Baker McKenzie Guides SFP Investment Foundation in Major Real Estate Portfolio Transfer
Baker McKenzie has advised the SFP Investment Foundation in the establishment of a new, single-investor investment group for COPRE, which will be managed by the SFP Investment Foundation. This significant move involves the transfer of COPRE's real estate portfolio, valued at approximately CHF 1 billion, which took place in January 2026. This transaction is one of the most notable real estate deals in the occupational pension sector in recent years, highlighting the growing importance of professional and sustainable management practices in the Swiss pension fund market.
With this strategic move, COPRE, one of the largest Swiss joint pension foundations, has entrusted its real estate assets to the Swiss Finance & Property Group. The portfolio being transferred consists of around 70 predominantly residential properties spread across 16 cantons in Switzerland. This transaction significantly bolsters the position of Swiss Finance & Property Group as one of Switzerland’s leading independent real estate asset managers.
Baker McKenzie provided comprehensive legal and tax advice to the SFP Investment Foundation throughout the transaction process. Additionally, the firm advised COPRE on the tax aspects of the deal. This collaboration underscores the firm's expertise in navigating complex real estate and pension fund transactions, ensuring that all legal and regulatory requirements are met with precision and efficiency.
The successful completion of this transaction is a testament to the strong partnership between COPRE, Swiss Finance & Property Group, and Baker McKenzie. It not only strengthens the financial position of COPRE but also enhances the management and growth potential of its real estate assets. The deal is expected to bring about significant benefits for both parties, including improved investment performance and enhanced asset management capabilities.
Swiss Finance & Property Group, known for its robust and innovative approach to real estate asset management, is well-positioned to maximize the value of the transferred portfolio. The group’s expertise in sustainable and responsible investment practices aligns perfectly with COPRE's long-term strategic goals, ensuring that the assets are managed in a way that benefits both current and future pension beneficiaries.
Baker McKenzie’s involvement in this transaction further cements its reputation as a leading legal advisor in the Swiss financial and real estate sectors. The firm’s ability to provide specialized and comprehensive legal and tax advice is crucial in facilitating such high-stakes transactions, ensuring that all parties are well-informed and protected throughout the process.
In conclusion, this significant real estate portfolio transfer represents a major step forward for both COPRE and Swiss Finance & Property Group. It underscores the importance of professional and sustainable management practices in the Swiss pension fund market and sets a new standard for future transactions in this sector.