Alternative investments are financial assets outside traditional investment categories like stocks, bonds, and cash. These include real estate, art, wine, cryptocurrency, and even farmland. Unlike conventional investments, these assets are generally not traded on traditional markets and often require a more in-depth understanding of the specific industry. However, they offer unique advantages like diversification, reduced market correlation, and the potential for higher returns.
In recent years, there’s been a surge of interest in alternative investments. This has been fueled, in part, by the proliferation of online platforms that make it easier for average investors to dip their toes into these specialized markets.
With people increasingly looking for ways to diversify their portfolios, several platforms have emerged to simplify the process. They offer unique features, pricing models, and areas of focus. This article aims to review Alternative investment reviews & ratings to see what users think of some of the best platforms in this space.
Masterworks
Masterworks specializes in fine art investments. It allows individual investors to buy and own shares in artworks by renowned artists like Picasso, Basquiat, and Warhol. They have a rigorous vetting process where art industry experts assess each piece’s historical significance, provenance, and potential appreciation value. Once a work of art is selected, Masterworks buys it and turns it into an investment opportunity. It issues shares that individuals can purchase.
User reviews for Masterworks are generally positive, boasting a 4.1 rating from multiple online sources. Users often praise the platform’s onboarding process, calling it efficient and hassle-free. For example, you can set up an account quickly and make an initial investment confidently.
People appreciate the platform’s educational approach, as Masterworks staff quickly help and explain the art investment process to newcomers. Czar Gacitua, a new user, says:” Very informational. For someone who is not too familiar with art, masterworks were quick to help and explain the process. I learned a great deal”.
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Yieldstreet
Yieldstreet offers a range of alternative investment opportunities across different asset classes. This includes real estate, legal finance, commercial loans, and art. The platform aims to democratize the investment process. It allows individual investors to diversify their portfolios with assets traditionally reserved for institutional investors.
User feedback for Yieldstreet, however, leans more toward the critical side.
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FarmTogether
FarmTogether offers a unique twist in alternative investments by focusing on agricultural real estate. Investors can put their money into various farmland types, including row crops, permanent crops, and livestock operations. The platform employs an in-depth vetting process to ensure the sustainability and profitability of each farm. Various investment models are available, catering to accredited and non-accredited investors, with options for shorter-term or longer-term commitments.
User reviews for FarmTogether are generally favorable, with most users expressing satisfaction with the platform’s transparency and ease of use. The major highlights include the quality of the farms selected, the professionalism of the team, and the diversification benefits that farmland can bring to an investment portfolio. However, it’s worth noting that, like all investments, investing in farmland comes with its own risks and challenges, such as weather conditions and market demand for crops.
Overall, FarmTogether offers a unique and relatively well-received avenue for diversifying one’s investment portfolio.
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iTrustCapital
iTrustCapital is a platform specializing in individual retirement accounts (IRAs) focusing on cryptocurrencies and precious metals. They offer both Traditional and Roth IRAs, giving investors flexibility in their retirement planning. One of the standout features of iTrustCapital is its cryptocurrency options. It allows investors to diversify their portfolio with assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, all within the tax-advantageous wrapper of an IRA.
Reviews frequently highlight the platform’s responsive support team that assists with transaction issues and offers educational guidance. The customer service team is often noted for efficiency, frequently resolving problems within 24 hours. One user shared her story saying:” I was needing to change some things in my ITrust Roth IRA, Mark was very patient and helpful, a great experience. Definitely recommend these guys for you IRA needs”.
Many reviews also highlight the platform’s ease of use and reasonable fee structure. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on more than 2,700 reviews, the general sentiment towards iTrustCapital is overwhelmingly positive. This makes it a strong option for those combining alternative investments with traditional retirement planning.
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Vinovest
Vinovest offers a unique take on alternative investments by focusing on fine wine and whiskey. The platform allows investors to buy, own, and sell bottles of wine and whiskey, all of which are stored in professional storage facilities. With Vinovest, you’re not just investing in a beverage but a luxury good with historical appreciation potential.
Regarding user reviews, the platform holds a 3.6 rating based on 183 reviews. Customers appreciate the wide selection of wine and whiskey options and praise the website’s user-friendly nature. They also note that the platform offers a blend of luxury and investment, capturing the enduring appeal of these beverages. Several users highlighted the knowledgeable team at Vinovest, saying they were always ready to assist and provide insights into the investment process.
Overall, Vinovest is a unique and compelling option for alternative investments in fine wine and whiskey.
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Mainvest
Mainvest offers distinct opportunities for those interested in alternative investments. It focuses on local businesses, allowing investors to put their money into brick-and-mortar establishments in their communities. The platform provides an easy-to-navigate interface and offers various types of businesses. This ranges from restaurants to retail shops.
Regarding user reviews, Mainvest holds its ground with generally positive reviews that highlight its community-centric approach. Users appreciate the ability to invest in local businesses they care about.
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Alto IRA
Alto IRA is known for its Individual Retirement Account (IRA) options, including alternative investments like real estate, startups, and cryptocurrency. The platform is lauded for providing a diversified range of investment opportunities, all under the umbrella of a tax-advantaged account.
Alto IRA receives high marks, particularly for its customer service and various alternative investments. With an impressive 4.4 rating based on 1178 reviews, there is no doubt about how users feel about the platform. Dr Lazaris left a review saying:” The communication and response time with Alto was excellent. Website has good layout and easy to navigate and do what you need to do. So far, I’m impressed and highly recommend Alto”.
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Conclusion
Alternative investments are increasingly capturing the attention of investors for several good reasons. They offer diversification, higher returns, and an opportunity to invest in assets independent of traditional stock or bond markets. This growing interest has led to the rise of specialized platforms that facilitate such investments. This makes it easier than ever to diversify one’s portfolio.
Each platform has features and user reviews, but they all offer something invaluable: the chance to diversify investments in a way that wasn’t easily accessible. So, if you want to venture beyond traditional investment routes, these platforms are excellent places to start.
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