Lionel Messi launches IPO for his real estate investment firm Rostower
Lionel Messi real estate firm Rostower plans IPO
Lionel Messi, one of the world’s most celebrated football stars, has ventured into real estate by launching an initial public offering (IPO) for his portfolio, which is valued at €223 million ($232 million).
The IPO pertains to his company, Edificio Rostower Socimi, which has been listed as a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) on Spain’s digital-only Portfolio Stock Exchange. The REIT, which includes a diverse range of assets, owns seven hotels, commercial real estate properties for shops and offices, as well as residential units, reports Bloomberg.
Despite its broad asset base, Rostower reported losses in both 2022 and 2023. The REIT’s share price was set at €57.40 on December 30, marking a significant moment in Messi’s business career.
While Messi’s company is now publicly listed, it has no free float requirements according to data from the Portfolio Stock Exchange. This listing follows a swift transition for Rostower, which only became a REIT in mid-December, shortly after the Spanish government attempted to raise taxes on real estate trusts—a proposal that was blocked in parliament.
Messi business strategy and market impact
Unlike some of his high-profile sports peers, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi has been known for his more reserved approach to business investments. However, his decision to list Rostower signals a growing interest in leveraging his wealth and influence beyond football.
The IPO follows Messi’s high-profile move to Miami in 2023 to join Major League Soccer's (MLS) Inter Miami. His arrival in the city has sparked a surge in both local business activity and interest in MLS, further broadening Messi’s impact beyond the pitch.
Looking ahead
The IPO and listing of Messi’s real estate trust offer insight into his evolving business strategy and mark a significant step in diversifying his portfolio. The success of Rostower’s listing could set a precedent for other athletes exploring business ventures in the real estate sector, especially in markets with favorable tax structures like Spain.
Reminder, Chinese government bonds are set for their best performance in a decade, with analysts predicting further gains heading into 2025.
