Unique Benefits

The Unique Benefits of Investing in Timberland

Low Volatility

Timber offers a level of price stability over the long term that is more comparable to bonds than stocks. The biological and investment growth cycles are steady and predictable. In low-price years, timber can be left standing until more desirable pricing is available.

Returns and Cash Yields

The total return is enhanced by the biological growth of the timber as well as product class jumps. With proper acquisition, active management and disposition, rates of return can be enhanced and be structured to provide annual cash yields at relatively low risk levels.

Favorable Supply and Demand

Historically, demand for wood products has tracked closely with worldwide population growth. World population is expected to increase from 7.7 billion to 9.7 billion by the year 2050, according to World Population Prospects 2019 from the United Nations.

Rapid Growth of Investment

Investment in American timberland, particularly from institutional investors, continues to grow. This increase could ultimately push the price of timberland higher as buyers compete for available land.

Flexible Harvesting

Since a tree’s life cycle does not require it to be harvested at any particular time, it can be left standing during poor price periods.

Liquidity

Liquidity of the timberland investment is achievable in a moderate period of time.

Diversification

The investment performance of timberland has low equity correlation and extremely low fixed-income correlation. It also has a positive correlation to inflation. Timberland holdings, as a result, offer investors a hedge against market downturns and inflation.

Tax Advantages

Under current tax laws, timber investments receive favorable capital gains treatment on harvest sales. Loan interest is tax-deductible on non-recourse borrowing. The depletion allowance offers additional tax advantages.

Environmental Responsibility

Timber is a renewable, natural resource that provides ecosystems with benefits such as clean air, clean water, wildlife habitat and carbon sequestration. Conservation ensures the preservation of forest lands for future generations.