In 2024, we explored the building blocks of financial planning, retirement preparedness, and navigating complex topics like taxes, estate planning, and interest rates. These foundational lessons provided essential tools for understanding and taking control of your financial future.

This year, we’re diving a little deeper. Over the next several weeks, we’ll introduce you to advanced markets and alternative types of investments within the Wall Street arena. These strategies go beyond the basics, offering unique opportunities—but they also come with complexities and risks that aren’t suited for everyone.

A Word of Caution

Before we begin, it’s important to note that this series is for educational purposes only. These aren’t investment recommendations, and the strategies we’ll discuss may not align with your goals, risk tolerance, or financial situation. Always consult a trusted financial professional before considering any advanced investment strategy.

What Are Advanced Markets?

Advanced markets encompass a variety of alternative investment strategies and vehicles designed for investors seeking specific outcomes, like downside protection, enhanced yield, or access to unique asset classes. These strategies often require a deeper understanding of the market and may involve greater complexity, less liquidity, or higher risk.

Typically, these strategies are accessed by veteran professional investors who have the experience and knowledge to navigate their complexities. However, I believe in educating everyone, regardless of their level of experience, because understanding these options can empower you to make informed decisions or simply recognize when they might not be the right fit for you.

Here’s a sneak peek at what we’ll cover in this series:

• Buffered ETFs: Balancing risk and reward with capped gains and downside protection.
• Structured Notes: Tailored investments designed to meet unique goals.
• REITs: Real estate investment trusts that offer diversification and income potential.
• Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs): Tax-advantaged real estate investing with 1031 exchange opportunities.
• Options and Option Overlay Strategies: Tools for managing risk and enhancing income.
• Opportunity Zones: Investments with tax incentives and community impact.
• Hedge Funds: Exploring the high-stakes world of sophisticated strategies.
• Private Equity and Venture Capital: Unlocking growth opportunities in private markets.
• Commodities: Using assets like gold or oil to protect against inflation.
• Foreign Exchange (Forex): Speculating or hedging with currency trading.
• Alternative Investments: From cryptocurrencies to collectibles, diversifying beyond traditional assets.
• Closed-End Funds: An overlooked investment vehicle with unique features.

This series is designed to educate, empower, and help you understand what these options are—and why they may or may not belong in your financial strategy.

We’re excited to explore these advanced topics with you and look forward to continuing this journey of financial empowerment in 2025.

Warmly,

Jeff Perry

Partner, Quest Commonwealth

Co-Host of “Safe Money Mindset” on WXYZ-TV ABC Detroit

Author of “Safe Money Mindset” – Available on Amazon or DISCOUNTED HERE

👉 Watch our latest TV episodes of “Safe Money Mindset” on YouTube

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Jeff Perry is an Investment Advisor Representative registered with Foundations Investment Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Investments include the risk of loss, including the loss of principal.