It’s a common misconception that the only investments allowed in a retirement account are stocks, CDs, and mutual funds. Perhaps this is because the retirement industry is dominated by custodians who only offer these types of investments. In fact, it is permissible for your IRA to invest in a variety of alternative assets — you just need a custodian that offers self-direction.

There are tax-free or tax-deferred retirement, health, and educational savings accounts provide the opportunity to save money for the future on a tax-deferred or tax-free basis. Self-directed accounts also allow you to benefit from a variety of alternative investments not available through traditional retirement accounts.