The hunt for returns boosts stakes in alternative investments

Cerulli Associates finds evidence that European retail investors are increasingly attracted to alternative investments. These assets include hedge funds, private equity, venture capital, and private debt.

In times of market turmoil, traditional investing may no longer fulfill the returns expectations of investors. The time-honored [60:40] allocation between equities: bonds no longer apply, and investors are seeking to balance their portfolios with alternative investments.

Investors on alert amidst a busy macroeconomic agenda

Geopolitical developments such as trade wars and Middle East conflicts are making investors risk-averse. The recent crash in global bond yields is another example of markets turning on a dime.

Data from Prequin shows that 62 percent of investors and 61 percent of fund managers considered the end of 2018 a market cycle top.

Cerulli Associates: The allure of alt

Alternatives offer a diversification shield that can also smoothen volatile returns. What’s more, gone are the days when putting a toe in alternative waters needed a hefty investment. Retail investors can now access ETFs that will do the trick for far less.

Private assets appear to be here to stay and not only for the wealthy and institutional. Finally, for more insight on alternative investments, be sure to check back at DailyAlts.com.