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Financial results

Emira’s capital recycling supports half-year gains

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Emira Property Fund (JSE: EMI) reported a stable set of results for the six months ended 30 September 2025 reflecting consistent strategic execution and disciplined capital allocation toward higher-yielding, value-accretive opportunities.

 Emira declared a cash-backed final dividend of 64.40cps, 3.2% higher than the prior half year. Its net asset value per share increased 1.4% over the six-month period that saw the company make measurable progress on each of its key objectives and deliver improved operational metrics. The half-year results indicate that Emira continues delivering long-term value for all stakeholders.

James Day, CEO of Emira Property Fund, credits the positive results to the steady outperformance of Emira’s South African assets, supported by a stable and gradually improving environment, driven by steady interest rates, reduced load shedding and moderate inflation. Additionally, its US portfolio remains robust, and Emira’s strong entry into the Polish real estate market is yielding returns.

Emira is a South African Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) with a diversified portfolio across sectors and geographies. In South Africa, it holds direct commercial – retail, industrial, office – and residential property portfolios. It also recently acquired stake in listed REIT SA Corporate Real Estate. Internationally, Emira invests indirectly through equity interests alongside specialist co-investors. In the US, it holds influential stakes, ranging between 45% and 49%, in 10 dominant, grocery-anchored centres with US-based partner The Rainier Group. In Poland, Emira has a 45% equity stake in DL Invest, a Luxembourg-headquartered developer and long-term investor in industrial and logistics centres, mixed-use offices, and retail parks located across Poland.

“Our diversified portfolio of direct and indirect property investments supports resilient returns across market cycles. Emira continues to be well-capitalised with a prudently managed financial position, and our capital recycling strategy continues to strengthen the balance sheet,” says Day.

Interest cover improved to 2.7 times and the loan-to-value ratio improved to 35.6% from 36.3% over the six months. In October 2025, GCR reaffirmed Emira’s long-term and short-term credit ratings of A(ZA) and A1(ZA) respectively, with a stable outlook, reflecting a diversified funder base and trusted funding relationships.

Improved South African portfolio metrics

 Emira’s South African direct property portfolio comprises 56 properties, valued at R9.3bn. The portfolio’s fair market value, adjusted for disposals, increased 1.2%. The commercial portfolio of 41 assets is balanced across urban retail (50%), office (23%) and industrial (14%), driven by improved performance metrics across all sectors. The residential portfolio (13%) comprises 2,203 units across 15 properties owned by Transcend Residential Property Fund, a wholly owned subsidiary focused on quality, value-oriented suburban rental units.

“Commercial portfolio valuations were positively influenced by improved sentiment in the South African market and more resilient underlying fundamentals,” notes Day.

 Commercial vacancies decreased to 3.8% from 6.4% over the six months mainly due to a single industrial tenant reoccupying its space. Vacancies in all sectors were well below national sector benchmarks, signalling sustained tenant demand for Emira’s properties and effective leasing strategies. Office vacancies in the primarily P- and A-grade portfolio continued showing improvement, closing at 8.0%, down from 8.4%. Retail vacancies remained low, although slightly up at 4.8% from 4.2%, while in the high-demand industrial portfolio, vacancies reduced to 0.4% from 7.9%. Weighted average rental reversions improved in all sectors and rose into positive territory, up by 0.6%, in the retail portfolio.

Residential portfolio occupancies were higher at 98.3%, excluding units for sale, ahead of the Rode national average of 94.4%, with solid underlying demand supporting performance and contributing to consistent, modest rental growth.

Growth-backed capital recycling

 Emira’s capital recycling strategy includes selectively divesting non-core or mature assets, which creates liquidity to invest in high-yielding, value-accretive opportunities. During the six months, Emira disposed of a non-core industrial property and 1,144 residential units for total proceeds of R746.3m. A further R405.7m of properties were under sale agreements when the period closed.

Emira allocated R33.4m to targeted upgrades in its commercial portfolio and R10m in the residential portfolio. “These investments protect and prolong asset value, maintaining quality standards, occupancy appeal and compliance,” notes Day.

Deploying liquidity achieved through its disposal programme, through on-market transactions Emira acquired a 6.4% equity interest in SA Corporate during the period for R497.1m, which at 30 September 2025 was valued at R523.7m based on the share’s closing spot rate.

Emira’s equity stake in SA Corporate contributed R13.0m to the period’s distributable income.

