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Bahrain’s GFH takes on US healthcare with Big Sky deal

By Andy Sambidge
Jason L Signor, CEO of Big Sky bigskymed.com
Jason L Signor, CEO of Big Sky

Bahrain’s GFH Financial Group announced on Tuesday it has completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Big Sky Asset Management, a US real estate asset manager focused on the healthcare sector.

The transaction further expands GFH’s presence in the States and follows the partnership in May with SQ Asset Management, a specialist in student housing in prime US states and cities.

With the acquisition of Big Sky, GFH said it has established a strong foothold in the growing healthcare market.

Big Sky manages assets with more than $2 billion in cumulative transaction value made up of about 130 medical facilities.

“We are looking forward to this partnership with an established and well positioned expert such as Big Sky, and believe it gives GFH a unique approach to the market by bringing together our regional expertise with Big Sky’s extensive know-how in the US healthcare market,” said Nael Mustafa, co-chief investment officer at GFH.

“This acquisition is instrumental to the future growth of GFH by giving us strong management teams that are able to execute our growth strategy and give us a local presence, which in today’s market is a key ingredient to success.

“We believe the healthcare real estate sector through Big Sky will present attractive returns for our investors.”

GFH has completed acquisitions of two medical clinics through a joint venture with Big Sky that is valued in excess of $800 million. 

“We are strong believers in the healthcare market which is positioned for steady, resilient growth following the shift in outpatient services and subsequent demand for quality medical clinics assets,” added Mustafa.

Jason L Signor, CEO of Big Sky, said: “Having GFH as a strong partner will enable Big Sky to further offer unique investment opportunities to investors in the US and the GCC.

“Big Sky is well positioned to grow its AUM and become one of the largest healthcare real estate investors by combining our market capabilities with GFH’s strong global access.”  

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