What Are Alternative Investment Assets?
When most people think of investing, they picture the stock market — a 401(k), mutual funds, or maybe a few bonds. For years, I thought the same way. But as I began learning more about wealth building, especially for women, I discovered a whole world of opportunities beyond the traditional paths. These are called alternative investment assets — and they’ve become a key part of how I invest, how I encourage others to invest, and how we can all build wealth with impact.
Looking Beyond Wall Street
So what exactly are alternative investments? Simply put, they’re anything outside of stocks, bonds, and cash. That might sound simple, but it opens up a whole universe. Private equity, venture capital, real estate, commodities, art, collectibles, theater and film, even digital assets like cryptocurrency, all fall under this category. These investments often take longer to pay out, require more research, and come with more risk. But they also bring the potential for outsized returns — and more importantly, the opportunity to align your money with your values.
My First Step Into Alternatives
I still remember the first time I made an alternative investment. It wasn’t in a blue-chip stock or a public fund — it was in a woman-led startup I believed in deeply. I’ll be honest: I was nervous. There was no guarantee of return, no history of stock performance to study, just a passionate founder with a vision. But I believed in her and in what she was building. Years later, that experience taught me something powerful: investing isn’t just about numbers. It’s about people, possibilities, and planting seeds that can grow into something extraordinary. That’s when I knew alternative assets could play a unique role in my portfolio — and in the movement to create more opportunities for women.
The Many Paths Alternatives Can Take
Since then, I’ve explored different types of alternatives. Private equity and venture capital can be life-changing, not only for investors but for the entrepreneurs whose companies we back. Private debt is another option, where investors lend money directly to businesses instead of going through banks. Real estate remains a classic route, offering steady income and a hedge against inflation. Then there are commodities like gold and agriculture, or passion investments like fine art and collectibles. Or in my case, film and theater- which in my opinion makes the most impact because it can really influence culture by raising awareness in an engaging storytelling way.
Why I Believe Alternatives Matter
The reason I talk so much about alternative investments is because they give us something traditional markets rarely do: real diversification. These assets don’t always move with the stock market, so when Wall Street stumbles, your portfolio has other anchors. They also carry the possibility of extraordinary returns. But for me, the most powerful reason is impact. Alternatives give us the ability to put our dollars where our values are — whether that’s funding women-led startups, supporting sustainable projects, or investing in businesses that reflect the change we want to see in the world.
Being Honest About the Risks
Alternative investments require patience. Unlike stocks that you can sell in seconds, many of these assets tie up your money for years. Valuations aren’t always transparent, which can make it hard to know exactly what something is worth. Minimum investment amounts can also be high, creating barriers to entry, or not as high as some people think. For instance, there are many venture funds out there where you’re only required to put in 25K as a minimum. And you could take it from something that perhaps isn’t making much money or an impact, like from your IRA or pension fund.
And the timeline for returns can test even the most patient investor. This is why I always encourage people to do their homework, lean on trusted advisors, and only invest what they can afford to keep locked up for a while.
How to Begin If You’re Curious
If you’re just starting out, my advice is simple: educate yourself. Listen to podcasts (like mine!), read books, and join conversations that demystify the space. Start small — try angel investing groups, crowdfunding platforms, or beginner-friendly funds that give you exposure without overwhelming risk. Choose opportunities that reflect your personal values, because investing is not just about numbers; it’s about meaning. And remember to diversify, spreading your investments across different categories so you’re not putting all your eggs in one basket. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask questions and lean on experts. The right mentors, advisors, and peers can make the journey less intimidating and far more rewarding.
Why This Matters for Us
Alternative assets are about more than just money. They represent access, empowerment, and change. For women, stepping into this space isn’t just about building personal wealth — it’s about claiming our power as investors, influencing the next generation of innovation, and creating the kind of future we want to see. That’s why I’m so passionate about educating women in this space. When we know our options, we invest differently. We invest boldly. And we invest with impact.
Note:
I am not a financial advisor and this is based on my opinion. You should consult with your attorney or wealth advisor before investing in alternative assets.
Catherine Gray
Executive Producer, Show Her the Money
Founder, She Angel Investors
Podcast Host, Invest In Her
Co-Founder, She Angels Foundation
Watch my Ted talk here!
https://youtu.be/Ms-tROEeLn4
