The outlook for the European commercial property market is cautiously optimistic despite growing geopolitical uncertainty and concerns about economic growth, with London, Madrid and Paris emerging as the standout performers, according to a new report by PwC and the Urban Land Institute (ULI). The report – Emerging Trends in Real Estate Europe 2025 outlines how market players believe ‘a new normal’ is emerging as valuations have come down and interest rates regain some level of predictability in a market characterised by higher inflation and interest rates, and geopolitical and economic uncertainties. This led to more than 80 percent of survey respondents expecting business confidence and profits to stay the same or rise in 2025, with around half predicting increases in both. More →

An analysis by the European Central Bank (ECB) has raised concerns that several of the Euro zone’s leading banks may be inflating the value of commercial property, potentially obscuring the true state of their loan portfolios in a sector that is facing significant challenges. The analysis suggests that some banks are failing to properly account for the steep downturn in the commercial property market, which has been severely impacted by higher borrowing costs and weakened demand as businesses adjust to the post-pandemic economic landscape. More →

In a significant redevelopment move, 8 Canada Square, currently the headquarters of HSBC, is set to be transformed into a modern multi-use skyscraper once the bank vacates its Canary Wharf location in 2027. The global banking giant will relocate to the Square Mile as part of a company refresh, prompting an overhaul of its existing headquarters. This morning, the Canary Wharf Group (CWG) announced plans to reimagine the iconic building into a state-of-the-art space encompassing workspaces, leisure, entertainment, and educational facilities. The building is wholly owned by the Qatari sovereign wealth fund (QIA), with CWG serving as the development partner. More →