“The SA Corporate investment aligns with Emira’s strategy of investing in quality, undervalued assets. It’s well diversified and defensive property portfolio, anchored on resilient retail and residential assets, offers strong fundamentals and reliable cash flows,” comments Day. Emira has since invested a further R187.9m in SA Corporate, taking its total equity interest to 8.7%.

International strategy reinforced by performance in the US and Poland

 International investments are 37% of Emira’s portfolio, by value, with 14% in the US and 23% in Poland.

Emira’s US portfolio opened the period with 11 assets of R2.7bn (USD145.4m). After the successful sale of University Town Centre following an approach by a co-investor, creating the opportunity to unlock liquidity at a small premium to book value, the US portfolio closed the period with 10 investments totalling R2.2bn (USD129.6m). Two properties, Moore Plaza and Dawson Marketplace, are under contracts for sale. The US portfolio held its value, which is expected to remain steady for the full year.

The US investments continued to perform well supported by sound property fundamentals and a high-quality tenant base. Strong leasing activity and consistent tenant demand improved vacancy levels to 2.8% from 4.6%. New leases were signed at an average lease duration of 7.0 years, extending the portfolio’s weighted average lease expiry to 4.6 years from 4.2 years. Rental reversions remained slightly positive at 0.4%.

Emira’s US equity investments contributed R89.8m to its half-year distributable income.

In August 2024, Emira began its investment in DL Invest and it held its full 45% stake in DL Invest for the entire period. “We’re encouraged by DL Invest’s performance since our investment, especially its strong execution of strategy. Emira’s investment has laid a solid foundation for the strategic, long-term collaborative partnership with DL Invest, which also positions Emira to access potential future opportunities in Poland,” Day notes.

DL invest has established a strong position in the Polish market through its integrated business model, diversified portfolio and consistent financial performance. Its portfolio of 39 income-generating properties was valued at EUR687.5m at 30 September 2025. The portfolio comprises 67% industrial and logistics, 22% mixed-use/office and 11% retail parks. It maintained a total vacancy of 3.0% and a stable weighted average lease expiry of 5.2 years. DL Invest’s land and properties under development had a combined carrying value of EUR189.8m, providing a growth pipeline. During the period, DL Group successfully listed EUR350m Eurobond on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange, following a successful issuance oversubscribed by institutional investors.

Emira earned EUR3.62 million (R74.9m at the average EUR/ZAR exchange rate) from DL Invest for the period, which was added to distributable income.

Long-term value from strategic capital deployment

“We will continue to direct recycled capital towards meaningful, value-accretive opportunities to grow value for all shareholders,” concludes Day.

Distributable earnings rise as Dipula reopens its growth pipeline

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Dipula Properties (JSE: DIB) has delivered a robust set of results for the year ended 31 August 2025, showcasing sustained strategic progress and operational strength. The company’s second half performance outpaced the first half, driving a full-year increase of 5% in distributable earnings. This translated to full-year distributable earnings per share of 57.26 cents for the year

Izak Petersen, CEO of Dipula Properties, highlights that Dipula’s results reflect prudent capital allocation backed by rigorous asset management, financial and operational discipline, and the reignition of acquisitive growth.

“As a proud South African business, Dipula draws strength from the remarkable resilience of our people, who possess a distinctive talent for spotting opportunities, unlocking value and turning challenges into success, even in a tough operating environment. The Dipula team has done well to deliver strong performance with a positive set of results that further reinforce our firm foundation for future growth,” comments Petersen.

Dipula remains optimistic about its prospects, supported by a real estate sector in early recovery, fuelled by easing inflation, lower interest rates, some improvement to national political and policy stability, and a more stable electricity grid. Dipula is expecting continued growth in distributable earnings of 7% for its 2026 financial year.

Dipula Properties (formerly Dipula Income Fund) is a prominent, diversified South Africa-focused REIT that has been delivering sustainable investment returns, generating long-term value for stakeholders for 20-years, with nearly 15 of those as a listed entity. The company generates 67% of its income from retail properties defensively positioned with retail centres in townships, rural, and urban convenience locations. It also has a core portfolio of logistics and industrial assets (13% of income), office assets (16%), and a small non-core residential property portfolio (4%). Dipula is invested across South Africa, but its portfolio is predominantly in Gauteng.

Supported by improved property fundamentals and Dipula’s proactive asset management, the property portfolio increased in like-for-like value by 6% to R10.8 billion, and 10% for retail, buoyed by higher income prospects and supporting a 7.5% rise in net asset value. Dipula’s revenue, excluding straight-lining, increased 4% to R1.517 billion. Net property income rose 3.0%.

