Episode 207: UK Commercial Real Estate – Lending into the Recovery

In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley sits down with Martin Barnwell, Investment Director on the commercial real estate lending team at Aberdeen. Recorded shortly after Stewart's trip to Minneapolis, where commercial real estate lending was a key topic, this episode dives deep into the intricacies of the UK real estate market. Martin shares his journey from Dublin to London, detailing his experiences in real estate debt and the valuable lessons learned along the way.

They discuss the unique aspects of the UK market, the shift from bank-dominated lending to increased participation by insurance companies, and the impact of recent market dislocations. Martin explains how insurance companies are well-positioned to capitalize on current opportunities in commercial real estate lending, emphasizing the benefits of a conservative, investment-grade approach.

Tune in for an insightful conversation on the evolving landscape of commercial real estate lending, the role of insurance in this space, and the promising opportunities that lie ahead. Whether you're an experienced investor or new to the industry, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical insights.