ABS Management Pivots to Selective U.S. Retail and Office Acquisitions

The firm is moving away from aggressive portfolio growth, focusing instead on disciplined selection. Rivlin argues that the sector’s recent period of intense repricing has opened a narrow window for buyers who can look past broader economic volatility. Rather than betting on Federal Reserve interest-rate policy, the company intends to base its acquisitions on current property economics, treating any future financing improvements as a secondary advantage.

Retail remains a cornerstone of the strategy, specifically neighborhood centers that anchor established communities. ABS is targeting properties that blend traditional retail with service-oriented tenants like healthcare and professional offices. This approach aligns with broader industry trends, as research from JLL indicates that 64% of retail investors are currently looking to expand their holdings. Meanwhile, the firm plans to approach the office sector with extreme caution. Rivlin emphasizes that the office market is highly fragmented, requiring a granular assessment of individual building locations, tenant quality, and physical condition. By eschewing transaction quotas, ABS aims to maintain a high bar for quality, securing assets that promise resilience regardless of wider market shifts.