The first such real estate vehicle dedicated solely to a DC audience, the Invesco Global Direct Property Fund (GDPF) aims to improve DC investment outcomes by investing in direct global real estate, offering potentially higher returns and a lower risk profile through portfolio diversification and straightforward access to a mainstream global asset class at low cost. 

Importantly, GDPF includes specific and innovative liquidity terms for DC schemes, platforms and master trusts. The launch builds on Invesco’s range of global real estate funds established for different investors worldwide. 

“We have long seen demand among DC schemes to invest in global direct real estate but there have been surprisingly few options for them. The launch of GDPF represents, in our view, a new approach for the DC investor and demonstrates Invesco’s commitment to being a leading provider of investment solutions to UK DC schemes and their members,” said Kate Dwyer, Head of UK Distribution, Invesco. 

“This fund builds on Invesco’s long-term track record in the institutional market and our belief that DC stakeholders deserve the same opportunities as sophisticated institutional investors but with terms aligned to their needs. GDPF not only supports the DC industry’s focus on increasing allocation to alternative asset classes but also the UK Government’s Value for Money consultation.” 

Simon Redman, Managing Director, Head of DC and Wealth at Invesco Real Estate commented: “Improving outcomes for DC members through easily accessible investments in private markets is a key focus for many at the current time. Real estate is by far the largest private markets asset class, but it has not been fully optimised in portfolios. Despite recent macroeconomic news and equity and bond market volatility, real estate as an asset class has continued to offer attractive historic performance and low volatility.” 

Sachin Bhatia, Head of Pensions and EMEA Consultant Relationships at Invesco, added: “GDPF finally gives DC members access to this asset class via a dedicated DC fund, which we believe will improve member outcomes. The fund leverages our £73.8bn real estate business where we have 40 years’ experience and, at its core offering, has an implicit sustainability focus with an explicit business-wide net zero target, which we believe enhances potential returns.” 

You can now read the full press release at the link below