Global Student Accommodation

Our role

Investec has provided Global Student Accommodation ("GSA"), a leading global player in purpose-built student accommodation ("PBSA"), with an £86.5 million refinancing loan secured against a portfolio of five stabilised PBSA assets in England.

The portfolio comprises 1,460 beds across the popular university cities of London, Nottingham, Newcastle, Sheffield and Lincoln, and is managed by GSA's global operating partner, Yugo. Two of the assets have recently undergone targeted refurbishments to update the bedrooms and communal spaces, catering to the evolving needs of students and supporting their wellbeing during university life.

This transaction is the second between Investec and GSA and reaffirms Investec's long-standing commitment to the PBSA sector, as well as demonstrating the bank’s ability to provide flexible and responsive funding solutions through the cycle.

Sebastian Walley at Investec Real Estate, commented: “UK PBSA, where we have a near 15-year lending track record, remains one of our high conviction sectors, and there continues to be strong demand from best-in-class PBSA operators for our tailored financing solutions. Despite economic headwinds, the investment case for UK PBSA remains compelling, driven by global demand for places at our world-renowned higher education institutions.

“This deal further underscores our confidence in the sector’s resilience, whilst aligning with our strategy to increase our lending volumes by writing more large ticket loans.”

John Jacobs, Global Head of Capital Markets at GSA, added: “Investec’s expertise, commitment and focus on supporting high-quality assets and experienced operators make them an ideal partner as we execute our long-term growth strategy. This deal not only reinforces Investec’s position as a leading lender in the PBSA market but also highlights the continued confidence in PBSA as a resilient and attractive asset class.”

About Global Student Accommodation

Global Student Accommodation (GSA) is a leader in real estate asset management within the student housing sector. GSA has an unrivalled international presence, active across eleven countries with assets in 80 of the world’s leading educational cities. It manages $7 billion of AUM and has flagship offices in New York and London.

GSA is part of The Dot Group, a transformational force of market-leading businesses across the global student living economy shaping a better future for students and creating sustainable value for generations to come.

For more information visit https://www.gsagroup.com/