What type of investment typically comprises loans secured against real estate assets?

The correct answer pertains to the category of investment known as private debt. This type of investment involves funds that are lent to private companies or projects, typically backed by real estate assets as collateral. The loans are often structured to provide consistent returns to investors, often through fixed interest payments. Since these loans are secured against real estate, they carry a degree of safety for investors, as the underlying assets can be liquidated if there is a default.

In contrast, private equity refers to investments in privately held companies or buyouts, often without a focus on real estate collateral. Public equity involves investments in shares of publicly traded companies, which again does not directly correlate with real estate-based loans. Public debt typically involves debt securities issued by governments or corporations, which are not necessarily secured against real estate assets, thus lacking the specific characteristic of being secured by tangible property.

Therefore, private debt is the type of investment that specifically encompasses loans secured against real estate assets, distinguishing it from the other investment types mentioned.