Atlantic Union Bankshares Corporation successfully completed the sale of approximately $2 billion in commercial real estate loans to Blackstone Real Estate Debt Strategies, enhancing its capital position and reducing exposure to real estate concentration.

Information on the Target

Atlantic Union Bankshares Corporation (NYSE: AUB), headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, serves as the holding company for Atlantic Union Bank. The Bank operates a network of branches and ATMs across Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina, offering a wide range of banking services. As part of its strategic initiatives, Atlantic Union has recently acquired commercial real estate (CRE) loans from Sandy Spring Bank, valued at approximately $2 billion. This acquisition is integral to Atlantic Union's business objectives, aimed at enhancing its asset portfolio.

The recent transaction involved the sale of these performing CRE loans to vehicles affiliated with Blackstone Real Estate Debt Strategies (BREDS). This move aligns with the conclusion of Atlantic Union’s merger with Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc., completed on April 1, 2025, and showcases the Bank's strategic focus on optimizing its real estate exposure while maintaining operational efficiency.

Industry Overview in the Target's Country

The commercial real estate sector in the United States has shown resilience and potential for growth, despite economic fluctuations. The demand for commercial properties, including office spaces, retail, and industrial sectors, has remained r