Norway's Sovereign Wealth Fund Invests in London Property
In a significant move that underscores its confidence in London's real estate market, Norway's sovereign wealth fund, the Government Pension Fund Global (GPFG), has acquired a 25% stake in London's Covent Garden estate for £570 million. This transaction, finalized on March 20, 2025, values the entire Covent Garden estate at £2.7 billion and highlights the fund's strategic focus on premium real estate assets in the UK.
Norway's Growing Footprint in London's Real Estate
Managed by Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), the GPFG is the world's largest sovereign wealth fund, with assets nearing £1.5 trillion. The fund has been progressively increasing its investments in London's prime real estate, reflecting a deliberate strategy to diversify its portfolio and capitalize on the city's enduring appeal.
Prior to the Covent Garden acquisition, the GPFG made notable investments in London's West End. In January 2025, it purchased a 25% stake in a portfolio of 175 buildings in Mayfair from the Duke of Westminster for £306 million. This portfolio includes prominent properties such as the Connaught Hotel and Scott's restaurant.
Additionally, the fund holds significant interests in other prime London locations, including a 25% stake in Regent Street and a 68% share in the Pollen Estate, which encompasses areas like Savile Row and parts of New Bond Street.
The Covent Garden Estate: A Jewel in London's Crown
Covent Garden is one of London's most iconic districts, renowned for its vibrant mix of retail, dining, and cultural attractions. The estate comprises approximately 220 buildings, housing around 850 tenants, including retailers, restaurants, offices, and residential units. The annual rental income from these properties is approximately £104 million, with expectations of growth upon lease renewals.
Shaftesbury Capital, the entity formed by the merger of Shaftesbury and Capital & Counties in 2023, retains the remaining 75% stake and will continue to manage the estate. The proceeds from this sale are earmarked for debt reduction and potential acquisitions, aligning with the company's strategic objectives.
Strategic Implications and Market Confidence
This acquisition by the GPFG is indicative of a broader trend where sovereign wealth funds and institutional investors are increasingly seeking direct ownership of prime real estate assets. Such investments are often viewed as stable and capable of delivering long-term returns, especially in globally significant cities like London.
The deal also reflects a notable confidence in the resilience and future prospects of London's property market, despite broader economic uncertainties and the challenges posed by fluctuating interest rates. The GPFG's continued investments suggest a belief in the enduring value and appeal of London's prime real estate.
Conclusion
Norway's sovereign wealth fund's acquisition of a substantial stake in Covent Garden underscores its strategic commitment to investing in high-quality, income-generating real estate assets. This move not only enhances the fund's global portfolio but also signals robust confidence in London's status as a premier destination for long-term property investment.
