Wall Street Secrets… Pros and Cons of Alternative investments

Mar 13, 2026

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Jade Miller is here to discuss the pros and cons of alternative investments. Jade shares her journey to becoming the CEO of the Alternative & Direct Investment Securities Association (ADISA), her background in private markets, and ADISA's role in advocating for and expanding access to alternatives for financial advisors and investors.

We explore the growing push to include alternative investments in 401(k) plans, investor misunderstanding, and potential regulatory challenges. We also talk the importance of thorough due diligence, common red flags, and the need for greater transparency from fund managers.

We discuss...

Jade Miller discusses her background in private markets, primarily real estate, and her transition to becoming the first CEO of the ADISA.
ADISA's mission is to advocate for alternative investments, provide education and due diligence standards, and connect financial advisors with alternative investment managers.
The alternatives industry is shifting from limited access for wealthy investors toward broader availability, including potential inclusion in 401(k) retirement plans.
Large institutional managers are likely to dominate 401(k) alternative offerings rather than smaller private fund sponsors.
Liquidity constraints and fund structures such as interval and tender-offer funds will likely shape how alternatives are implemented inside retirement plans.
Illiquid investments in retirement accounts can carry a higher risk of fraud or poor diligence because the capital is often locked up for long periods.
Increased transparency and reporting expectations from investors are pushing alternative fund managers to provide more detailed disclosures.
Financial advisors play a key role in helping investors assess alternative opportunities and navigate complex investment structures.
Unrealistically high projected returns and lightly vetted crowdfunding deals can be major warning signs for investors.
Real estate is highlighted as a foundational alternative asset due to its tangible nature, income potential, and long-term demand.
Alternative investments can offer meaningful tax advantages, including depreciation benefits, opportunity zone incentives, and oil and gas deductions.
Roth conversion strategies can sometimes be enhanced through private investments that temporarily reduce valuation during development stages.
Investors and financial advisors who ignore alternative investments risk falling behind as the asset class becomes a larger part of diversified portfolios.