Financial Institutions – REITs: 2012 First

This marks the third straight year in first place for ISI Group’s team of five captained by Stephen Sakwa, 45. Credited by one fund manager with being “on top of all the issues — all the time,” the researchers follow 34 real estate investment trusts, including Brandywine Realty Trust. They initiated coverage of the Radnor, Pennsylvania–based outfit in October 2011 with a buy rating, at $7.69, on valuation and the strength of the mid-Atlantic office developer’s increasingly diverse portfolio of properties. The shares had bolted 58.6 percent, to $12.20, by the end of August. In November they upgraded Equity One from hold to buy, at $15.43, thanks to its acquisitions in California and Connecticut. Shares of the North Miami Beach, Florida–based operator of shopping centers soared 37.4 percent, to $21.20, through August. “I find Steve and his team to be good, contrarian stock pickers, with incredible access to management teams,” says one investor. Adds another: “Steve is personable and highly approachable; he communicates effectively and always treats clients and his team with kindness and respect.”