In this episode of "What's the Alternative," host Shana Sissel sits down with Mario Valente, Portfolio Manager and Deputy Chief Investment Officer at Stansberry Asset Management, to explore the evolving landscape of private credit. Together, they discuss how this asset class has grown significantly since the financial crisis, filling the capital void left by traditional banks. Unlike public credit, private credit offers unique challenges and opportunities, emphasizing the critical importance of manager selection and thorough due diligence.

Mario shares insights on the diverse market of private credit, from senior secured loans to niche sectors like B2B SaaS and innovative healthcare. He highlights how effective management can enhance returns through careful loan structuring and why selecting niche managers with operational expertise is essential. Additionally, the conversation addresses how interest rates impact private credit, with managers leveraging their unique positions to maintain stable returns regardless of market fluctuations.

Key Takeaways:

• Growth of Private Credit: This asset class has become an essential capital provider, particularly for markets often overlooked by traditional banks.
• Crucial Manager Selection: Choosing the right managers with relevant expertise is vital for successful investments in private credit.
• Interest Rate Resilience: Private credit can offer stability and consistent returns, even amidst changing interest rates.
• Niche Market Opportunities: Targeting specific sectors can lead to diverse and lucrative investment strategies.

Join us for this insightful discussion and subscribe to our podcast for more expert insights!

Connect with us!

• Mario Valente, CFA on LinkedIn
• Stansberry Asset Management
• Shana Orczyk Sissel on LinkedIn
• Banríon Capital Management

In this episode of What’s the Alternative, host Shana Orczyk Sissel sits down with Bob Elliott, Founder, CEO & CIO of Unlimited Funds, to unpack the true potential of alternative investments for advisors and investors. They cover hedge fund fees, the rise and struggles of liquid alternatives, global macro and managed futures, hedge fund replication challenges, and Unlimited Funds’ HFND flagship — plus upcoming launches like liquid venture capital. If you want practical guidance on how alternatives can improve portfolio diversification and how to access low-cost, diversified strategies, this episode is for you.

Key takeaways:

• Traditional hedge funds often charge high fees that can erode net returns; low-cost alternatives are increasingly viable.
• The liquid alternatives category has grown rapidly but faces significant structural and classification challenges.
• Alternatives (global macro, managed futures, etc.) offer true diversification when understood and implemented correctly.
• Accurately tracking hedge fund positions is difficult but essential for replicating exposures and assessing risk.
• Advisors should evaluate how alternative strategies fit within overall portfolio construction, focusing on cost, diversification, and implementation.

Connect with us!

• Bob Elliott on LinkedIn
• Bob Elliott on X
• Unlimited Funds Website
• Shana Orczyk Sissel on LinkedIn
• Shana Orczyk Sissel on X
• Banríon Capital Management

In this episode of 'What's the Alternative?', Shana Orczyk Sissel, founder and CEO of Banrion Capital Management, chats with Jeremy Schwartz, Global Chief Investment Officer at WisdomTree. They delve into their groundbreaking collaboration—a cutting-edge ETF model that blends traditional investments with innovative alternatives. Discover how a 60/40 portfolio can be supercharged with a 20% allocation to alternatives through the concept of return stacking. The discussion highlights the strategic use of leverage, the benefits of WisdomTree's open architecture approach, and the pivotal role of Quorus in seamless model implementation.

The conversation between Shana and Jeremy provides valuable insights into how innovative approaches and collaborations can redefine the world of alternative investments. To learn more about WisdomTree and their offerings, interested parties can reach out to the contacts provided in the show notes.

Key Takeaways:

• Return Stacking: WisdomTree's approach to integrating alternative investments allows for enhanced return potential without compromising core equity positions.
• Understanding Leverage: Leverage, if used intelligently, can be a powerful tool in portfolio management, providing ample opportunity for gains.
• Diversification through Alternatives: Incorporating a well-selected mix of alternative investments can diversify a portfolio, reduce risk, and enhance returns.
• Efficient Implementation: Collaborations with platforms like Quorus make it easier for advisors to integrate and manage complex investment models efficiently.

Connect with us!

• Jeremy Schwartz on LinkedIn
• WisdomTree Website
• Quorus Website
• Shana Orczyk Sissel on LinkedIn
• Banríon Capital Management