Sixteen years ago, alternative investments barely featured in most portfolios, aside from a modest allocation to commodities. Options for retail investors were limited, with most alternatives either prohibitively expensive or inaccessible. 

Today, portfolios tell a completely different story, with many being dedicated to alternatives like private equity, private credit, and reinsurance, reflecting how the landscape has evolved. 

Advances such as interval funds and lower fee structures have opened doors for individual investors to tap into the benefits of these assets, including the sought-after illiquidity premium. Unlike the past, where high fees often negated returns, competitive pricing and improved liquidity have made alternatives a more viable choice. 

Finsum: These innovations now allow for greater diversification and the potential to cushion traditional portfolios against market volatility.