Cost control continues to be a management priority, and the total cost-to-income ratio of 43.2% (FY24: 42.6%) reflected a marginal increase due to inflation-driven property expense increases and the effect of lower office rental renewals achieved the previous year. Demonstrating continued cost discipline at corporate level, the administrative cost-to-income remained stable at below 4%.

Operational highlights included significant leasing activity, with retail portfolio vacancies reducing to 5%, even though total portfolio vacancies edged up slightly from 7.5% to 8.5% during the year, mainly due to short-term dynamics in highly lettable properties in the office and industrial portfolios.

Dipula achieved a weighted average positive renewal rental rate across the portfolio of 0.6%, a significant improvement over the -9.7% for FY24. New and renewed leases concluded during the period amounted to R801 million, securing sustainable income streams.

Discussions are currently in advance stages for Dipula’s clearly telegraphed intention to sell its affordable and conveniently located residential rental units, which currently represent 4% of income and showed reduced vacancies from 12% to 6% during the year. The planned disposal will see Dipula re-allocate capital to the retail and industrial sectors that are core to its business.

Driving its active capital recycling, Dipula disposed of R200 million of non-core properties during the year, substantially higher than R37 million of the prior financial year. Proceeds contributed to repaying debt and funding value-enhancing asset management strategies, quality-improving acquisitions and sustainability initiatives.

Dipula invested R214 million in refurbishments and redevelopments designed to drive income growth, which is a 37% increase over the prior year. A further R170 million is planned for the 2026 financial year, enhancing already successful core assets.

Returning to acquisitive growth this year, Dipula finalised five strategic acquisition agreements in August 2025 totalling approximately R700 million, at a total average weighted yield of 10%. The largest of these was the R480 million purchase of Protea Gardens Mall in Soweto, a 24,000sqm community shopping centre. This asset is an excellent strategic fit for Dipula’s strategy, offering embedded growth and value creation potential, supported by a strong tenant base with over 70% national retailers and a growing consumer market. Together with two additional acquisitions to deepen the company’s footprint in key, proven markets, these retail investments underscore Dipula’s commitment to community upliftment by providing accessible, everyday shopping experiences.

In line with Dipula’s capital allocation strategy focused on high-quality mid-sized logistics and industrial assets, a core component of its growth plan, Dipula also secured two industrial properties with strong tenant profiles. It agreed to acquire a newly developed, state-of-the-art distribution centre of over 16,000sqm in Klerksdorp, leased long-term to blue-chip multinational Bayer. Additionally, Airborne Industrial Park, a fully let multi-tenant complex of 6,964sqm located near OR Tambo International Airport, transferred ownership in August 2025.

The transactions are also being funded, in part, by Dipula’s oversubscribed September 2025 equity raise of R550 million.

Dipula integrates ESG principles into every aspect of its operations, driving transparency, reducing environmental impact, and fostering community and social value through sustainable investments and stakeholder engagement. Key initiatives this year included expanding rooftop solar capacity, enhancing energy efficiency, waste and water management, and supporting employee development and community projects.

The REIT invested R54 million in solar PV installations during the year, bringing its installed solar capacity to approximately 6MWp. An additional 10MWp of new solar projects are slated for completion in the first quarter of 2026. While there’s still progress to be made, the results show that Dipula has started its sustainability journey in earnest. Emissions avoidance increased by 240% compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, the share of green energy consumed in its portfolio more than doubled, rising from 2% to 5%.

“Dipula’s capital allocation will see us staying true to our strategy by growing and enhancing the quality of properties in our retail portfolio, increasing exposure to logistics and industrial properties, and advancing our sustainability programmes. We are actively evaluating a strategic pipeline of promising growth opportunities within this core focus,” says Petersen.

Dipula benefits from a strong balance sheet and has maintained prudent debt levels. Gearing reduced to 34.9% compared to 35.7%, and a steady ICR of 2.8 times at year end reflects a consistently well-managed balance sheet. Post year-end gearing had reduced to 29%.

Late last week (5 November 2025), Dipula was named the number one company in the prestigious Sunday Times Top 100 Companies Awards, purely on merit assessed through rigorous financial performance criteria that identify those companies earning the most for shareholders. Eligible companies must be JSE-listed with minimum market capitalisation of R5 billion as at 31 August 2025, trade at least R20 million in volume, and have at least five years of trading history. Rankings are determined by the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of a hypothetical R10,000 initial investment at the closing share price on 31 August 2020, held for five years to 31 August 2025.

