Stephen Koukoulas kicks off 2026 with cautiously positive news: the economic recovery that emerged in the second half of 2025 “looks to be continuing.” While he emphasises that the pickup is “not a strong economic” surge, conditions are now clearly better than six or twelve months ago.
Zagga concluded the December quarter with $410 million in originations, bringing the FY26 year-to-date total to $663 million. The Zagga Feeder Fund (ZFF) grew by 155% in CY25, now comprising over 85 active investments.
STOCKHEAD & THE AUSTRALIAN
Despite increased attention, real estate private credit currently accounts for less than 20 percent of Australia’s commercial real estate lending market*, compared to more established markets like the US, where it represents 50 per cent of funding.
Yet this story is changing, with Australia now attracting the attention of sophisticated global and domestic capital. Zagga has been a beneficiary of this conviction.
As momentum continues to build, it’s imperative that there is a focus on quality – of managers, projects, and counterparties – to protect investors capital and ensure the sustainability of Australia’s real estate private credit sector.
As the asset class continues to scale, discipline, transparency and consistency are increasingly central to long-term success. Drawing on insights shared by our CEO & Co-Founder, Alan Greenstein in a recent Ausbiz interview, this article explores how Australia’s real estate private credit market is evolving, and what this shift means for borrowers, investors and funders alike.
FS SUSTAINABILITY
Specialist real estate private credit investment manager Zagga has signed onto the UN-backed Principles of Responsible Investing (PRI).
In doing so, Zagga joins a global network of responsible investing advocates, and formalises its commitment to integrating ESG principles into its investment decisions and operational practises.
The Reserve Bank of Australia has delivered its third interest rate cut of 2025, trimming the cash rate by another 25 basis points. Since the start of the year, cumulative rate reductions have begun to pack more of a punch — and the RBA hopes this momentum will help bolster economic growth and prevent unemployment from climbing too far.
At the recent Commercial Property & Development Finance Summit, industry leaders came together to discuss one of the most significant shifts in Australia’s commercial real estate finance — the rapid rise of private credit.
NIKKEI ASIA
Investors hunting for some safe haven income are turning to Australia’s growing real estate sector, boosting companies that help them direct their money into loans to property developers.
The country’s robust but predominantly inwardly focused economy, contained inflation and growing population make it a safe and stable investment destination with lower levels of volatility, according to Zagga, a player in the country’s private real estate credit market.
STOCKHEAD & THE AUSTRALIAN
With ASIC shining a light on fast-growing private markets, finding the sweet spot between regulation and investor protection is critical explains Alan Greenstein, CEO and co-founder of specialist real estate private credit investment manager Zagga.
SUPER REVIEW
Despite easing rates, the Australian private credit market is poised to continue attracting investors seeking stable, income-generating alternatives to traditional fixed-income assets.
We would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands, seas, and communities in which we provide our services. We would also like to pay our respects to the Elders past, present and emerging, and the continuing cultural influence they have on Australia.
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
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.
Articles on this website have been prepared by Zagga Investments Pty Limited (AFSL 492354) ACN 615 154 786 (Zagga) for information purposes only. It doesn’t take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs, nor is it intended as a substitute for any accounting, tax or other professional advice, consultation or service. Nothing in this article shall be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell any financial product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction.
Past performance should not be taken as an indication or guarantee of future performance and no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made regarding future performance. Economic conditions may change.
Any analysis provided in this article is based on information obtained from sources believed to be reliable but Zagga does not make any representation or warranty that it is accurate, complete or up to date. Zagga accepts no obligation to correct or update the information or opinions in it. Any opinions 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 No member of Zagga accepts any liability whatsoever for any direct, indirect, consequential or other loss arising from any use of such information.
