Opinion: The private credit paradox

Source: FinanceAsia
Author: Roushana Sjahsam
Date: 18 November 2025

Despite criticism, Roushana Sjahsam, Asean senior board adviser at investment firm Zagga, argues private credit is an emerging asset class for defensive, yield-seeking investors, who want diversification, stable income, and portfolio resilience.

Roushana Sjahsam, a senior board adviser, Asean, at investment firm Zagga, has shared an opinion piece with FinanceAsia. Zagga is a real estate private credit manager investing in Australian commercial property opportunities.

Sjahsam (pictured) wrote: The convergence of global trade tensions, escalating military conflicts, and geopolitical uncertainty has created an increasingly turbulent investment environment. Investors across the Asean region are adopting defensive strategies and turning to safe haven asset classes, like private credit, which can offer stability amidst volatility.

This article is for information purposes only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Any opinion expressed in this article are of the author and is subject to change without notice. Readers are reminded to exercise caution and use their own judgment when interpreting and applying the information contained in this article.

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Zagga Market Pty Limited (Australian Credit Licence 490904) ACN 611 662 401 acts as the Servicer of loans acting on behalf of the credit provider, Zagga Investments Pty Limited (AFSL 492354) ACN 615 154 786, trustee of the Zagga Investments Lending Trust

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All portfolio numbers quoted correct as at 1 October 2025.

*Average investor return across the active portfolio as at 1 October 2025.

**Target return is after expenses and any applicable management fees for the year ended 30 June 2026. OCR = Australian Reserve Bank Official Cash Rate.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance and investments are subject to investment risk, fees and costs. Returns are not guaranteed.

Prospective investors wishing to invest in a Zagga direct investment or a Zagga Fund should fully consider the Information Memorandum, ZFF Fact Sheet and/or ZWF Brochure, available from Zagga, before applying to invest. Investments are subject to risks.

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