Are Alternative Investments the Key to Diversifying Your Portfolio? Explore Types, Benefits and How to Get Started

Are you tired of the traditional investment options that seem to be a rollercoaster ride and often offer limited downside protection? Do you find yourself longing for new opportunities that can potentially generate higher returns over market cycles? If so, it’s time to delve into alternative investments. Explore the different types of alternative investments, their benefits and how you can get started.

Types of Alternative Investments

Alternative investments are non-traditional investment options that offer diversification, unique opportunities and potential higher returns beyond conventional asset classes like stocks and bonds. Let’s dive deeper into the world of alternative investments, where you’ll find exciting opportunities waiting to be explored. Here is a list of some popular alternative investments to consider:

Real Estate

Investing in private real estate has long been a popular alternative investment choice. You can choose to invest in residential properties, such as houses or apartments, which can provide a steady stream of rental income. Commercial properties, such as office spaces or retail buildings, can offer higher potential returns. If you prefer a more indirect approach, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) allow you to invest in a portfolio of properties without the hassle of direct ownership.

Private Equity

Private equity is a form of alternative investment that involves investing in privately-held companies. It encompasses strategies such as venture capital, leveraged buyouts and investing directly in publicly-traded private equity firms.

Venture Capital

Venture capital investments focus on financing startups and early-stage companies with significant growth potential. By providing capital to these innovative ventures, you become a part of their exciting journey and have the opportunity to support cutting-edge ideas and technologies. Venture capital investments come with elevated inherent risks but can yield substantial returns if the companies you invest in succeed and experience rapid growth. As an investor, you not only provide financial support but also offer guidance and expertise to help these companies thrive.

Leveraged Buyouts

In contrast, there are leveraged buyouts (LBOs) that involve acquiring established companies with the aim of restructuring or improving their operations to enhance profitability. LBOs typically occur when a private equity firm takes over a publicly traded company, delisting it from the stock exchange and making it a privately held entity. Through the buyout, the private equity firm gains a controlling stake in the company, allowing them to implement strategic changes and operational improvements. The goal is to enhance the company’s financial performance, increase its value and ultimately generate attractive returns upon exit, such as through a sale or initial public offering (IPO).

Private equity investments offer investors the potential for substantial returns, but they also involve higher levels of risk and require longer-term commitments compared to more traditional investments. These investments require thorough due diligence, careful selection of companies or projects and a deep understanding of the industry and market dynamics. Engaging with experienced private equity professionals or firms is essential to navigate this complex investment landscape and identify promising opportunities for growth and profitability.

Hedge Funds

Hedge funds are alternative investment vehicles that employ a diverse range of investment strategies and techniques to generate returns. They operate by pooling funds from multiple investors and aim to achieve positive returns regardless of market conditions.

Hedge funds differentiate themselves from traditional investment funds by their flexibility in employing various strategies and investment approaches. Some common hedge fund strategies include long/short equity, global macro, event-driven and arbitrage. These strategies enable hedge funds to potentially capitalize on market inefficiencies, price discrepancies and opportunities across different asset classes and markets.

One key aspect of hedge funds is their ability to implement alternative investment strategies that are not typically available to traditional investment vehicles, such as mutual funds. Hedge funds can invest in a wide range of assets, including stocks, bonds, currencies, commodities and derivatives. This flexibility allows them to adapt their investment approach based on market conditions and take advantage of unique investment opportunities.

Due to their unique strategies, structures and potentially higher risk levels, hedge funds are typically available only to accredited or qualified investors. These investors are individuals or institutions that meet specific financial criteria and possess a higher level of investment knowledge and sophistication.

Commodities

If you’re interested in tangible assets, commodities can be an appealing alternative investment option. Precious metals like gold and silver have been sought after for centuries as a store of value and a hedge against economic uncertainties. Energy commodities such as oil, iron-air batteries, alkaline fuel cells and solar panel technologies offer opportunities for profit in a global market driven by energy demand. Additionally, agricultural products like grains and livestock can provide exposure to the ever-growing global need for food and resources.

Cryptocurrencies

The captivating realm of cryptocurrencies has gained significant attention in recent years. Bitcoin, the pioneer of cryptocurrencies, has witnessed explosive growth and captured the imagination of investors worldwide. Ethereum, another prominent cryptocurrency, offers a platform for decentralized applications and smart contracts. Beyond these well-known options, there’s a vast array of alternative coins (altcoins) with unique features and use cases, providing ample room for exploration and potential investment opportunities. Investment in cryptocurrencies brings a higher risk of volatility and price fluctuations.

Each of these alternative investment options offers its own set of risks and rewards. It’s crucial to conduct thorough research, understand the market dynamics and consider your risk tolerance and investment goals before venturing into any specific alternative investment.

