Alternative investments

Hedge fund alpha is going from bad to worse. Why the decline in performance?

For advisors, the choices among alternative beta portfolios are numerous. Which ones make the most sense for clients?

How does owning gold compare to owning precious metals equities?

Long-term gains on some gold investments can be surprisingly high, under the rules for collectibles.

For advisors, the choices among alternative beta portfolios are numerous. Which ones make the most sense for clients?

How does owning gold compare to owning precious metals equities?

Long-term gains on some gold investments can be surprisingly high, under the rules for collectibles.

Long-term gains on some gold investments can be surprisingly high, under the rules for collectibles.

Investors often make mistakes when buying and selling art. Most novices will first call an auction house, which may not be unbiased about its own program.

Investors often make mistakes when buying and selling art. Most novices will first call an auction house, which may not be unbiased about its own program.

Investors often make mistakes when buying and selling art. Most novices will first call an auction house, which may not be unbiased about its own program.

A small amount of gold in a portfolio can act as a good alternative asset to diversify risk.

A small amount of gold in a portfolio can act as a good alternative asset to diversify risk.

To include real estate in a portfolio, buying rental property may be more practical than investing in tax liens or making private loans.

Gold’s role as an alternative investment might be reduced with Washington moving back from the brink of default.

Liquid and transparent versions of hedge funds are widely available but choosing among them takes thorough investigation.

Gold’s role as an alternative investment might be reduced with Washington moving back from the brink of default.

Gold’s role as an alternative investment might be reduced with Washington moving back from the brink of default.

Low or negative correlation is necessary for a good alternative investment, but don't forget the second essential trait.

"Smart beta" ETFs are attracting funds from both active managers and passive indexes.