A self-directed account enables you to diversify into alternative assets that have historically outperformed traditional investments, while allowing you to maintain your desired mix of traditional and alternative options. Discover the many types of alternative investments that can be held in a retirement account.
Investments can include rentals, fix-and-flips, commercial property, raw/ developed land, and much more.
An opportunity to loan funds from your account, with the potential for passive, tax-advantaged income.
Enables you to buy into private companies for potentially significant profits, while securing your financial future.
An alternative to traditional currencies. Potential benefits include decentralization, anonymity, security, and more.
Not tied to the public market performance; has fared well against inflation and economic uncertainty.
It’s possible to hold public and private investments in the same Equity Trust account.
Attractive to investors because of the ease of money movement and market availability.
If you can imagine it, you can probably hold in It in your retirement account.
Changing your investment strategy to include alternative investments can dramatically expand your horizons, both from a return-on-investment and diversification perspective.
What are you investing for? Whether your “why” is retirement, healthcare expenses, or a loved one’s education, we make the journey easy with innovative technology and first-class service.
Traditional financial institutions limit your IRA to traditional investments. With Equity Trust, you can truly diversify into a range of options including real estate, private entities, cryptocurrency, precious metals, and more, in addition to stocks, bonds, and mutual funds – all in one account.
Our size, expertise, and technology help us ensure that we’re there when you need us most. With 500+ associates focused on processing 2.5M+ transactions each year, we work diligently to enhance your experience.
Our knowledgeable, client-focused associates are here to provide dedicated, personalized service, from opening your account to assisting you with investment transactions. You can lean on our more than 50+ years of experience in the financial services industry. Talk to a knowledgeable IRA Counselor
Don’t have an investment in mind? Most custodians establish your account and leave you on your own to figure it out. Our Investment District online marketplace enables you to find potential investment opportunities with the click of a button. Start your search
Access your exclusive, free guide for an extensive list of investment options for your account, plus how to get started.
Browse the tax–advantaged accounts and find one that matches your savings goals – from retirement to education to health care savings.
Discover what you need to know before you make your first investment, including investments not allowed in an IRA and how much you can contribute to your account.
Ready to Get Started?
Our knowledgeable IRA Counselors can answer your questions about the self-directed investing process and share insight and education about our self-directed accounts to help you decide what options may be best for you.
By entering your information and clicking Start a Conversation, you consent to receive reoccurring automated marketing emails about Equity Trust’s products and services. This consent is not required to obtain products and services. If you do not consent to receive emails from Equity Trust and seek information, contact us at 855-233-4382.
1 Equity WayWestlake, OH 44145
Terms of UsePrivacy PolicySite Map
© 2025 Equity Trust®. All rights reserved.
Equity Trust Company is a directed custodian and does not provide tax, legal or investment advice. Any information communicated by Equity Trust Company is for educational purposes only, and should not be construed as tax, legal or investment advice. Whenever making an investment decision, please consult with your tax attorney or financial professional. Equity Institutional services institutional clients of Equity Trust Company. Brokerage Services Available Through ETC Brokerage Services, Member SIPC, and FINRA. *Founded in 1974 | Self-Directed IRA Custodian since 1983. The predecessor business to Equity Trust Company was established in 1974 and the IRS approved as a custodian in 1983. **Assets under custody and administration as of 06/30/2025. 1ici.org, total assets in IRAs as of 12/2024
Terms of UsePrivacy PolicySite Map
© 2025 Equity Trust®. All rights reserved.
Equity Trust Company is a directed custodian and does not provide tax, legal or investment advice. Any information communicated by Equity Trust Company is for educational purposes only, and should not be construed as tax, legal or investment advice. Whenever making an investment decision, please consult with your tax attorney or financial professional. Equity Institutional services institutional clients of Equity Trust Company. Brokerage Services Available Through ETC Brokerage Services, Member SIPC, and FINRA. *Founded in 1974 | Self-Directed IRA Custodian since 1983. The predecessor business to Equity Trust Company was established in 1974 and the IRS approved as a custodian in 1983. **Assets under custody and administration as of 06/30/2025. 1ici.org, total assets in IRAs as of 12/2024
You are leaving trustetc.com to enter the ETC Brokerage Services (Member FINRA/SIPC) website (etcbrokerage.com), the registered broker-dealer affiliate of Equity Trust Company. ETC Brokerage Services provides access to brokerage and investment products which ARE NOT FDIC insured. ETC Brokerage does not provide investment advice or recommendations as to any investment. All investments are selected and made solely by self-directed account owners.
Continue
Browse platforms and providers in private equity, cryptocurrency, lending, real estate, and precious metals asset classes – all in one place.
