In today’s increasingly complex and interconnected global markets, traditional investments alone may no longer provide the growth, protection, or diversification that investors seek.

As volatility reshapes public markets, discerning investors are turning to alternative investments—not as a trend, but as a strategic move.

From private equity to venture capital, alternatives offer a compelling path to enhanced portfolio performance, inflation resilience, and high return potential.

Yet, the opportunities within this asset class are as nuanced as they are promising. For those with capital to invest, selecting the right investment partner is paramount. You need an investment firm with access to exclusive opportunities, rigorous due diligence, and strategies tailored to your long-term financial goals.

Understanding your alternative investment strategy is critical. Our goal is to provide you with the clarity, insight, and expertise required to make confident, data-driven decisions as you expand into this dynamic and complex asset class.

Alternative Investments VS Public Investments

Public markets—composed of stocks, bonds, and ETFs—are liquid, transparent, and broadly accessible. While they remain foundational, they also tend to reflect broader market swings and offer limited customization or control.

In contrast, alternative investments—such as private equity and venture capital—are private, often illiquid, and typically accessible only to accredited or institutional investors. Their exclusivity offers access to differentiated strategies with the potential for stronger, uncorrelated returns.

Alternative investments refer to private investments that are not traded publicly such as private equity and venture capital.

One of the most significant distinctions between alternative and public investments is who can access these opportunities.

Alternative investments are inherently private and often reserved for individuals who meet specific criteria, such as accredited investor status or high minimum capital commitments.

This exclusivity not only limits general access but also creates a unique advantage: the opportunity to participate in less correlated strategies that may offer higher return potential compared to traditional public assets.

Examples of Alternative Investments

Private Equity

Private equity is a direct investment in a privately owned company that is not traded on public markets. By directly investing in high-growth private companies, you have the opportunity for higher returns that don’t correlate with public markets.

The primary objective of private equity investing is to generate value by driving operational enhancements, fostering strategic growth, and ultimately achieving a profitable exit.

Sourcing, evaluating, and structuring direct private equity investments is complex—and for many, inaccessible. At Manhattan West, we curate opportunities in sectors such as sports, media, and entertainment, targeting companies at strategic inflection points led by proven management teams.

Manhattan West offers our investors exclusive opportunities to invest in private, high-growth companies in the sports, media, and entertainment sectors. With over two decades of investment experience, Manhattan West leverages our deep industry knowledge and ecosystem of operators and investors to partner with businesses led by exceptional management teams undergoing a strategic inflection point.

Venture Capital

While often lumped together with private equity, venture capital stands apart by focusing on high-growth startups at the forefront of innovation. These companies may carry higher risk, but they also hold the potential for transformative impact in their industries. Partnering with a firm that specializes in venture capital is crucial. The level of due diligence and vetting required to identify the most promising ventures is exhaustive and complex. Manhattan West offers its investors exclusive access to venture capital opportunities in cutting-edge sectors like AI, space exploration, software, and climate technology, industries that are shaping the future of our world.

“We leverage proprietary deal flow to identify and invest in the most innovative founders and market-defining companies,” says Vik Sasi, Chief Strategy Officer at Manhattan West.

With a track record of backing companies that are changing the game, Manhattan West isn’t just investing in companies; they’re investing in the future.

Why Alternative Investments Are Attractive To Investors

Portfolio Diversification

Alternative investments often have a low correlation with traditional asset classes like stocks and bonds. This means they can help reduce overall portfolio volatility and enhance risk-adjusted returns.

Enhanced Return Potential

Private markets may offer superior return potential—particularly when accessed through institutional-quality opportunities and seasoned managers.

Access to Unique Opportunities

Alternatives offer exposure to sectors and opportunities not typically available in public markets.

5 Key Considerations For Investors When Considering Alternative Investing

Your overall investing goals
You must understand your investment goals and overall timeline before investing in alternative assets.

Liquidity
Consider whether your portfolio can support illiquid holdings without compromising cash flow or emergency funding needs.

Investment Timelines
Many alternatives require a long-term view, with capital commitments of 5–10+ years.
Income requirements Determine whether you need predictable distributions or can accommodate irregular payout schedules.

Portfolio Diversity
As an investor with investment capital, you likely already have a diversified portfolio. However, it is key to periodically review your overall investment strategy to ensure it aligns with your revolving financial goals and that they are meeting your expectations.

By adding alternative investments, you can help mitigate risks associated with traditional assets.

CONCLUSION

As the role of alternative investments continues to expand in modern portfolio construction, discerning investors are rethinking traditional models in favor of more agile, resilient strategies.

Whether your objective is capital growth, income generation, or long-term wealth preservation, Manhattan West offers access to private market strategies curated for your unique financial vision.

Our team combines deep sector expertise with institutional-grade diligence to help you confidently navigate this complex and rewarding asset class.