Lionel Messi’s Real Estate Portfolio Valued at €223 Million
Football icon Lionel Messi has recently disclosed his extensive real estate holdings, which are estimated to be worth €223 million (approximately $232 million).
Edificio Rostower: A Growing Investment Trust
Messi’s firm, Edificio Rostower Socimi, has been established as a real estate investment trust (REIT). The company’s portfolio includes seven hotels, various commercial spaces for retail and offices, as well as residential properties, as detailed in its prospectus. However, the firm reported financial losses in both 2022 and 2023.
Rostower’s Share Price and Market Activity
As of December 30, the share price of Rostower was set at €57.40 on the Portfolio Stock Exchange, a small digital-only trading platform based in Spain.
Messi’s Journey and Impact on MLS
Originally from Argentina, Messi has primarily resided in Spain, where he moved at the age of 12 to join FC Barcelona’s youth teams. After a brief period in Paris, he relocated to Miami in 2023, shortly after leading the Argentine national team to victory in the 2022 World Cup. His move to Miami has significantly boosted interest and business for Inter Miami, his new team, alongside the wider Major League Soccer (MLS) landscape.
A Different Approach to Business Investments
Unlike some other sports superstars, such as his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi has taken a more understated approach to his business ventures.
Rapid Transition to a REIT
The listing of Rostower as a REIT transpired swiftly. The company converted to this structure in mid-December, shortly after the Spanish government was unable to pass a tax increase on real estate trusts in parliament. Currently, REITs in Spain enjoy a reduced tax rate compared to other businesses.
Strategic Listing Choices
While many investors list REITs primarily to comply with legal requirements and benefit from favorable tax regimes, Messi’s company does not impose any free float requirements, according to the Portfolio Stock Exchange. Notably, the choice of the Portfolio exchange for the listing is unconventional, considering its smaller scale and lower recognition compared to the more popular BME Growth index for REITs in Spain.
Leadership and Governance
Messi serves as the chairman of Rostower’s board, with his wife also occupying a position on the board, highlighting a family involvement in this burgeoning business venture.