More Types of Alternative Investments

• Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
• Artwork
• Commodities
• Cryptocurrency
• Emerging Markets
• Farmland
• Finance Receivables
• Forestry
• Hedge Funds
• Infrastructure, Wireless Infrastructure
• Innovative Industries
• Land
• Private Credit
• Private Equity
• Real Estate
• Renewables & Green Energy
• Structured Notes
• Other Alternative Investments

Benefits of Alternative Investments

According to Prequin, alternative asset classes increased at an average annual growth rate of 10.7% between 2015 and the end of 2021. From $7.23 trillion in 2015 to$13.32 trillion by 2021, it is expected to rise to $23 trillion by 2026. The Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association predicts that alternatives will contribute 50% of industry revenue in the coming years, despite comprising just 12% of the $153 trillion global investable market in 2020. The substantial growth in assets across alternative asset classes highlights the compelling potential and benefits of exploring alternative investments.

Diversification

One of the benefits of alternative investments is their ability to diversify your portfolio. By allocating your funds to different asset classes beyond the traditional stocks and bonds, you reduce the risk of relying solely on one investment type. Alternative investments, such as real estate, private equity, hedge funds, commodities, private credit, structured notes and cryptocurrencies, introduce a new level of diversification that can help protect your portfolio during market fluctuations.

PwC reported that there is a significant shift among sovereign and public pension funds towards alternative investments. This trend, which originated in the United States and is now gaining global momentum, indicates a growing desire among these funds to diversify their portfolios and explore non-traditional investment options.

Potential for Higher Returns

Alternative investments have the potential to deliver higher returns compared to traditional options. By exploring alternative avenues, you expose yourself to unique investment opportunities that may generate substantial profits. For example, real estate investments can offer rental income and potential appreciation, while private equity investments in promising startups can lead to significant returns if the companies succeed.

According to Bain & Company, the private equity industry achieved a remarkable milestone in 2021, as it recorded a record-breaking $1.1 trillion in buyouts, highlighting its resilience and impressive growth. This increase in private equity deal value reflects the industry’s ability to navigate challenges and capitalize on market opportunities, cementing its role as a driving force in the global investment landscape.

Lower Correlation

Another advantage of alternative investments is their lower correlation with traditional asset classes, which means that their performance may not be closely tied to the ups and downs of the stock market or other conventional investments. By adding alternative investments to your portfolio, you can potentially reduce overall portfolio volatility and enhance your risk-adjusted returns.

Hedge Against Inflation

Inflation can erode the purchasing power of your money over time. Alternative investments can act as a hedge against inflation by providing growth opportunities that outpace inflation rates. For example, real estate investments tend to appreciate over time, while commodities like precious metals can serve as a store of value during inflationary periods. By incorporating these alternatives, you can help preserve and grow your wealth in the face of rising prices.

Access to Unique Opportunities

Alternative investments offer access to unique opportunities that may not be readily available in traditional markets. Whether investing in private or commercial real estate projects, supporting innovative startups, participating in hedge fund strategies or exploring the world of cryptocurrencies, alternative investments allow you to diversify beyond conventional investment options. These opportunities can provide exposure to emerging industries, disruptive technologies and niche markets, potentially positioning you ahead of the curve and unlocking new avenues for financial growth.

By embracing alternative investments, you can take advantage of diversification, tap into the potential for higher returns, reduce correlation with traditional assets, hedge against inflation and access unique investment opportunities. However, it’s crucial to carefully assess each alternative investment opportunity, understand the associated risks and seek professional advice when needed. With the right approach and a well-diversified portfolio, you can navigate the dynamic investment landscape and strive towards achieving your financial goals.

How to Get into Alternative Investments

Now that you’re captivated by the potential of alternative investments, you may be wondering how to further explore this exciting journey. Fear not, as we guide you through the steps to get started on your path to alternative investments.

Conduct Thorough Research

Begin by immersing yourself in thorough research to understand the various alternative investment options available. Explore the characteristics, risks and potential returns of each option. Dive into industry reports, articles and reputable sources to gain insights into the market dynamics and trends. This knowledge will empower you to make informed investment decisions.

Assess Risk and Return Profiles

Consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. Each alternative investment option carries its own risk and return profiles. Some investments may offer higher potential returns but come with increased risk. Ensure that the risk-reward balance aligns with your financial objectives and comfort level. Assess how each investment option fits into your overall portfolio strategy.

Seek Professional Guidance

Alternative investments can be complex, and seeking professional guidance is crucial. Experienced financial advisors specializing in alternative investments can provide valuable insights, help you navigate the intricacies of the market and guide you towards suitable investment opportunities. They can also assist in assessing risk, evaluating investment vehicles and constructing a well-rounded portfolio tailored to your specific goals.

