This week Nick talks to Nadine Buckland.
Nadine has over two decades of experience in advisory and investment. She co-founded Zenzic Capital in 2014 alongside Tom Lloyd-Jones. Before establishing Zenzic, Nadine held positions in insolvency and transaction advisory at Horwath Clarke Whitehill, RSM Tenon, and Baker Tilly.
Nick and Nadine discuss the evolution of the UK and European non-bank lending market, with a particular focus on real estate credit. Nadine shares her journey from insolvency roles to co-founding Zenzic Capital, a specialist in opportunistic real estate debt. They highlight the increasing demand for alternative lending solutions, particularly in the SME and mid-market real estate sectors, where traditional bank appetite remains constrained. Key trends include the rising use of preferred equity and short-term credit facilities to help borrowers manage refinancing and bridge valuation gaps in a higher interest rate environment. Nadine also highlights the growing role of inheritance tax-efficient investment vehicles and the importance of flexible capital in supporting sectors such as affordable housing and purpose-built student accommodation.
Looking ahead, they explore opportunities in continental Europe, where non-bank lending remains comparatively nascent, particularly in markets such as Spain, Italy, and France. Zenzic Capital targets lower mid-market transactions (£20 million to £50 million), offering flexible capital where larger credit providers are less active. Success in these markets relies on deep local market knowledge, strong underwriting standards, and building long-term borrower relationships to navigate Europe’s fragmented legal and regulatory landscape. The conversation underscores how non-bank real estate lenders are well positioned to benefit from Europe’s wave of refinancing demand and the growing requirement for alternative, relationship-driven capital, positioning firms like Zenzic at the forefront of this dynamic market.
Nadine's book choice was:
Five Minutes in the Morning by Aster
Nadine's music choice was:
Moon River by Andy Williams
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