Leading private banks are scrambling to boost their private equity operations, claiming the hard-to-reach asset class will give clients the returns they need, and bring in healthy fees to boot. But haven’t we seen this all before, back when structured products and hedge funds were all the rage?

While sectors like hospitality, retail and offices have been hit hard by the pandemic, others, such as logistics, are thriving. How should investors be responding to this upheaval?

Working from home may have become the norm during the pandemic, but its is doubtful companies will drastically cut back on their property portfolios, though a focus on sustainability and employee wellness is likely to increase

Private banks, who were already promoting private equity before Covid-19 hit, now see even more opportunities in the sector as a result of depressed company valuations

Concerns about whether bonds still provide protection against falling equities has prompted banks to look elsewhere for diversification

High net worth investors, with their long-term time horizons, appear a great fit for alternative investments, but picking the right partners is vital

Although many private banks are forecasting strong returns from private equity over the next few years, some believe the asset class could be in for a rough ride

Investment grade collectibles offer not only the joy of ownership but diversified returns and a hedge against inflation. Yet with markets like fine art opaque and illiquid, access to advice is essential