Norway’s Sovereign Wealth Fund Acquires 25% Stake in Covent Garden for £570 Million
The world’s largest sovereign wealth fund deepens its London investments with a major acquisition in the iconic West End estate.
- The £570 million deal secures Norway’s sovereign wealth fund a 25% stake in the £2.7 billion Covent Garden property portfolio.
- The portfolio spans 1.5 million square feet, primarily comprising retail and leisure properties, and includes over 220 shops and cultural landmarks like the Royal Opera House.
- This marks the fund’s second major investment in London this year, following a £306 million stake in Mayfair’s Grosvenor estate in January, bringing its 2025 London investments to £876 million.
- Covent Garden has seen a strong post-pandemic recovery, with record tourism and retail activity, including over 1 million daily visitors during the 2024 holiday season.
- Shaftesbury Capital, the seller, anticipates sustained long-term income and value growth for the estate, supported by its strategic partnership with Norges Bank Investment Management.