Ares Commercial Real Estate (NYSE:ACRE) (NYSE: ACRE) is a publicly traded real estate investment trust (REIT) sponsored by Ares Management Corporation, a global alternative asset manager. Since its formation in 2018, ACRE has focused on originating, acquiring and managing a diversified portfolio of commercial real estate debt and equity investments. The company’s strategy emphasizes flexible financing solutions for property owners and developers across major property types, leveraging Ares Management’s extensive credit and real estate capabilities.
ACRE’s core business activities include arranging senior and mezzanine loans, providing preferred equity financing and making direct equity investments in office, retail, industrial, multifamily and hospitality properties. Through its lending platform, the company structures both stabilized and transitional loans tailored to sponsor needs, offering term loans, bridge loans and structured financings. Its equity investments typically involve co-investment alongside sponsors to acquire or recapitalize properties, with an emphasis on high-quality assets in resilient markets.
While the majority of Ares Commercial Real Estate’s portfolio is concentrated in primary U.S. markets such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Miami, the company also pursues selective credit investments in Europe. Collaborating with Ares Management’s regional teams in London and other international hubs, ACRE sources opportunities in established real estate markets, applying rigorous underwriting standards and proactive asset management to enhance risk-adjusted returns.
Leadership of Ares Commercial Real Estate is headed by President and Chief Executive Officer Michael J. Franco, a seasoned real estate finance professional with over two decades of experience. Under Franco’s guidance, the company benefits from Ares Management’s global infrastructure, a centralized risk-management framework and a dedicated team of real estate and credit specialists. This integrated platform supports ACRE’s goal of delivering stable income generation and long-term capital appreciation for shareholders.