Dipula proudly achieved a compound annual growth rate of 57%, delivering a total return of 854%. This means R10,000 invested in Dipula in September 2020 was worth R95,424 as at 31 August 2025.

Looking ahead, Petersen notes the South African real estate sector has seen meaningful improvement recently with more to come, and this could accelerate should there be improvements to the persistent local government inefficiencies that are posing material risks and structural constraints to sector growth.

“We remain optimistic about South Africa and the property sector’s outlook, while being realistic about the challenges we face. Dipula will continue focusing on growing our presence in defensive retail and industrial assets through strategic capital allocation, disciplined operations and active hands-on management,” says Petersen.

 

Stor-Age grows portfolio to 109 properties

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STOR-AGE GROWS PORTFOLIO TO 109 PROPERTIES AND DELIVERS STRONG OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL UPDATE

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Interim dividend of 59.74 cents per share, up 4.5% year-on-year
  • Distributable income of 66.37 cents per share, up 4.5% year-on-year
  • Rental income up 8.7%, same-store occupancy up 3 500m² and net investment property value up 6.4% to R12.2 billion
  • Closing occupancy 90.6% (92.1% SA; 85.2% UK)
  • JV portfolio occupancy up 15 800m² (SA 9 300m²; UK 6 500m²), including same-store growth of 9 200m² (SA 4 700m²; UK 4 500m²)
  • SA REIT NAV per share up 6.9% year-on-year to R17.25
  • Loan-to-value ratio of 30.9% and 78.8% of net debt subject to interest rate hedging
  • Property portfolio comprises 1091 trading stores (SA 63; UK 46), with the total portfolio including developments exceeding 700 000m² GLA
  • Development pipeline of 78 000m² GLA, with 19 projects at various stages of planning and completion
  • Acquired Lock Up Storage in KZN in October 2025 for R95 million, with 11 400m² GLA across two properties
  • Construction commenced at Bramley (Johannesburg) in June 2025 at a total development cost of R91 million
  • Development scheduled to begin in 2026 of new SA flagship property at De Waterkant (Cape Town foreshore) at a total development cost of R155 million (excl. land)
  • Two new properties secured for development in Cape Town
  • New Storage King Exeter management contract secured in September 2025
  • Development of the new Hines-owned Storage King Chelmsford (South East England) commenced (7 000m² GLA) – third-party developer-operator model
  • 2030 Property Strategy targeting 90 properties in SA and 70 properties in the UK
  • Guidance reaffirmed for FY26 distributable income per share to be approximately 5% to 6% higher year-on-year

JSE REIT Stor-Age, South Africa’s leading and largest self-storage property fund, maintained its resilient financial performance for the twelve months to September 2025. The Group continues to strengthen its market-leading position and maintain its track record of consistent earnings growth.

November 2025 marked the ten-year anniversary since Stor-Age listed on the JSE, where the Company became the first self-storage REIT to be listed on an emerging market exchange globally and the first, and still only, of the real estate “alternatives” to be listed on the local stock exchange. The past decade has been characterised by a consistently strong operational and financial performance, and substantial portfolio expansion, reflecting the Group’s disciplined and highly successful execution of its multi-year strategic growth plans.

Stor-Age CEO Gavin Lucas comments, “During the past decade Stor-Age has consistently delivered on its strategic objectives, expanding the portfolio across South Africa and the UK, and delivering consistent earnings growth. Since the listing in 2015, we have continued to outperform both the JSE All Share Index (ALSI) and the JSE All Property Index (ALPI), expanding our portfolio from a value of R1.3 billion to R13.6 billion and the number of properties from 24 to 109.

Assuming R100 was invested on the date of our listing in November 2015 and provided that the full pre-tax dividend was reinvested, an investment in Stor-Age would be worth R360.88 at the end of October 2025. The same investment in the ALSI and in the ALPI would be worth R303.27 and R113.15 respectively. Over the past decade that we’ve been publicly traded, that translates into a significant 173% outperformance of our sector benchmark, the ALPI. A pleasing result and one that we are proud of.”

For the six months to 30 September 2025, Stor-Age delivered another strong trading performance, achieving revenue and occupancy growth, with the Group growing its distributable income per share of 65.87 cents 4.5% compared to the prior year. Executing the Company’s latest five-year property strategy to 2030, Stor-Age expanded its portfolio to 109 properties (SA: 63; UK 46) and increased the combined value of the portfolio, including properties managed in JV partnerships, to R18.7 billion.

