Questions?

1. What are “alternative investments”? These are “financial assets that do not fall into one of the conventional investment categories such as stocks, bonds, and cash. Alternative investments include private equity or venture capital, real estate (for example, farm land or other) and other assets not in the public market”. (Source: Investopedia) Other alternative investments originate as small business funds composed of dental corporations, health chain stores, engineering firms and other traditional, low risk business opportunities. (i.e. not crypto, metals, etc)
2. Are alternative investments regulated? Yes, “Exempt market” securities are issued in Canada under National Instrument 45-106. They are exempt from prospectus requirements and hence require less disclosure than a prospectus offering (in public stock markets). To sell a security in the exempt market, an issuer must ensure that the investor qualifies under one or more “exemptions” such as: a) an offering memorandum from the fund issuer, b) investor net worth greater than $400,000 (including non-financial assets such as a house), c) accredited investor ($5 million+ net worth), d) family, friends and business associates (“angel”) or e) investment is under $10,000.
3. How are Alternative investments different from public market investments? Public market investments like stocks offer high “liquidity” since you can buy and sell in a day (or less) and make a profit (or loss). With Alternative investments, the fund will use your money for a time (for example, 3 to 5 or more years) to achieve the investment objective.
4. How do fees work with Alternative investments? Fees are “built in” to the investment up front costs and the investor does not see them but is informed. If you redeem before the agreed term, there is a penalty that declines by year – for example: no redemption year 1, 6% penalty year 2, 4% penalty year 3, 2% penalty year 4 and no penalty year 5.
5. Do Alternative investments offer dividends? Yes, Alternative investments may offer “distributions” (like monthly or quarterly dividends). In addition or instead, there may be profit potential when the investment is liquidated by management and investors are paid out.
6. Are alternative investments “high risk”? The Securities Commissions classify them as high risk. However, as with any investment, the investor must do his or her own due diligence based on the investment thesis, management, length of term (i.e. illiquidity) and other factors. Alternative investments offer a potential higher return with the higher risk.
7. What are next steps? Look up and press “Click here to inquire…” – then fill in and submit the form. Almega Wealth will contact you to set up an appointment with a licensed advisor. We help you evaluate and ask the right questions… then YOU decide whether alternative investments are in YOUR best interests.

Note: This information is for educational purposes only as we are not licensed to sell or discuss specific alternative investment products. We work with kind and compassionate advisors for your best interests. And for disclosure, we would receive a referral fee if you purchase an alternative investment.