In this episode of Advisor Wars, sponsored by Obsidian CIO, hosts Bob Huebscher (founder of Advisor Perspectives) and Joe Halpern (Managing Partner and CIO of Obsidian CIO) provide a comprehensive framework for financial advisors seeking to incorporate alternative investments into client portfolios with confidence and competence.
This episode moves beyond theoretical benefits to deliver practical, actionable guidance on the five critical requirements for safely and effectively allocating alternatives. The conversation explores everything from client suitability and portfolio sizing to due diligence frameworks, operational workflows, and client communication strategies that build trust while managing expectations.
Whether you are just beginning to explore alternatives or looking to refine your existing approach, this episode provides the strategic blueprint needed to implement a successful alternatives program that serves your clients’ best interests including:
Master Client Suitability – learn how to assess whether alternatives are appropriate for specific clients.
Understand Portfolio Exposure – Discover how to analyze existing client exposures and identify diversification opportunities.
Build a Robust Due Diligence Framework – Gain insights into conducting thorough investment analysis.
Navigate Operational Complexity – Understand the subscription process, ongoing reporting requirements, tax documentation challenges, and the critical importance of platforms like iCapital and CAIS.
Determine Appropriate Sizing – Learn practical guidelines for allocation sizing based on client circumstances.
Navigate Client Communication – Develop effective strategies for explaining illiquidity risks and setting realistic expectations.
Avoid Common Mistakes – Understand the biggest errors advisors make when introducing alternatives.
Subscribe to Investment Wars on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify to ensure you never miss an episode.
Listeners can download the new White Paper by Obsidian CIO, here:
How to Scale Your RIA to $1 Billion AUM and Beyond
—
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE: Obsidian CIO LLC sponsors the podcast to further education and critical thinking about the factors that affect markets and investing, and the podcast does not provide investment advice. Investment advice is only offered to clients of Obsidian CIO who have entered into an advisory agreement and with whom Obsidian CIO has identified individual objectives, risk tolerance, and other investment needs.
