Alternative investments are assets that fall outside traditional stock and bond markets. Common examples include private equity, private credit, hedge funds, and real estate.
These strategies are often considered by high-net-worth and institutional investors seeking diversification, risk-adjusted returns, or non-correlated performance.
Among these alternatives, private equity and private credit are two distinct but sometimes conflated categories. Understanding how they differ is crucial when evaluating them for your financial plan.
Private equity (PE) refers to direct investments in private companies or buyouts of public companies that are taken private.
PE firms raise capital from institutional and high-net-worth investors to acquire equity stakes in businesses. These investments typically involve active management, operational restructuring, and strategic initiatives aimed at increasing the company’s value.
The objective is long-term capital appreciation, often realized through an IPO, acquisition, or secondary sale. Due to the nature of these investments, capital is typically locked up for 7 to 10 years or more, and returns can vary widely depending on execution and market conditions.
Private credit involves direct lending to companies, often those underserved by traditional banks. Unlike private equity, private credit investors do not take ownership of the company. Instead, they provide loans and earn returns through regular interest payments.
This strategy is generally more focused on income generation and capital preservation than growth. While typically less volatile than equity-based strategies, private credit still carries risks, including default risk, illiquidity, and interest rate sensitivity.
Private equity involves buying ownership stakes in companies for long-term growth, while private credit refers to lending capital for more stable, income-oriented returns. The two differ in ownership, return expectations, risk levels, and liquidity.
| Feature | Private Equity | Private Credit |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Yes | No |
| Return Type | Capital appreciation | Interest income |
| Volatility | High | Moderate |
| Liquidity | Low | Moderate |
| Risk Type | Business/market risk | Credit/default risk |
| Time Horizon | Long-term | Mid-to-long term |
These investments are generally limited to accredited or qualified investors and may not be suitable for every portfolio. A detailed review of your financial goals, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs is essential before allocating capital to either strategy.
Neither strategy is guaranteed to produce returns, and both involve the risk of loss.
Private investments are not publicly traded, are not registered with the SEC, and are not subject to the same regulatory oversight as traditional investments. They are also not insured by the FDIC or any other government agency.
Private credit has seen a surge in interest as traditional banks tighten lending practices. Meanwhile, private equity remains appealing to long-term investors seeking exposure to innovative private markets.
These strategies may play a complementary role for qualified investors with a long time horizon or need for portfolio diversification.
Private equity involves ownership and long-term growth, while private credit involves lending for income.
Private credit is typically less volatile but still carries credit and liquidity risk. Neither investment is risk-free.
They may be suitable for high-net-worth individuals with sufficient liquidity and a long time horizon. Suitability depends on your broader financial plan.
To learn whether private equity or private credit could complement your investment strategy, schedule a personalized consultation with one of our experienced advisors.
There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will outperform a non-diversified portfolio or that diversification among asset classes will reduce risk.
This blog is educational and is not advice or a recommendation for any specific investment product, strategy, or service. Investing involves risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results.
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Hattie Warren, CFP®, is a research and planning analyst at Spaugh Dameron Tenny, where she collaborates with advisors to create tailored strategies for physicians, dentists, executives, and retirees facing complex financial decisions. Driven by her personal experience of managing medical school debt alongside her physician spouse, Hattie brings empathy and accuracy to her planning approach. She attained the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation in 2025 and is dedicated to helping clients make informed, values-driven financial choices.
*Does not offer investment advisory services through MML Investors Services.
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