15 Most Favored REITs According to Hedge Funds

Industry Overview - The U.S. real estate market is normalizing in 2025 after volatility in the previous two years, with Fed's three consecutive rate cuts boosting investor motivation [1] - Morgan Stanley's 2026 outlook emphasizes that sector-specific and asset-level drivers will dominate market dynamics, predicting increased transaction activity due to demand-supply imbalances and favorable credit conditions [2] - Fitch Ratings provides a neutral outlook for U.S. equity REITs in 2026, noting financial discipline and encouraging fundamentals, with most REITs trading at discounts to their net asset values [4] Investment Opportunities - Real estate investment trusts (REITs) are making it easier for retail investors to access diverse real estate segments, appealing to those seeking frequent income and unique property types [3] - A methodology for identifying favored REITs includes screening U.S.-listed REITs with market capitalizations above $2 billion and excluding those with share prices below $5, focusing on stocks with at least 5% upside potential [7][8] Specific REIT Analysis - Independence Realty Trust (NYSE:IRT) has a share price of $17.26 with a potential upside of 18.4%, supported by 27 hedge fund holders [10] - Analysts maintain a positive outlook for IRT, with target price revisions indicating upside potential of 27.5% and 16% from different analysts, driven by expected improvements in lease rates and easing supply-side conditions [11][12] - Kimco Realty Corporation (NYSE:KIM) has a share price of $21.06 and a potential upside of 12.2%, also backed by 27 hedge fund holders [14] - Analysts express optimism for KIM, with target price adjustments suggesting upside potential of around 19% and 23.5%, supported by positive forecasts for various property types [15][16]