Deal strengthens research depth and global reach for Toronto-based real estate investment firm
Hazelview Investments is taking over Presima’s investment management contracts as the two firms formally combine their global REIT operations, a move aimed at strengthening capabilities in a challenging real estate environment.
The transaction, announced Monday (May 4), brings Presima’s investment team into Hazelview, where they will continue managing the same strategies under the new platform. The integration is designed to maintain continuity for clients while expanding the breadth of resources available to them.
The combined business is positioned to offer broader global coverage and more robust analytical depth, leveraging offices across Toronto, New York, Hamburg, and Hong Kong. The firms say the alignment enhances their ability to deliver a wider suite of real estate securities strategies while scaling operations for future growth.
“This transaction brings together two highly complementary REIT platforms to create a deeper, more experienced global investment team, ultimately benefiting all clients, including financial advisors and their clients,” Hazelview’s managing partner and CIO, real estate, Corrado Russo, told WP.
Comprehensive platform
Expanding on the rationale behind the deal, he said the integration is designed to build a more comprehensive platform for investors and advisors alike.
“Hazelview already offers a range of retail-focused REIT strategies and has a long-standing, global institutional client base, and this integration further strengthens that foundation. By combining the Presima and Hazelview REIT platforms, we’re enhancing our research capabilities, expanding coverage across North America, Europe, and Asia, and deepening the bench behind all strategies. Advisors can expect the same institutional-quality approach, with no changes to fees, liquidity, or access, but with the added benefit of a stronger, more globally integrated platform.”
Russo added that, over time, the firm will explore opportunities to broaden its product offering, including within the retail channel.
Marc-André Flageole, managing director of public markets and head of Presima, said the transition gives investors access to a stronger platform without disrupting existing relationships or strategies.
“We are excited to join Hazelview Investments’ platform and accelerate the growth of the strategies our clients trust,” Flageole said. “Clients will get access to a strong platform underpinned by familiar leadership.”
Hazelview said the integration has been carefully planned, with portfolio management, reporting, compliance, and administrative functions expected to transition smoothly.
The deal comes at a time when global real estate markets are facing pressure, prompting investors to seek more diversified and research-driven approaches. By combining Presima’s specialized REIT expertise with Hazelview’s broader infrastructure and scale, the firms aim to create a more competitive offering in the listed real estate space.
Hazelview oversees more than $10 billion in assets and provides access to both public and private real estate strategies. Presima, known for its long-standing focus on listed real estate, brings a track record of developing specialized REIT and real assets strategies tailored to evolving client needs.
