Investors Shifting Strategies in Global Real Estate
In recent findings, it is evident that investors are changing their approach to global real estate markets. A new report by Colliers, a renowned global diversified professional services firm, indicates a significant shift as investors exhibit renewed confidence. This Comprehensive Global Investor Outlook shows that market conditions are improving, liquidity is returning, and pricing expectations are beginning to normalize, fostering a strong sense of optimism for the future even amidst ongoing costs and geopolitical uncertainties.
Luke Dawson, the Head of Global and EMEA Capital Markets at Colliers, noted, “Investors are changing gears. After a challenging period, capital is moving decisively toward stability and opportunity. Hands-on, controlled strategies and partnerships are driving value as the market regains its footing.” His insights highlight the evolving preferences that are reshaping how investors engage with global investment opportunities.
Active Investment Strategies Gain Traction
Direct Investments and Joint Ventures
The report sheds light on a notable trend where nearly half of the investors (49%) currently prefer direct investments alongside separate accounts. As the market develops, platform joint ventures and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are becoming important avenues for capital allocation. Furthermore, private equity and secondary funds are making significant investments in property-owning entities and operational businesses, indicating a shift toward more active investment strategies.
Investor Preferences and Market Discrepancies
Interestingly, the report highlights that while 37% of investors are inclined towards core and core-plus strategies, only 9% of fundraising activities are directed at these areas. This discrepancy suggests a misalignment between investor appetite and the types of funds available in the market. Damian Harrington, Colliers’ Director and Head of Research for Global Capital Markets and EMEA, elaborated on this by stating, “This imbalance is prompting investors to rethink how they engage with the market, seeking structures that allow for faster execution and scalability. Platform deals provide investors with more control and quicker access to opportunities.”
Emerging Trends in Global Allocations
As capitalization opportunities evolve, the report indicates a notable restructuring in global allocations, with multi-regional strategies comprising nearly 30% of global fundraising. Interestingly, North America represented about 40% of this fundraising in the recent period, although this is a reduction from 50% in the previous year. Conversely, Europe’s fundraising efforts surged impressively by 50%, and investment interest in Asia Pacific rose dramatically by 130% year-on-year. Such shifts reflect investors' growing interest in diverse markets, particularly in countries like Japan, Australia, and India.
Technological and Sector-Specific Investments
Data Centres and Office Space Rebound
One of the standout findings is the remarkable rise in investments directed toward data centres, which captured approximately 31% of global real estate investments from Q1 to Q3 of 2025, making it the second-most favored asset type. Following a pandemic-induced slowdown, the office sector has shown signs of resurgence globally, as firms adapt to changing workplace dynamics. Additionally, investments in alternative assets, such as student housing and healthcare facilities, are gaining momentum, driven by demographic shifts and supply-demand pressures.
Resilience in Industrial, Multifamily, and Retail Sectors
Industrial, multifamily, and retail sectors continue to thrive and attract investor interest. Investors are emphasizing logistics hubs, urban residential growth corridors, and retail formats that feature essential services, showing resilience in these markets despite broader economic challenges.
Focus on Value Creation and Sustainability
Repositioning Existing Assets
A significant aspect of the evolving investment landscape is the focus on value creation. Many investors are aiming to repurpose existing assets, especially in markets with limited supply. The rising costs of construction and operations have accelerated the trend toward adaptive reuse. Office spaces are being renovated to meet sustainability standards and cater to the changing needs of tenants, with regions across APAC and Europe leading this important movement.
Strategic Execution and Regional Adjustments
Dawson concluded with an insightful perspective on the future: “The year ahead will reward those who combine speed with strategy. We’re witnessing a redefinition of capital deployment, where tactical execution, platform control, and regional adjustments are driving investment flows. The emphasis is shifting towards value creation, operational efficiency, and long-term market resilience across various sectors.”
Highlights from Key Regional Markets
With investments moving dynamically across the globe, here are highlights from key regions:
- United States: A resurgence in activity is noted in multifamily, industrial, and data center sectors due to pent-up capital and attractive valuations.
- EMEA: Europe remains a central hub for global capital, especially within the office and industrial sectors, buoyed by improving liquidity.
- APAC: Demand for office, logistics, and developing alternatives like data centres continues to increase amid positive growth projections.
- Canada: The appeal as a safe haven and supply bottlenecks in multifamily and retail sectors are rebuilding investor confidence in this market.
Contacting Colliers can offer further insights, as they provide a wealth of information about current trends and strategic recommendations for investors navigating the complex global real estate landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of Colliers' 2026 Global Investor Outlook?
The report emphasizes the renewed confidence among investors in the global real estate sector, indicating improving market conditions and a shift towards diversification.
What trends are investors currently favoring?
Many investors favor direct investments and platform joint ventures, as well as strategies that offer flexibility and quick execution in capital deployment.
How much of the global fundraising is directed towards multi-regional strategies?
Multi-regional strategies account for nearly 30% of global fundraising, showcasing a significant push towards diversification.
Which asset types have seen a rise in investment?
Data centres have become increasingly popular, accounting for 31% of global real estate funds raised, alongside a notable recovery in office investments.
What does the future hold for the global real estate market?
Investors are expected to prioritize strategies focusing on value creation, operational efficiency, and long-term market resilience moving forward.