The South African portfolio remains operationally strong, delivering year-on-year growth of 9.8% in rental income and 10.6% in net property operating income on a same-store basis.

While trading conditions in the UK were more challenging during the period, the Company continued to deliverer on all key metrics relative to its UK listed peers. During the period, same-store rental income increased by 2.5%, with occupancy closing at 85.2%, and increasing by 1 400m² compared to 31 March 2025.

Since the JSE listing in 2015, through a combination of acquisitions and developments, the South African portfolio has grown at an average of 3.4 new trading properties per year and the UK portfolio four since Stor-Age’s strategic market entry into the UK in 2017. Combined, it translates into an attractive overall portfolio growth rate of an average of more than seven properties per annum since 2017. The Group’s 2030 property strategy, the fourth iteration since 2010, aims to expand the South African portfolio to 90 properties and the UK portfolio to 70 properties.

Stor-Age continues to make excellent progress in executing its UK growth strategy. In June 2025 the Company opened a new £25 million property in Acton, West London in its JV with Moorfield. Following Stor-Age entering into a third-party management agreement with Hines in FY25 to manage the acquisition of a three-property portfolio in the UK, the two companies are now working closely on four additional development projects. The first of these properties, located in Chelmford, has commenced development with the store scheduled to open in Q2 FY27. In September 2025, the Company also entered into a third-party management agreement with Time Investments, a specialist investment manager focused on asset-backed, income-producing investments, to manage a property acquired in Exeter, Devon.

In South Africa, the Group made further progress with several acquisitions and new developments, further cementing its sector-leading position in the country. The latest addition to the portfolio was in October 2025, with the Company acquiring two properties operated by Lock Up Storage in KwaZulu-Natal for R95 million. Located in Pinetown and New Germany, the two properties will expand the portfolio by 11 400m2.

In June 2025, construction commenced on a new property located in Bramley, Johannesburg. The development, situated alongside the busy M1 highway, will comprise 5 600m2 GLA with a total development cost of R91 million. In Cape Town, the Company announced that it plans to imminently break ground on a new SA flagship store, a 6 500m2 GLA property in De Waterkant on the foreshore, and located in close proximity to the V&A Waterfront. At a development cost of R155 million excluding land costs, it will be the most expensive self storage property ever developed in South Africa, as well as the tallest at 13 storeys. Construction at the property is expected to begin in early 2026.

Concludes Lucas, “⁠Our South African portfolio continues to deliver strong growth momentum supported by improving macroeconomic conditions, including a more favourable inflation outlook, a stabilising political environment and the prospect of interest rate cuts. These trends underpin a positive outlook for continued performance in the second half of the year. In the UK, trading conditions have been more challenging across the sector than anticipated. We remain focused on driving operational efficiencies, disciplined cost management and further growth of our third-party management platform to enhance long-term resilience and scale. Looking ahead, Stor-Age continues to focus on growth opportunities in both markets while maintaining a conservative capital structure.”

Stor-Age reaffirmed its FY26 full year forecast of distributable income per share growth of 5 – 6%.

The share closed yesterday at R17.55.

Redefine ends FY2025 in stronger shape

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Redefine ends FY2025 in stronger shape as confidence lifts and greylisting exit bolsters outlook

Redefine Properties Limited [JSE: RDF] has reported a solid set of results for the financial year ended 31 August 2025, marking another step in the group’s multi-year transformation journey. The diversified property group delivered a 7.8% increase in distributable income, lifted its operating profit margin by 1.1 percentage points to 76.2%, and reduced its loan-to-value (LTV) ratio to 40.6%, firmly within its target range.

Chief Executive Officer Andrew König says the results confirm that “Redefine ends the financial year in far better shape than we started it, with all key metrics trending positively.”

“We’ve seen property asset values lift by R1.9 billion in South Africa and hold steady in Poland. Our LTV ratio is also back within range. Importantly, we achieved an operating profit margin improvement against a backdrop of only moderate revenue growth, which is testament to the efficiency gains coming through the business,” König explains.

 Confidence returning as SA exits the FATF greylist

König says early signs of rising business and consumer confidence are evident in leasing activity and investor sentiment, supported by the country’s recent removal from the FATF greylist and prospects of a sovereign credit rating upgrade.

“The finalisation of South Africa’s greylisting exit is significant – it will translate into lower costs of capital, attract more foreign investment flows, and further deepen domestic liquidity. We’re already seeing the bond market pricing that in,” he notes.

