Assets
Traditional markets and private assets, under one roof
What an account may hold depends on the account type, governing documents, and applicable tax and securities rules.
The promise of a single custody platform is range — the ability to hold a public index fund and a private-fund interest in the same place, under the same standard of care. The catch is that each asset class carries its own rules. Here is the menu, and the fine print that travels with it.
Traditional assets
- Stocks & ETFs — publicly traded equities and exchange-traded funds.
- Mutual funds — pooled, professionally managed funds.
- Bonds & fixed income — government, municipal, and corporate debt.
- Cash & money market — the liquidity that pays fees, expenses, and taxes.
Alternative assets
- Real estate — rental property, land, and notes secured by property.
- Private equity & venture — direct stakes and fund interests in private companies.
- Private credit & promissory notes — lending, secured and unsecured.
- Precious metals — in permitted forms and approved custody.
- Digital assets — where supported by the platform.
- Stablecoins — dollar-pegged digital tokens for settlement and treasury.
What each account can hold
The menu above is the platform’s full range; any given account draws from it based on the account type, its governing documents, and applicable tax and securities rules. A self-directed IRA can hold most alternatives; a 529 draws from its plan’s options; a trust follows its instrument. Start from the account you want to see what applies.
The rules that apply
Some assets and transactions are restricted or prohibited outright. Collectibles and life insurance generally cannot be held in an IRA. Transactions with disqualified persons — you, close family, and entities you control — are prohibited and can disqualify the entire account. Leverage inside a retirement account can create unrelated-business or debt-financed-income tax. None of these is a reason to avoid alternatives; each is a reason to price the rules in before the returns.
Valuations and cash
Two obligations attach to every alternative holding: a supportable valuation, recorded at least annually for reporting, and enough cash in the account to cover fees, expenses, and any taxes. A good investment can still force a distribution if the account runs dry.
How we custody it
Whatever the asset, Investor Services holds it in your account’s name and processes the transactions you direct. As a directed, non-discretionary custodian, we do not evaluate, recommend, or approve any investment. Requires legal & tax review
Educational only. This page is general information, not individualized investment, legal, or tax advice. Rules depend on your account type, transaction, tax year, and circumstances — consult a qualified professional.