Helvetica: Commercial Fund sold and let
The Helvetica Swiss Commercial Fund recently announced its intention to reduce its debt financing through sales. The first property has now been sold.
The Helvetica Swiss Commercial Fund (HSC Fund) sold one of the properties in its portfolio at the end of August. According to the fund management company, the sale was concluded above the market value of the property. This is a sign that the HSC Fund's real estate portfolio is fairly valued. "The current market price of the listed Swiss real estate fund, which has been paying high dividends for years, does not therefore reflect 100 % of the intrinsic value and its growth prospects, which currently represents an attractive opportunity for investors," the statement reads. Helvetica did not disclose details of the completed transaction.
Helvetica had recently announced that it would reduce the fund's leverage through sales and move towards a target corridor of 25-28 % (IB reported). Negotiations for a further sale are well advanced and should be concluded shortly.
Rentals in Lyssach, Fribourg and Baden
Helvetica has also announced several lettings. On the one hand, the contract with Ochsner Sport AG at Bernstrasse 35 in Lyssach (BE) has been extended early for a further five years. The property comprises flexible retail space on two full floors. In addition, the Chamber of Commerce France-Switzerland (CCIF) has extended its contract for a further five years in the building on Route du Jura in Fribourg. In addition, 850 square meters in the "Atrium" office and commercial property in Baden-Dättwil were let on a long-term basis to new tenants from the healthcare sector and the arts and culture sector.
Helvetica states the occupancy rate in the fund at over 95%. (aw)