Realty Income (NYSE:O) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) specializing in the acquisition and management of freestanding, single-tenant commercial properties under long-term net leases. The company’s business model focuses on generating predictable, stable cash flows through contractual rent payments, with minimal landlord responsibilities. Realty Income’s strategy emphasizes high-quality tenants operating in essential business sectors such as retail, industrial, office, and health care.
Since its founding in 1969 by William E. Clark and subsequent public listing in 1994, Realty Income has pursued a disciplined investment approach that prioritizes creditworthy lessees and properties in prime locations. The company’s portfolio features a diversified mix of assets leased to tenants on net leases, where the tenant assumes most property-related expenses. This structure has supported Realty Income’s reputation for delivering reliable monthly dividends to shareholders.
Realty Income’s investment activities encompass property sourcing, due diligence, financing, and asset management. The company leverages an internal platform to underwrite acquisitions, negotiate lease terms, and monitor tenant performance. Its portfolio spans thousands of locations across the United States and Europe, with significant exposure to essential services providers including convenience stores, drugstores, supermarkets, home improvement outlets, logistics facilities, and specialized industrial properties.
Headquartered in San Diego, California, Realty Income is led by President and Chief Executive Officer Sumit Roy, supported by a seasoned management team overseeing capital allocation, portfolio strategy, and property operations. The company’s geographic footprint extends beyond the U.S. into the United Kingdom, Spain, the Netherlands, and Germany, reflecting its commitment to global diversification and growth. Through disciplined leasing and active portfolio management, Realty Income aims to maintain its long-standing track record of stable cash returns and sustainable dividend growth.
