IA report: Wealth managers show 'significant' interest in private assets despite barriers

LTAFs slated to address lack of suitable vehicles

Wealth managers are increasingly looking to invest in private assets on behalf of clients, but a lack of appropriate vehicles, regulatory barriers and higher costs often stand in the way, according to research by the Investment Association and investment platform Goji.

According to the research, 80% of 24 surveyed wealth managers, with over £270bn of investment assets between them, already invest private assets for their clients to deliver greater diversification and return potential. But operational and regulatory challenges hinder progress in the space and prevent greater allocations, the report stated. Existing allocations are small and include private equity, real estate and infrastructure - assets that traditionally provide additional diversification, enhanced performance and an additional source of income. HNW investors' demand driving priv...