As investors seek alpha in their investment portfolios, alternative asset classes are proving to be an attractive haven for capital.
Over the past year, investors poured nearly $875 billion into the major asset classes and their smaller alternatives. Still, a near-record amount of uninvested capital is waiting to be deployed. Rising interest rates, inflation, geopolitical uncertainty, tightening monetary policy, and recession fears slowed down investment activity in Q2. Meanwhile, pricing metrics have readjusted, with downward pressure across all asset classes. The best located, best quality product, with strong tenancy will be minimally impacted. Real estate’s position as an inflation hedge and consistent source of income, along with its historical stability, remains appealing to investors.
Alternative assets are now a prominent focus in investment portfolios. Single-family rental (SFR), life sciences, data centers, student housing, and self-storage are benefitting from broader demographic trends, increased capital allocations, and their now clearly recognized status as institutional asset classes. These product types require additional operational know-how and understanding. Private equity, pension, sovereign wealth funds, insurance companies, and family offices, among others, have these asset types on their buy lists. Owners with the necessary specialized knowledge are raising capital and partnering with equity sources throughout the country.
As investors seek alpha in their investment portfolios, alternative asset classes are proving to be an attractive haven for capital. Many are in the early innings of their maturation, suggesting the opportunity for outsized returns. This report will explore each asset class, its outlook, and key trends within the space.