The rise of alternatives and gold 

As market dynamics shift, alternative and private market investments are taking centre stage—reshaping portfolios and redefining investment strategies. In this episode of Investing for Tomorrow, we explore why asset owners are increasing their allocations to private markets, the rise of “Alternatives+++”, and how gold continues to serve as a safe-haven asset in uncertain times. 

Joined by Denise Kehler, Chief Investment Officer, North America at WTW, and Jeremy De Pessemier, Asset Allocation Strategist at the World Gold Council, we explore the trends, innovations, and challenges driving a new approach to portfolio construction—one that emphasises resilience and long-term performance through alternative investments. 

You really have to understand your time horizon. Can I have that long-term perspective and commitment to these assets? Understanding that is a key piece for asset owners when they’re thinking, how much can I embrace of the alternatives space? Equally important is assessing your liquidity preferences and tolerance for complexity.

Denise Kehler, Chief Investment Officer, North America, WTW

Gold is perceived as a safe haven asset. Broadly speaking, that means that during periods of economic uncertainty or heightened geopolitical risks, investors typically turn to gold for protection, pushing its price up. Gold can act like a form of portfolio insurance and help provide downside protection during market turmoil.

Jeremy De Pessemier, Asset Allocation Strategist, World Gold Council

Related pages

Study: Global Asset Owner Peer Study on best practices 

Website: Goldhub 




More Episodes

  • Episode 9
  • December 8, 2025
  • Leadership for a changing world

Join Kirshni Totaram (Coronation Fund Managers), Yolanda Blanch (PC30) and Diya Luke (WTW) as we discuss leadership in a changing world.

  • Episode 8
  • November 5, 2025
  • The next chapter for DC

Join Tim Hodgson (TAI) and Jelena Croad (Lifesight/WTW) as we explore the next chapter for DC pensions.

  • Episode 7
  • October 16, 2025
  • The future of wealth

Join Andrea Caloisi (TAI) and Ellie Lloyd Jones (WTW/atomos wealth) as we explore the future of wealth.

  • Episode 6
  • September 3, 2025
  • Risk 2.0 in practice

Join Benedek Voros, S&P DJI, and Mandy Xu, Cboe Global Markets, as we explore Risk 2.0 in practice.

  • Episode 5
  • July 16, 2025
  • AI and tokenisation: shaping the future of investment and private markets

Join Martin Dietz, L&G, and Christine Moy, Apollo, as we explore how tokenisation, AI and digital innovation are transforming investment.