for completion by the end of 2025. With Business Quarter A delivery, LMD reaffirms its leadership in delivering transformative, mixed-use developments that meet the evolving needs of global tenants while contributing to Egypt's future-ready urban growth. About PwC: At PwC, we help clients build trust and reinvent so they can turn complexity into a competitive advantage. We're a tech-forward, people-empowered network with over 370,000 members in 149 countries. Across audit and assurance, tax and legal, deals and consulting, we help build, accelerate and sustain momentum. Find out more at Established in the Middle East for over 40 years, PwC Middle East has 30 offices across 12 countries in the region with 12,000 people. ( PwC refers to the PwC network and/or one or more of its member firms, each of which is a separate legal entity. Please see for further details. © 2025 PwC. All rights reserved
