Important security note: Warning of attempted fraud in the name of DWS
We have detected that fraudulent individuals are misusing the "DWS" trademark and the names of DWS employees on the internet and social media. These fraudsters are operating fake websites, Facebook pages, WhatsApp groups and Mobile Apps. Please be aware that DWS does not have any Facebook Ambassador profiles or WhatsApp chats. If you receive any unexpected calls, messages, or emails claiming to be from DWS, exercise caution and do not make any payments or disclose personal information. We encourage you to report any suspicious activity to info@dws.com, including any relevant documents and the original fraudulent email. Additionally, if you believe you have been a victim of fraud, please notify your local authorities and take steps to protect yourself.
2/13/2026
‘Keep calm and carry on’
This phrase, though coined in another era, encapsulates the current sentiment in European real estate as we enter 2026: steady, disciplined, and quietly regaining momentum. After enduring a period marked by interest rate shocks, valuation resets, and a sharp decline in liquidity, the market appears to now be transitioning into a period of normalization. Capital is gradually returning, debt markets seem fully functional, and capital values are rising once more. Nevertheless, the landscape is not without its distractions: geopolitical tensions, trade wars, fears of an AI-driven bubble, and steep yield curves all add complexity. In this environment, it may be prudent to remain level-headed, look for value and consider sticking to long-term trends and thematic investing.
In our view, European real estate appears to be in a strong position. Asset values have undergone a full repricing, bringing valuations to cyclical lows and potentially offering a cushion against potential future shocks. Vacancy rates – particularly for prime, high-quality assets – currently remain low, while new supply is constrained across most major markets. These dynamics may collectively help to de-risk real estate as an asset class, potentially making it an attractive proposition for investors looking for stability and resilience, but also outperformance.
As we are transitioning from an era characterized by ultra-low interest rates to a new reality with higher borrowing costs, this may not necessarily prompt a re-evaluation of investment strategies. Long-term, structural demand drivers are expected to remain broadly unchanged. But identifying thematic investment strategies aligned with long-term structural trends that may meet return requirements could be key – whether its income, alpha or higher risk strategies.