European commercial property investment volumes 'on the up'

Commercial property investment volumes in Europe enjoyed a major increase over the third quarter of this year, new figures have revealed.

The study by Cushman & Wakefield revealed that trading volumes were up 53 per cent, while prime yields also stabilised over the period thanks to improving investor sentiment.

In addition, future potential increases are expected in the final quarter, although there are some doubts over the outlook for 2010.

However, David Hutchings, head of Cushman & Wakefield's European research group, said: "It's clear we've turned an important corner".

He added: "With yields stabilising at levels which are clearly attractive for long-term equity buyers, a growing number believe that now is the time to act even if the occupier market has not yet hit bottom."

Earlier this month, Cushman & Wakefield revealed that investor sentiment in the UK market grew during September, as signs emerged that the occupational markets may soon stabilise.