Total returns for commercial properties covered by the MSCI Europe Quarterly Property Index reached a new low in the fourth quarter of 2022, surpassing the weakest returns seen during the 2008 global financial crisis.

While the direct market impact of Russia’s invasion has lessened over time, there have been longer lasting effects that have exacerbated investor concerns around inflation, rising rates and central bank actions around the globe. We examine the issue through a multi-asset-class lens.

Markets have partially recovered since Russia invaded Ukraine, but questions remain about inflation, economic growth and central banks’ actions. Understanding last year’s performance across asset classes, may help with investment decisions in 2023.

The MSCI UK Quarterly Property Index posted a quarterly return of -11.9% at the end of 2022, the lowest level since 2008.

European commercial real estate’s returns posted their worst performance since the 2008 global financial crisis in the third quarter. The results indicate that a widespread slowdown in Europe’s commercial-property market is underway.

Analysis of prices paid by investors for offices in London and Paris, Europe’s largest property markets, shows a premium has emerged for buildings that have sustainability ratings such as LEED. 

Global trading of commercial property contracted in the third quarter amid rising interest rates and concerns about economic growth. Deal activity fell by almost one-third compared to a year earlier.

Investors in commercial real estate are confronting the lingering effects of COVID-19 on what being an "office worker" means. We debate the pros and cons of hybrid work and its impact on companies and investors.

The U.K. regained the top spot in Europe for…