Cottonwood Group

Cottonwood Group is a private equity real estate investment firm headquartered in Los Angeles, California. Established in 2012, the firm focuses on equity and debt opportunities across various property sectors and geographies within the United States. Its investment strategy encompasses both equity and debt investments, targeting U.S. real estate opportunities with a capitalization of up to $1 billion. The firm's ability to act as a lender, investor, operator, and sponsor of real estate investments of all sizes and complexities is fundamental to delivering risk-adjusted absolute returns for investors.

The firm's investment approach is characterized by its vertically integrated platform, which includes in-house expertise in origination and investment execution, portfolio and risk management, asset management, development and construction, and capital markets. This integrated approach enables Cottonwood to manage investments through the entire real estate lifecycle, from acquisition and development to leasing, sales, and eventual exit. The firm's diversified portfolio spans a variety of asset types and geographies within the U.S., including industrial logistics warehouses, data centers, multifamily apartments, and mixed-use developments in high-growth markets.

Cottonwood Group has demonstrated a strong track record in the real estate investment sector. In September 2025, the firm closed a $1 billion fund for special situations, targeting properties needing financial restructuring, new development, or other potentially high-yielding opportunities. The fund has already invested approximately $300 million, primarily through loans with options to acquire title to properties in the event of a default. This strategic focus underscores Cottonwood's ability to remain agile during market cycles and execute complex development or restructuring to unlock value. The firm's commitment to risk mitigation and downside protection has consistently optimized returns across its debt and equity investments, even in volatile market conditions.

Cottonwood Group's leadership team comprises individuals with extensive experience in real estate and finance. The firm's founder and CEO, Alexander Shing, brings nearly two decades of global experience in special opportunities, structured finance, restructuring, distress, and principal investing. Under his leadership, Cottonwood has built a reputation for its comprehensive approach to real estate investment, combining financial acumen with operational expertise to deliver value to investors and stakeholders alike.