“Add to that the Reserve Bank’s firm inflation targeting stance and the possibility of a rating uplift next year, and you have the makings of a tangible, rising optimism. Those tailwinds, coupled with Redefine’s strengthened balance sheet, position us well to capture growth as sentiment improves.”

CFO Ntobeko Nyawo agrees that the broader macro turn is set to benefit well-capitalised corporates.

“Our balance sheet is already in a strong position; with an interest-cover ratio of 2.2 times, 83% of debt hedged, and a weighted average cost of debt reduced to 7%. That gives us flexibility to fund growth while maintaining liquidity prudence.”

 Portfolio quality and diversification underpin performance

COO Leon Kok says Redefine’s diversified portfolio again proved its resilience, with retail and industrial strength offsetting a still-muted office sector.

“Our portfolio mix really paid off this year. Retail and industrial delivered very pleasing results, offsetting the structural headwinds still facing offices,” Kok explains.

“Operating fundamentals are stabilising, with occupancies up, renewal reversions improving, and asset values across all three sectors showing year-on-year gains. Even office valuations have turned positive on a total-basis view.”

Retail renewal reversions moved into positive territory (1%), and trading densities improved, with tenants’ rental-to-turnover ratios at 7.4%, reflecting sustainable affordability. Industrial vacancies remain negligible at 2.7%, supported by buoyant logistics and warehousing demand.

“Industrial continues to perform exceptionally well,” Kok says. “We’re seeing strong demand, particularly for logistics and warehousing space close to major transport corridors, where constrained supply is pushing rentals higher. Strategically, it’s a sector we’re keen to expand on, especially where we have developable land.”

On the retail front, Kok notes that tenant health remains solid and that the grocer anchors have supported the turnover growth. “We’ve seen marked improvement in their trading performance, which bodes well for the overall retail environment.”

In the office sector, occupancy is stable at 87%, and leasing volumes (at 262,000 m² signed) underscore renewed deal activity.

“Business confidence drives office demand, and the deal activity we’re seeing suggests sentiment is stabilising. Certain nodes, particularly in the Western Cape, have performed exceptionally well as provincial stability and governance continuity have translated into the lowest vacancy levels in the country,” he adds.

“Looking ahead, a swift, peaceful and conclusive local election outcome would be a meaningful catalyst for offices, particularly in Gauteng, by restoring certainty around municipal service delivery and enabling businesses to commit to space.”

 Poland adds growth momentum

Redefine’s Polish platform (EPP), whose retail platform accounts for roughly 28% of group assets, continued to deliver a strong, stable performance. EPP’s core retail portfolio maintained a 99.4% occupancy rate, while European Logistics Investment’s (ELI) logistics operations doubled distributable income contributions to R214 million thanks to rising occupancies (up to 96.8%) and higher market rentals.

“Poland enjoys GDP growth roughly three times that of South Africa and very low unemployment. That’s created a robust consumer market that continues to support our retail and logistics assets,” says König.

“The cost reduction plan implemented at EPP has strengthened operating margins, while self-storage developments under way will double our footprint in that segment. The stability and growth from Poland demonstrate why geographic diversification remains an essential buffer in our group asset portfolio.”

 Balance-sheet strength and disciplined capital management

Nyawo highlights that Redefine’s deleveraging and liquidity initiatives are yielding results.

“We’ve improved our LTV ratio from 42.3% to 40.6%, reduced debt margins in South Africa by 20 basis points, and maintained a well-laddered maturity profile with no near-term refinancing pressure. Liquidity of R6.7 billion gives us room to manoeuvre,” he says.

The group disposed of R1.1 billion of non-core assets during the period while reinvesting a similar amount in upgrades and energy-efficiency projects. Installed solar capacity rose 35% to 58.4 MWp, with a further 8.4 MWp in progress – a 50% increase since 2024.

“Capital recycling remains core to our strategy,” adds Kok. “We’re continuously repositioning and improving the portfolio rather than chasing new developments. Our active asset management focus keeps our assets relevant and enhances income resilience.”

 Sustainability and long-term value creation

“Nine of our buildings are now net-zero, and both our South African and Polish portfolios achieved strong GRESB scores of 81, reflecting our consistent ESG performance. For us, sustainability and operational resilience go hand-in-hand – they underpin portfolio quality and investor confidence,” König says.

 Outlook: disciplined optimism

König notes that while Redefine’s share price has delivered a 310% total shareholder return over five years, this recovery reflects more than market momentum – it underscores the success of a focused strategic reset.

