Alternative Investments

The complete guide to alternative investments, from experts working with CFA Institute

Alternative Investments is the definitive guide to understanding non-traditional asset classes. Alternatives are a disparate group of investments that are distinguished from long-only, publicly traded investments in stocks, bonds, and cash (often referred to as traditional investments). Alternative investments include real estate, commodities, infrastructure, and other non-traditional investments such as private equity or debt and hedge funds. They are attractive to investors because of the potential for portfolio diversification resulting in a higher risk-adjusted return for the portfolio.

Alternative Investments and its accompanying workbook (sold separately) lead students and investment professionals through the many characteristics of non-traditional assets, including:

• Narrow specialization of the investment managers
• Relatively low correlation of returns with those of traditional investments
• Less regulation and less transparency than traditional investments
• Limited historical risk and return data
• Unique legal and tax considerations
• Higher fees, often including performance or incentive fees
• Concentrated portfolios
• Restrictions on redemptions (i.e. “lockups” and “gates”)

CFA Institute is the world's premier association for investment professionals, and the governing body for the CFA^® Program, CIPM^® Program, CFA Institute ESG Investing Certificate, and Investment Foundations^® Program. Those seeking a deeper understanding of the markets, mechanisms, and use of alternatives will value the level of expertise CFA Institute brings to the discussion, providing a clear, comprehensive resource for students and professionals alike. Whether used alone or in conjunction with the companion workbook, Alternative Investments offers a complete course in alternative investments and their role in investment management.

CFA Institute is the global association of investment professionals that sets the standard for professional excellence and credentials. The organization is a champion for ethical behavior in investment markets and a respected source of knowledge in the global financial community. The end goal: to create an environment where investors' interests come first, markets function at their best, and economies grow. CFA Institute has more than 170,000 members in 160+ countries and territories, including 163,000 CFA charterholders, and 150+ member societies. For more information, visit www.cfainstitute.org.