Fraser Willson
August 13, 2025
The Importance of Alternative Investments in Uncertain Times
In today’s unpredictable economic climate, traditional investments like stocks and bonds can leave portfolios vulnerable to market volatility. This is where alternative investments can come into play, offering a strategic way to help diversify and stabilize your portfolio.
Alternative investments include private equity, real estate, infrastructure, hedge funds, and other assets not tied to public markets. Their appeal lies in their low correlation with traditional asset classes, which can help reduce risk while maintaining growth potential. For example, during market downturns, alternatives often perform differently than stocks or bonds, which can help in providing a cushion against losses.
A local success story highlights the value of alternative investments. AGNORA, a Collingwood-based leader in oversized architectural glass fabrication, received backing from the Kensington Private Equity Fund. This partnership not only supported AGNORA’s growth but also offered investors access to a high-performing private company. Such opportunities demonstrate how private equity can drive both community development and portfolio resilience.
By incorporating alternatives into your portfolio, you can enhance diversification, protect against inflation, and potentially achieve higher risk-adjusted returns—all crucial in uncertain times.
To learn more about how alternative investments may help with your financial future, give me a call.
Fraser Willson, CFP, CIM | Senior Wealth Advisor | CIBC Wood Gundy | Collingwood | Fraser.Willson@cibc.com | (647) 588-4344
CIBC Private Wealth consists of services provided by CIBC and certain of its subsidiaries, including CIBC Wood Gundy, a division of CIBC World Markets Inc. The CIBC logo and “CIBC Private Wealth” are trademarks of CIBC, used under license. “Wood Gundy” is a registered trademark of CIBC World Markets Inc. Fraser is an Investment Advisor with CIBC Wood Gundy in Collingwood. The views of Fraser do not necessarily reflect those of CIBC World Markets Inc. Clients are advised to seek advice regarding their particular circumstances from their personal tax and legal advisors. If you are currently a CIBC Wood Gundy client, please contact your Investment Advisor. This information, including any opinion, is based on various sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. Clients are advised to seek advice regarding their particular circumstances from their personal tax and legal advisors If you are currently a CIBC Wood Gundy client, please contact your Investment Advisor.


