CIM Group, LLC and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. have announced a strategic partnership that expands both organizations’ growth initiatives in real estate and infrastructure investments across North America.

Proceeds from Mitsui’s 20% investment in CIM will be used entirely to fund CIM's continued growth. Mitsui will also commit capital to multiple CIM funds. This relationship demonstrates Mitsui’s confidence that CIM’s investment management capabilities will be increasingly valued by global investors. CIM will continue to be overseen and controlled by its founders and principals. Mitsui’s total investment will be US$450-550 million, with adjustments based on terms of the agreement.

Avi Shemesh, Co-Founder and Principal of CIM Group said:

“We are excited to partner with Mitsui to position CIM to be the first choice for Japanese investors interested in real estate and infrastructure investments in North America. This partnership will allow CIM to better meet the growing needs of our investors.”

Mitsui is one of the oldest Japanese companies. The company has deep experience in listing and managing public Japanese REITs, private fund management, and partnering with investment managers. In addition, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Japan Alternative Investment Co., Ltd., Mitsui is a leading advisor to Japanese institutional investors. Through its partnership with CIM, Mitsui will enter the U.S. real estate asset management market, the largest globally, and will enhance its steady profit base with CIM positioned at the core of its international asset management strategy.

Tatsuo Yasunaga, President and CEO of Mitsui said:

“Our investment in CIM was the culmination of a systematic search for a best-in-class manager in the real-asset management business. Investing in CIM is consistent with our strategic plan to expand Mitsui’s real-asset management business to the U.S. and to enhance Mitsui’s global assets under management.”