“When COVID hit, our share price fell sharply, so part of that growth is off a low base. But what really matters is how fundamentally the business has transformed since then,” he says. “Five years ago, our strategy was scattered across multiple geographies and asset classes. Today, we’re focused, disciplined, and in control of every asset we manage. That focus has changed how Redefine looks and feels, and it shows in our performance.”

Looking ahead, Redefine expects distributable-income-per-share growth of 4 to 6% in FY2026.

“We remain committed to disciplined capital allocation for sustainable growth – improving portfolio quality, simplifying our international joint ventures, and maintaining a strong balance sheet,” says König.

“Moderating inflation and improving liquidity all point to a more constructive operating environment. If we maintain this trajectory, we’ll continue delivering inflation-beating capital and income growth for shareholders.”

Spear REIT posts inflation-beating HY2026 growth

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Regional focus pays off as Spear REIT posts inflation-beating HY2026 growth

Spear REIT delivered a strong set of interim results for the six months ended 31 August 2025, supported by stable operational and financial performance, disciplined capital allocation, and continued portfolio growth. The results reflect a period of measured expansion and strategic investment, with Spear remaining the only regionally focused REIT on the JSE, operating exclusively within the Western Cape.

 Key Highlights – HY2026

  • HY26 DIPS growth vs prior period: 5.21%
  • HY26 DPS growth vs prior period: 5.21% (based on 95% payout ratio)
  • Interim distributable income per share: 43.78 cents
  • Interim distribution per share: 41.59 cents (95% payout)
  • Portfolio value: R5.7 billion
  • Portfolio GLA: 487 317 m²
  • YTD collection: 98.96%
  • Occupancy: 95.03%
  • LTV: 13.85%
  • TNAV: R12.10 per share

CEO Quintin Rossi said the first half of the 2026 financial year demonstrated Spear’s ability to balance growth and stability while delivering strategy-aligned outcome from the core portfolio.

“Our exclusive Western Cape focus is a deliberate strategy – it gives us deep local market insight, agility in execution, and the ability to be in close proximity to our assets and tenants,” Rossi said. “The region’s economic resilience, governance quality, and sustained demand for real estate solutions from drivers of economic activity across the board continue to underpin the performance of the core portfolio.”

During the period, Spear concluded R1.074 billion in strategic acquisitions — namely Berg River Business Park (Paarl), Consani Industrial Park (Elsies River), and Maynard Mall (Wynberg). The transactions add over 137 000 m² of additional GLA and will take Spear’s total portfolio to around 624 000 m² once transfers are finalised between October 2025 and January 2026. Acquired at an average yield of 9.54%, all three assets are accretive, meet Spear’s strict investment criteria, and will contribute immediately to distributable income once transferred.

Rossi added: “These acquisitions further strengthen our industrial and retail exposure – sectors where we continue to see consistent tenant demand and strong rental growth potential. Our focus remains on high-quality, cash-generative assets that align with Spear’s long-term distribution and value growth objectives which may also include further portfolio acquisition opportunities within the region.”

Spear’s occupancy rate remained firm at 95.03%, supported by collection rates of 98.96%. Portfolio valuations increased by R107 million, reflecting a 2% uplift over the period. Rental reversions were positive at 1.31%, signalling sustained tenant confidence across the portfolio.

By February 2026, 67% of Spear’s portfolio will be equipped with embedded PV solar infrastructure in line with Spear’s sustainability strategy as the business seeks to place less reliance on fossil-fuel-generated electricity supply whilst harnessing the attractive rate of returns its PV solar portfolio generates.

The company’s loan-to-value ratio of 13.85% and R749 million equity raise in June 2025 provides Spear with dealmaking capacity while maintaining a conservative balance sheet profile.

“Our prudent capital structure gives us flexibility to pursue growth opportunities while maintaining distribution sustainability,” Rossi said. “Liquidity and investor confidence have improved meaningfully, with Spear now trading at one of the narrowest discounts to Net Asset Value in the South African REIT sector.”

In the broader context, the South African REIT market has remained resilient through 2025, with the sector delivering a 14% total return year-to-date, supported by moderating inflation and stable interest rates.

Within this landscape, Spear’s focused Western Cape strategy and consistent DIPS growth position it ahead of sector averages, and it is well-placed to capture ongoing regional upside.

