When looking for liquid alternatives, real estate investment trusts fit the bill.
Diversifiers: Although correlations have varied, REITs have provided significant diversification benefits before and after the Great Recession.
Liquid: The liquidity of REITs has been substantial and growing. In the most difficult market environment, REITs have provided ample liquidity.
Low cost: Passive REIT investment vehicles provide access to real estate at almost no cost.
High returns: Although REITs have high levels of price volatility and slightly more leverage than other asset classes, their returns over the long term have been very high.
*By dollar value traded. Sources: Bloomberg LP; NCREIF
Compiled and designed by Aaron M. Cunningham and Gregg A. Runburg