Westbrooke’s Yield Plus investment product is capturing the attention of South African investors seeking exposure to international property markets, particularly in the UK. Dino Zuccollo and James Lightbody of Westbrooke spoke about the fund’s strategy, performance, and approach to navigating an increasingly complex economic landscape.
The Yield Plus product is designed to offer investors both income and capital growth through exposure to UK property, a market historically resilient and offering diversification benefits beyond domestic assets. “Understanding local market dynamics is crucial,” said Zuccollo. “The UK property market is highly regulated, and informed decision-making requires deep insight into regional performance, tenant demand, and economic factors.”
One of the core advantages of the fund, according to Lightbody, is its focus on risk management. In uncertain economic times, maintaining a balance between opportunity and caution is essential. “We carefully structure the portfolio to mitigate risk while seeking attractive returns,” he explained. “This involves selecting properties with strong underlying fundamentals and diversifying across sectors and locations.”
Currency considerations are also a significant factor for South African investors. The fund addresses this through hedging strategies and an awareness of exchange rate volatility. “Investors need to think beyond the property itself,” said Zuccollo. “Fluctuations in the rand-pound exchange rate can impact returns, so our approach is to manage exposure thoughtfully.”
Alternative investments, such as Yield Plus, are gaining traction among investors seeking to enhance their portfolios. Traditional equities and bonds have dominated for decades, but the search for income-generating assets with potential for capital appreciation has highlighted opportunities in property abroad. “Alternative investments provide a different risk-return profile,” noted Lightbody. “For South African investors, exposure to international property can be a valuable complement to domestic holdings.”
The investment process for Yield Plus is deliberately structured to ensure transparency and accessibility. Potential clients undergo a thorough onboarding process, with clear guidance on eligibility, risk assessment, and expected returns. This structured approach reflects Westbrooke’s emphasis on long-term partnerships and informed decision-making rather than speculative gains.
The fund’s performance in recent years has illustrated the benefits of this disciplined approach. Despite global economic uncertainty, Yield Plus has delivered consistent income streams and demonstrated resilience in the face of market fluctuations. “The key is patience and strategic allocation,” said Zuccollo. “Investing overseas is not about chasing short-term gains – it’s about building a sustainable, diversified portfolio that can weather economic cycles.”
For South African investors, the appeal of Yield Plus extends beyond financial returns. Exposure to the UK property market offers diversification against local economic pressures, access to mature real estate markets, and potential protection against domestic currency volatility. It is a reminder that opportunities abroad, when approached with insight and discipline, can form an essential part of a broader wealth strategy.
Zuccollo and Lightbody emphasised that investor education remains a priority. “We want clients to understand what they are investing in, why it makes sense for their portfolio, and the long-term potential of international property,” said Lightbody. “Knowledge and transparency are just as important as the assets themselves.”
As the South African investment landscape evolves, products like Westbrooke Yield Plus offer a compelling case for looking beyond borders. Through careful market analysis, robust risk management, and strategic diversification, investors can access international opportunities while navigating the complexities of currency, regulation, and economic uncertainty. The conversation underscores the growing importance of alternative investment strategies and the role of informed guidance in achieving long-term financial goals.
