Oliver Smiddy

When analyzing debt opportunities, banks are bound to have better data than anyone. As a result, debt funds and other types of lenders must tread carefully.

The firm, best known as a distressed debt investor, is branching out into real estate debt financing with the launch of its latest fund.

Aviva Investors has become the latest group to launch a commercial real estate debt fund focused on opportunities in the UK.

Chris Bates has joined the real estate investment manager from Harville as it seeks to increase its lending footprint beyond the US.

Neil Odom-Haslett joins from Deutsche Pfandbriefbank to lead a push into real estate lending in the UK.

Lawrence Ceriello has joined law firm Morrison Foerster (MoFo) as real estate partner, and will be responsible for representing and advising commercial lenders, investment banks, life insurers, hedge funds on real estate debt transactions .

Pramerica Real Estate Capital III includes a commitment from Dutch pension fund manager APG.

German lender Commerzbank reportedly is being courted by a host of private equity groups interested in acquiring a portfolio of real estate loans worth £5 billon.

PERE's forthcoming sister title, Private Debt Investor, chaired a roundtable hosted by ICG in London late last year to discuss the burgeoning market for alternative debt financing providers.

ICG’s listed real estate debt investment subsidiary has appointed Jack Perry as chairman of its new UK-focused investment vehicle.