The Future of Alternative Investments

In the latest episode of March to a Million, host Greg DuPont and co-host Matt Halloran welcome Shana Sissel, CEO and Founder of Banríon Capital. Known as the "Queen of Alts," Shana is at the forefront of revolutionizing alternative investments for financial advisors. This conversation dives deep into the growing role of alternatives, the barriers that have traditionally kept advisors out, and how Banríon Capital is creating new opportunities for wealth professionals to better serve their clients.

Why Alternative Investments Matter

As the public market consolidates and investment opportunities shift, alternative investments—such as private equity, private credit, and real estate—have grown significantly. However, accessing these investments has historically been limited to institutional investors and ultra-high-net-worth individuals.

Shana makes a compelling case for why financial advisors must expand their knowledge and access to alternatives:

• Diversification & Risk Management – Alternatives provide portfolio stability, reducing volatility and allowing clients to stick with their investment plans.

• Competitive Differentiation – Advisors who offer access to unique alternative investments stand out in an increasingly commoditized industry.

• Client-Centric Solutions – Many alternative investments align with client values, such as impact investing and ESG-driven opportunities.

Breaking Down the Barriers

Despite their potential, alternative investments have been difficult for financial advisors to navigate due to:

• High investment minimums

• Complex due diligence requirements

• Limited access outside of major institutional platforms

• Challenges in integrating alternatives into existing wealth management systems

Banríon Capital is tackling these challenges head-on with a seamless platform that allows advisors to discover, vet, and integrate alternative investments without the traditional roadblocks.

How Banríon Capital is Changing the Game

Banríon Capital provides a financial technology platform that streamlines the alternative investment process for financial advisors. Some of its key features include:

• Investment Discovery & Due Diligence – A robust screening process ensures that advisors can confidently select investments that fit their clients' needs.

• Seamless Digital Onboarding – Eliminating paperwork bottlenecks and simplifying investment execution.

• Portfolio Integration – Direct connectivity with major reporting platforms like Orion, Black Diamond, and Addepar for a smooth user experience.

• Personalized Client Matching – Using AI-driven insights to align investment opportunities with client goals and risk tolerance.

Who Should Consider Alternative Investments?

Shana emphasizes that alternatives are not just for the ultra-wealthy anymore. Many estate planning and wealth management clients can now access private market opportunities that were once out of reach. However, she also notes that alternatives may not be ideal for:

• Clients needing full liquidity – Many alternative investments require capital lockups.

• DIY investors – This space is best suited for clients who work with financial professionals.

• Advisors hesitant about complexity – While education and resources are available, a willingness to learn is essential.

The Advisor’s Advantage

For advisors looking to differentiate themselves, offering alternatives is a game-changer. It allows them to:

• Deliver unique investment opportunities beyond traditional stocks and bonds.

• Strengthen client relationships by aligning investments with personal values.

• Position themselves as trusted financial architects rather than just asset managers.

As Greg DuPont points out, "Our job isn’t to know every single tool—our job is to know the right questions to ask and connect our clients with the best solutions. That’s where the real value is."

Final Thoughts

The financial landscape is evolving, and advisors who embrace alternative investments will be at the forefront of this shift. With platforms like Banríon Capital removing traditional barriers, now is the time to explore how alternatives can enhance client portfolios and strengthen advisory businesses.

For those seeking to elevate their practice, build stronger client relationships, and offer a more diverse range of investment solutions, alternative investments aren’t just an option—they're a necessity.

Join the conversation and stay ahead in wealth management with March to a Million and the Wealth Solutions Network.