GFH Partners Secures $300 Million in U.S. Student Housing Assets

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

GFH Partners Ltd. (“GFH Partners”), the DIFC-based global asset management arm of GFH Financial Group, has announced the successful acquisition of A-Class purpose-built student housing assets in the United States valued at $300 million.

The assets, now part of GFH Partners’ expanding U.S. student housing platform, bring its total portfolio to over 5,500 beds with an approximate value of $900 million. The properties boast 99% occupancy and are strategically located within walking distance of major public universities enrolling more than 30,000 students annually.

The newly acquired properties include:

• Two assets near the University of North Texas with a combined 859 beds.
• A student housing facility serving the University of Kentucky with 649 beds.
• A development project near the University of Tennessee, expected to add 605 beds upon completion in 2026.

These locations benefit from robust university enrollment growth and limited housing supply, ensuring high occupancy rates and promising rental growth.

GFH Partners collaborated with two esteemed U.S.-based student housing operators on these transactions: SQ Asset Management, headquartered in Atlanta with over 15,000 beds under management, and Vesper Holdings, based in New York with a portfolio exceeding 30,000 beds.

Mr. Nael Mustafa, CEO of GFH Partners, highlighted the strategic importance of these acquisitions, stating:
"These transactions enhance our strong track record in the student housing sector, offering attractive risk-return opportunities to our investors. The demand-supply imbalance at leading public universities with prominent research or sports programs underscores the value of these investments. Our partnerships with SQ and Vesper ensure excellence in managing and executing our vision for this sector."

This latest achievement cements GFH Partners’ position as a key player in the global student housing market, leveraging strategic partnerships and a robust investment approach to deliver sustainable growth.