An Equity REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is a type of investment company that primarily owns and operates income-generating real estate properties. These properties can include residential buildings, shopping malls, office spaces, and hotels. Equity REITs generate revenue mainly through leasing space and collecting rents, which they typically distribute to shareholders as dividends. Unlike other types of REITs, such as Mortgage REITs, which focus on financing real estate through mortgages, Equity REITs invest directly in physical properties. This direct ownership allows them to benefit from property appreciation and rental income, making them a popular choice for investors seeking exposure to the real estate market.