iCapital Network, a New York City-based alternatives platform for high-net-worth investors, and the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) Association in Amherst, Mass., today announced the launch of AltsEdge, an education initiative designed to help advisors better understand alternative investments and how they can leverage these products to improve client outcomes.
“The best results occur when financial advisors and their clients are appropriately informed on the risks and considerations of investing in alternatives,” Lawrence Calcano, chairman and CEO of iCapital Network, said in a news release announcing the launch of the educational program. “This program represents both our commitment to our clients’ success and a significant leap forward for the alternative investments education marketplace.”
The AltsEdge program will initially consist of 10 guided modules covering an overview of the private markets, various types of strategies and product structures, hedge funds, registered funds and portfolio construction. The modules, which take an advisor from foundational knowledge through the practical considerations of employing alternatives, are hosted on a learning management system that includes in-program learning assessments and the opportunity for continuing education credits.
This product-agnostic program is a joint venture of iCapital’s newly created 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the iCapital Foundation, which focuses on advisor and investor education alongside other social and community support initiatives. The nonprofit will host the education program in partnership with the CAIA Association, a credentialling body in the alternatives industry.
The 10-part educational program will cover the following topics:
1. Using Alternatives Wisely
2. Understanding the Private Markets
3. Private Equity I
4. Hedge Funds I: Industry Overview and Market Opportunities
5. Private Credit
6. Hedge Funds II: Investment Strategies and Portfolio Considerations
7. Real Assets
8. Understanding Registered Funds
9. Incorporating Registered Funds in Client Portfolios
10. Portfolio Construction
The first four modules are available now. Advisors can learn more about the program at https://www.icapitalnetwork.com/altsedge/ .
