Course Description

When markets are difficult to navigate using traditional stock and bond allocations, investors often look to alternative investments to provide additional return, increase diversification, or simply as an inflation hedge. However, deciphering what exactly alternative investments are can be tricky and not always clearly defined. In this class, we explore investments in real estate, private equity, and hedge funds – three common types of alternative investments. We will look at common characteristics, fee structures, and even when these might be helpful to an investor. If clients are asking about these unique areas of the investment world, this is the course for you!

Learning Objectives

  • Identify the differences between direct and indirect investments in real estate.

  • Recognize common fee structures and key terms for private equity and hedge fund investments

  • State the differences in alternative investments.

Additional Required Materials

  • Level: Overview

  • Field of Study: Finance (NASBA); Investment Planning (CFP)

  • Who Should Attend: Accountants and financial advisors who work with clients interested in alternative investments

  • Required Knowledge: None

  • Advanced Prep: None

Instructor

CPA, CPCU, MST, MBA David Peters

David Peters is the Founder and Owner of Peters Tax Preparation & Consulting in Richmond, VA. He has over fourteen years of experience in financial services, including 3 years in the hedge fund industry and six years in the insurance industry. David was the first-ever Chief Financial Officer at Compare.com - a position he held for over three years. He is a national CPE Instructor/Discussion Leader for the AICPA, Surgent, and Kaplan. He regularly teaches courses in accounting, finance, insurance, and ethics throughout the United States. He holds four Masters degrees and contributes regularly to various CPA publications, including NCACPA’s Interim Report, SCACPA’s CPA Report, and VSCPA’s Disclosures. He was also a co-author of the 2018 Virginia CPA Ethics course – a required course for all CPA’s licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia.