5 Top Alternative Funds

So-called alternative funds offer just what they advertise: non-correlated assets in a convenient ’40 Act wrapper. For those that still lack understanding, or are wary of the “all-in” alternative product, the fund route can help ease the transition to something (anything) that might reduce volatility without completely negating return.

With the help of Morningstar, SmartMoney compiled a list of the top 25 performing products in the space, based on 5-year performance. Many that made the list will be immediately recognizable to AdvisorOne readers for their regular contributions and the boost they’ve given this rapidly evolving sector.

5) Vanguard Wellesley Income Investor (VWINX)

Gee, Vanguard made the list; we’re so surprised. Vanguard doesn’t make the “best funds you’ve never heard of” lists. No, it just makes the “best funds” lists. The Pennsylvania powerhouse and brainchild of the legendary John Bogle recently defended exchange-traded funds, but all is well in mutual fund land. Vanguard comes in at No. 22 on the list.   

4) MFS Lifetime Retirement Income (MLLAX)

We’re immediately drawn to any fund product with lifetime retirement income in the title, and one from the company to claim development of the very first mutual fund makes in doubly so. Bob Pozen, the company’s chairman emiterus, is taking up the flag for the retirement income cause.

As a kenote speaker at AdvisorOne’s Retirement Income Symposium last October, Pozen listed four ways that retirees can convert savings into an income stream: systematic withdrawals, a managed distribution fund, partial annuitization at age 65 or annuitization at age 80. With longevity risk on the rise, why do fewer than 10% of pension recipients choose lifetime annuity income? He speculated that people want more flexibility to leave their money to their kids or keep it for a healthcare emergency. 

MFS is listed as No. 16 by SmartMoney.

3) James Balanced: Golden Rainbow (GLRBX)

The firm knows alpha—literally; it resides in Alpha, Ohio. Something named the Golden Rainbow has to be good, and James doesn’t disappoint. With assets of $1.3 billion, its top holding is U.S. Treasury notes.  And like FPA Crescent’s Romick, the fund routinely makes the overlooked/undiscovered manager lists.

According to the firm, which is led by Barry James, the James Balanced: Golden Rainbow Fund seeks to provide total return through a combination of growth and income and preservation of capital in declining markets. It comes in at No. 9 on SmartMoney’s list.