Interest rates are dropping. Bitcoin is booming. And the stock market is like Facebook—only the boomers are there anymore. 

Here comes alternative investments, once only available for institutions and those with enough money to qualify and be accredited. But times are changing, and the democratization of alts is here. 

From the launch of Bitcoin (and Ethereum) ETFs to the likes of Blackstone and Apollo and BlackRock (and more) raising bundles of money for illiquid funds and other alternative vehicles, financial advisors have more options than ever to offer to clients.

Are they all right for all investors? Of course not. Could advisors run afoul of the SEC’s Regulation Best Interest by offering them? That remains to be seen.

What is certain is that alts aren’t going anywhere. There’s just too much money to be made with them right now. 

Take a look back at some of the coverage and how our editors covered the rising tide of alternative investments throughout 2024.