Mubasher: GFH Financial Group has acquired a majority shareholding in Big Sky Asset Management, a US-headquartered real estate asset manager focused on the healthcare sector, according to a press release.

The transaction further expands GFH’s presence across the US and aligns with its focus on promising and defensive markets. It follows an earlier acquisition of a large stake in SQ Asset Management, a US-based leading specialist in student housing, which was announced in May 2022.

Moreover, Big Sky’s acquisition enabled GFH to build a strong footprint in the growing and defensive healthcare market, which made the group one of the early leaders in the region to enter this hub.

Additionally, the deal is expected to reflect positively on the financial company’s income statements.

Big Sky brings over 20-year experience in investing and managing healthcare assets in the US, with more than $2 billion in cumulative transaction value and 130 in medical facilities.

Nael Mustafa, Co-Chief Investment Officer at GFH, commented: “This partnership will further strength our real estate offering and allow us to introduce unique and attractive products to our investors.”

Mustafa added: “Big Sky’s strong track record further complements our strong performance in the US markets and boosts our market know-how.”

“GFH has completed acquisitions of two medical clinics portfolios through a joint venture (JV) with Big Sky that is valued in excess of $800 million as part of our investment strategy of acquiring portfolios of stabilised assets supported by strong market fundamentals and operating growth,” the official noted.

Jason Signor, CEO of Big Sky, said: “Having GFH as a strong partner will enable Big Sky to further offer unique investment opportunities to investors in the US and the GCC.”

Last month, S&P Global Ratings upgraded the long-term issuer credit rating of GFH to ‘B’ from ‘B-’ and maintained its stable outlook.

In the first nine months (9M) of 2022, GFH logged net profits attributable to the equity holders worth $66.23 million, an annual rise of 9.80% from $60.34 million.

It is noteworthy to mention that besides trading on Dubai Financial Market (DFM), the financial group is cross-listed on Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), Bahrain Bourse, and Boursa Kuwait.