Spear’s long-term strategy remains secured in its Western Cape-only focus, with the REIT aiming to scale to R15 billion in assets under ownership and a market capitalisation of R9 billion over the next decade. Its potential inclusion in the FTSE/JSE All Property Index in March 2026 is expected to further enhance liquidity and institutional participation.

 Outlook

Looking ahead, Spear reaffirmed its FY2026 full-year DIPS growth guidance of 4% to 6%, with a payout ratio maintained at 95%.

“We will continue to prioritise high occupancy, disciplined cost management, and accretive capital deployment,” Rossi concluded. “Our focus is on consistent, predictable growth and delivering long-term value for shareholders through a well-managed, regionally focused portfolio.”

 

Fairvest leads the REIT sector into digital infrastructure

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Fairvest leads the REIT sector into digital infrastructure, enhancing its traditional retail property assets

Fairvest Limited announced more details of its R486 million strategic investment in Onepath Investments, an owner of digital infrastructure assets. Fairvest intends to utilise this investment to enhance its traditional retail properties synergistically, underscoring its credentials as an innovator and incubator for emerging property trends.

 Fairvest CEO, Darren Wilder, said: “Globally, the returns from digital assets underpin some of the best-performing REITs, benefiting from growing structural demand that is not tied to economic cycles. In addition to attractive direct returns, Fairvest’s investment provides us with opportunities to enhance the lives of communities surrounding our retail centres, opens up new areas for expansion, and allows us to engage more deeply with communities, collect data, improve our marketing efforts, and drive foot traffic to our centres.”

South Africa continues to experience an enormous increase in demand for reliable and fast internet. Fibre is the best technology for consumers to access the internet, offering a combination of speed, reliability, and low latency. However, the cost of infrastructure has historically been a limiting factor. There are an estimated 10 to 15 million homes in South African townships, with households earning less than R5 000 per month, whose internet needs are currently inadequately serviced mainly by mobile operators through more expensive and less effective connectivity.

Fairvest’s investment in Onepath Investments (OPI) has funded the acquisition of fibre and related infrastructure leased to fibertime™, a proven fibre network operator and internet service provider, catering specifically to South Africa’s township market. fibertime™’s pay-as-you-go model offers fast fibre internet (uncapped 100Mbps) for only R5 per device per 24 hours and includes free equipment and installation.  Through this investment, Fairvest, through OPI, has enabled fibertime™ to provide fast, uncapped pay-as-you-go internet connectivity to lower LSM customers and communities, helping to unlock the untapped potential of South Africa’s township fibre market. fibertime™ aims to reduce costs, enabling more people to access the internet, and in the process, help entrepreneurs build large businesses that can create job opportunities for thousands of young people in townships. In the last three years, fibertime™ has successfully rolled out affordable fibre to more than 200 000 homes in townships and low-income areas nationwide in South Africa.

Fairvest CEO, Darren Wilder, said: “The investment aligns closely with Fairvest’s core retail strategy and target market of serving low-income, high-density communities in under-serviced areas. Serving communities with cost-effective digital access and data solutions is transformative in improving educational and employment outcomes, fostering entrepreneurship, creating business opportunities, and reducing income inequality. As these communities do better, it also enhances Fairvest’s core retail market.”

 Fairvest’s announcement follows its pre-close presentation last week, where the Company lifted its guidance for annual distribution growth per B share to above 10%. Previously, the Company guided for distribution growth of 8%-10%. The increase is due to a substantial improvement in property fundamentals with positive rental reversions of 5.0% (Mar ‘25: 4.3%), and a weighted average built-in escalation of 6.7% (Mar ‘25: 6.6%). The Retail portfolio, representing 71% of the total portfolio by revenue, has demonstrated markedly lower vacancy, a strong improvement in rental reversions, and an increased WALE. The Office portfolio (18% of the total portfolio by revenue) was resilient, continuing to reduce vacancy and increase average gross rentals, while maintaining built-in escalations at 7%. Office WALE reduced modestly. Industrial assets comprise 11% of the total portfolio. Vacancy increased in the industrial portfolio, primarily due to one property; however, the portfolio demonstrated notable improvements in rental reversion, average gross rental per square metre, and built-in escalations. Fairvest’s loan-to-value is expected to be below 30.0% by year-end.

Wilder ended: “Fairvest’s traditional portfolio is positioned for solid growth. Additionally, OPI’s digital infrastructure business is well-positioned for rapid expansion. fibertime™’s potential target market in South Africa is enormous, and to date, all acquisitions have outperformed the projected take-up levels. We are excited about this investment, which has such potential, and expect its strong performance to continue.”