JOHANNESBURG, June 4 – Africa’s wealthiest investors are increasingly turning to real estate as a preferred asset class for preserving wealth, diversifying investment portfolios and generating long-term income streams, according to report released by Africa’s largest lender by assets, Standard Bank.
The trend is particularly evident among individuals with investable assets exceeding $50 million, who are expanding their exposure to both residential and commercial property markets across the continent.
According to Chris Browne, Group Head of Wealth & Investment at Standard Bank Group, demand for real estate among the bank’s ultra-high-net-worth clients has accelerated significantly in recent years as investors seek stable assets capable of protecting capital during periods of economic uncertainty.
In South Africa, acquisitions of residential and commercial properties by the bank’s wealthiest clients more than doubled in the 12 months through September 2025 compared with the previous year.
The increase reflects a broader shift toward tangible assets as affluent investors look beyond traditional investment vehicles such as equities and fixed-income securities.
Property investments are increasingly being viewed as a strategic component of wealth management, offering potential benefits through capital appreciation, rental income and portfolio diversification.
The growing appetite for real estate also comes as investors seek opportunities to hedge against inflation, currency volatility and fluctuations in global financial markets.
Residential properties remain attractive for lifestyle and wealth preservation purposes, while commercial assets continue to appeal to investors seeking stable cash flows and long-term returns.
The trend highlights the evolving investment preferences of Africa’s ultra-rich, who are becoming more sophisticated in their approach to asset allocation and wealth management.
For financial institutions serving high-net-worth clients, the shift presents opportunities to expand property-related advisory services, financing solutions and investment products tailored to affluent investors.
The increase in property acquisitions also signals continued confidence in selected African real estate markets despite broader economic challenges facing parts of the continent.
As wealth creation accelerates across key African economies, real estate is expected to remain an important asset class for investors seeking a balance between capital preservation, income generation and long-term growth.