Explore Investment Platforms and Vehicles

Alternative investments often require specialized platforms or vehicles for access. Fortune Financial thoroughly researches and explores investment platforms—determining the best platforms for various alternative investments. These platforms provide opportunities to invest in alternative assets and offer access to deals and projects that may not be available through traditional channels. Fortune Financial evaluates various due diligence areas such as the track record, reputation and fees associated with these platforms to make an informed decision.

Assess Liquidity Needs and Investment Horizon

Consider your liquidity needs and investment horizon when venturing into alternative investments. Some alternative investments, such as real estate or private equity, may have longer lock-up periods or limited liquidity compared to publicly traded assets. Evaluate your financial situation, investment time horizon and potential cash flow requirements. Ensure that the illiquid nature of certain alternative investments aligns with your financial plans.

When to Consider Alternative Investments

While alternative investments offer exciting possibilities, they may only be suitable for some stages of your investment journey. Consider the following factors to determine if alternative investments are the right choice for you:

Diversification Needs

If you want to diversify your investment portfolio beyond traditional assets like stocks and bonds, alternative investments can provide a valuable avenue. By incorporating alternative options, you can reduce the risk of being overly reliant on any single asset class and potentially enhance portfolio resilience.

Long-Term Investment Goals

Alternative investments often have longer time horizons and may require a patient approach. If you have long-term investment goals, such as funding retirement or building wealth over several years, alternative investments can offer unique growth and income potential and diversification benefits over time.

Risk Tolerance and Appetite for Unconventional Avenues

Alternative investments can involve varying risks, including illiquidity and market volatility. Assess your risk tolerance and comfort level with less conventional investment avenues. Alternative investments may be suitable if you have a higher risk tolerance and are open to exploring diverse opportunities beyond traditional markets.

Market Conditions and Economic Outlook

Consider market conditions and economic outlook when contemplating alternative investments. Different alternative investment options may perform better under specific economic conditions. Evaluate whether the current market environment aligns with the potential of alternative investments to capitalize on emerging trends or economic shifts.

Finding the right balance between traditional and alternative investments is key to a well-rounded portfolio. By carefully evaluating the benefits, risks and suitability of alternative investments, you can make informed decisions that align with your financial goals and aspirations. Remember, it’s essential to seek professional advice and conduct thorough due diligence before venturing into alternative investments.

Fortune Financial: Your Partner in Alternative Investments

When venturing into the world of alternative investments, having a trusted partner by your side can make all the difference. As a reputable financial services firm with expertise in alternative investments, Fortune Financial is dedicated to helping investors navigate the complex landscape and potential of these unique opportunities.

Fortune Financial is a leading financial services firm that specializes in alternative investments. With a team of experienced professionals, we provide comprehensive advisory services tailored to individual investor needs. Our deep understanding of alternative investments, market trends and risk management strategies set us apart as a reliable partner in the ever-evolving world of finance.

Expertise in Alternative Investments

Fortune Financial boasts a wealth of knowledge and expertise in alternative investments. Our team is well-versed in the nuances of various alternative asset classes, including private equity, real estate, hedge funds, private credit, structured notes and commodities, enabling us to provide valuable insights, identify compelling investment opportunities and offer tailored solutions to meet the client’s unique needs.

Range of Services Offered

Fortune Financial offers a range of services designed to support investors in their alternative investment journey—from comprehensive portfolio analysis to personalized investment strategies—aligned with individual goals and risk profiles. We provide in-depth research, due diligence and ongoing monitoring of investment options, ensuring that clients have access to high-quality opportunities and are equipped with the information needed to make informed investment decisions.

Personalized Investment Strategies

Understanding that every investor is unique, Fortune Financial takes a personalized approach to crafting investment strategies. We work closely with clients to assess financial goals, risk tolerance and investment preferences. Leveraging expertise and market insights, we develop customized investment plans that align with each client’s objectives, offering a roadmap to success in the realm of both traditional and alternative investments.

Strong Track Record of Client Satisfaction

Fortune Financial’s commitment to excellence and client satisfaction has earned us a reputation for delivering results. By combining industry knowledge, research capabilities and dedication to client success, we have established a strong record of generating attractive risk-adjusted returns and building long-term relationships based on trust and transparency.

When it comes to alternative investments, Fortune Financial stands out as a reputable partner you can rely on. Whether you are a seasoned investor looking to diversify your portfolio or a newcomer exploring new investment avenues, Fortune Financial can be your trusted guide on the path to financial growth and success in the world of alternative investments. Contact us today! 

Important Note

This material is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. The information contained herein is based on current tax laws, which may change in the future. Fortune Financial Advisors cannot be held responsible for any direct or incidental loss resulting from applying any of the information provided in this publication or from any other source mentioned. The information provided in these materials does not constitute any legal, tax or accounting advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for this type of advice. The information provided above is obtained from publicly available sources and is reliable. However, no representation or warranty is made as to its accuracy or completeness.