Capital flight from the US – accelerated by President Trump’s rhetoric – could benefit the UK property investment sector. 

That’s the view of Daniel Austin, chief executive of ASK Partners, a property lender.

He says that one asset class poised to benefit as an alternative for investors deterred from the United States could be real estate and within that, UK real estate debt. Amid rising geopolitical tensions, fragile equity markets, and growing wariness around US economic insularity, this niche offers an attractive combination of stability, income, and resilience that traditional investments increasingly fail to deliver, insists Austin.

He says: “Markets hate unpredictability and trade wars reliably deliver it. Trump’s policy stance, while aimed at bolstering the domestic economy, is fuelling investor unease. Tariffs drive up import costs, dent corporate profits, and introduce currency volatility, all of which feed through to subdued market performance.

“By contrast, the UK is quietly re-establishing itself as a pro-business destination in the post-Brexit landscape. Despite its own challenges, the UK remains attractive to dollar-based investors thanks to strong legal protections, transparent regulation, and a favourable currency environment. However, direct property ownership in the UK can be administratively complex and tax-heavy, making real estate debt an increasingly appealing alternative.”

Austin suggests that real estate debt provides a unique blend of capital preservation and steady income. Unlike equities or direct property investment, it avoids the headaches of tenant management or sudden valuation swings. Instead, investors fund loans secured against bricks-and-mortar assets, typically with conservative loan-to-value ratios and receive fixed interest payments.

“Firms like ASK Partners exemplify this model, enabling individuals to lend against commercial and residential developments via digital platforms. Investors gain transparency, control, and regular income, all without the complexity of active property management. This accessibility is especially appealing to a growing number of financially empowered female investors, many of whom seek stability and control over speculative upside. Real estate debt hits that sweet spot: consistent returns with minimal drama” he continues. 

And he says that in a world where capital is increasingly politicised, and economic uncertainty is the new normal, the appeal of real estate debt becomes even clearer. 

“It offers regular cash flow, insulation from market swings, and none of the burdens of property ownership. For time-poor investors juggling careers, families, and long-term financial planning, it delivers on every front: efficiency, autonomy, and peace of mind. 

“This trend isn’t just a reaction to Trump, it’s part of a broader shift in how global capital is being managed. As traditional institutions fall behind, more nimble players are redefining what successful investing looks like. It’s not about chasing returns at any cost; it’s about clarity, control, and long-term value.”