Charles Schwab announced that Schwab Alternative Investments Select, its new alternative investments platform, is now available to all eligible retail clients with more than $5 million in household assets at Schwab.

The new offer expands on Schwab’s comprehensive wealth management capabilities that serve high net worth (HNW) and ultra-high net worth (UHNW) clients who are seeking to supplement their investments with non-traditional approaches and access to private markets to meet their portfolio goals. The offer was initially rolled out to a smaller group of clients beginning in October 2024 and is now available to all eligible Schwab retail clients, including those enrolled in Schwab Wealth Advisory, Schwab’s premier wealth management offer.

“As our large and growing HNW and UHNW client base continues to turn to Schwab to meet a broad array of wealth, advice and investing needs, we are committed to continuing to expand our capabilities to serve their evolving needs and preferences,” said Neesha Hathi, head of Schwab Wealth & Advice Solutions at Charles Schwab. “With the launch of Schwab Alternative Investments Select, we’re excited to now offer eligible retail clients access to a growing alternative investments platform, along with the specialized expertise, service and support we know they deeply value.”

The new offer comes as demand for alternative investments continues. A recent survey of Schwab’s HNW clients shows that more than half expect to have at least 5% of their portfolio allocated to alternative investments over the next three years.

Schwab’s offer includes a curated shelf of third-party alternative investment funds across select asset classes including private equity, hedge funds, private credit and private real estate. The funds undergo thorough ongoing due diligence reviews. As Schwab continues to expand the platform, the firm will add additional asset classes, including exchange funds, and broaden the menu of funds in each category.

The offer is supported by iCapital’s industry leading technology, which will digitize and streamline the enrollment and investment experience for clients.

Clients who invest through Schwab Alternative Investments Select will also have access to Schwab Alternative Investment Consultants, who will work with clients on alternative investment recommendations for their portfolios and provide education and specialized support. Clients will also continue to work with their financial consultant, wealth consultant or wealth advisor who provide guidance and support for their broader investment portfolio and wealth management goals.

Amanda Umpierrez

Managing Editor at 401(k) Specialist | Web |  + postsBio ⮌

Amanda Umpierrez is the Managing Editor of 401(k) Specialist magazine. She is a financial services reporter with nearly a decade of experience and a passion for telling stories and reporting news. She is originally from Queens, New York, but now resides in Denver, Colorado.