The two firms have joined forces to offer, they say, advisors more cost-effective access to illiquid investment opportunities.

BlackRock and Artivest have linked up to launch a platform that provides the advisor community with greater access to the former firm’s menu of alternative investment strategies.

According to a statement, the BlackRock-Artivest partnership will provide: a site to securely review BlackRock offerings; “specialized access funds” for lower-minimum investing; online processes for client onboarding and reporting; and educational content and support to make complex strategies more accessible. 

“This relationship is a first-of-its kind for BlackRock and highlights our continued focus on providing leading portfolio solutions to our advisors and their clients,” said Hollie Fagan, head of BlackRock’s RIA business. “RIAs in particular are placing a greater emphasis on illiquid alternatives to insulate their clients from market volatility while seeking to deliver competitive market returns.”

BlackRock, which has been managing alternatives for over 30 years, has about $120 billion in assets under management across alternative investment strategies.

“Over the past several years we’ve seen a growth in interest in infrastructure from advisors and their qualified investors looking for opportunities that potentially provide differentiated sources of return over the long term,” added Jim Barry, global head of BlackRock Real Assets. “Through this partnership, we will be able to offer a larger segment of investors streamlined and more cost-effective access to illiquid infrastructure opportunities.”