5 Best Alternative Investments for 2019

Many people only think of stocks and bonds when someone mentions investments. A fewer number will think of real estate or gold and other metals investments. But did you know there are alternative investments that could also bring you money in 2019 outside the usual type of investments? Consider the following alternative investment types:

1. Peer-to-peer lending

This is a relatively new investment option. You can choose to join a pool of investors who loan money to individuals for their business or personal needs. It's an online service that doesn't involve a bank, just people willing to make a loan. As an investor, you can get really high rates and your return can even get doubled. Every month, you receive a fixed payment together with the interest. The only risk here is that you could loan money to individuals that couldn't loan money from a bank. Still, it's up to you to determine the credit rating or whether you will give the loan at all.

2. Private equity

Many private companies have the investor capital. Firms with private equity usually raise funds and take capital from various investors, both institutional and non-institutional ones. Those funds are then invested in private companies with a good chance of success. After an acquisition or an IPO, the investors get their capital back. In short, private equity means several types of investment, including investing in venture capital and start-ups, as well as in the company's phases.

3. Investing in grain

This type of investment means investing in cheap and tangible assets. The good thing about investing in some type of grains is that the agricultural grains market isn't dependable on the economic transitions and it has been that way for a half a century. What really affects grain prices is the constant global population growth, improved production capacity and standard of living in many countries. As more people are eating chicken and beef, especially in China and India, it's clear that more grains are needed for feeding livestock. Also, a bigger demand for wheat means it's smart to monitor wheat prices for comparison and to know when and where to invest in wheat and other grains. Lastly, as some countries lack water for growing grains, it's understandable why they are ready to import large quantities of them.

4. Starting your own business

Using your own money to start your own business is also an investment. You are investing in yourself. Of all the investment options you have, this one could bring you the highest profit. On the other hand, it can also lead you in really big financial problems. Still, many businesses improve over time and grow their income steadily.
If you have been considering starting your own business, think about consulting services or an online business. Next, you'll have two options. The first one is to invest some of your money and not risk too much. The other one is to also have a part-time business so that you can also rely on your regular job. Of course, there's always the risk that your business will fail, but the size of the risk is up to you.

5. Equity crowdfunding

You don't have to start your own company - you can own a part of someone else's. There are many equity crowdfunding sites where start-up companies offer shares in exchange for money. If you invest your money and buy shares in a promising business, you may earn a lot in case it really thrives. Of course, there's always the risk of losing the money in case the company fails. Still, there are many encouraging stories where a company became highly successful through equity crowdfunding, making the co-owners rich, too. If you don't want to risk too much, you can always invest in crowdfunding with just a couple hundred of dollars.

All in all

Investments come in many shapes. If you are willing to make an investment, you only need to do your research and choose something you feel comfortable investing in. Expand your options and consider alternative investments.