Asset Class Return Comparator

Private markets have historically offered higher return potential in exchange for illiquidity and complexity. This tool shows how the return ranges compare across major asset classes — including the dispersion that makes manager selection critical.


Return ranges
Characteristics
Bar width represents the range between bottom-quartile and top-quartile historical performance. Wider bar = more dispersion.
Detailed return ranges
Asset ClassLowMedianHigh
Public Equities
Long-term historical average
+7%+10%+12%
Public Bonds
Long-term historical average
+3%+5%+6%
Private Real Estate
CEM Benchmarking, NCREIF
+8%+11%+16%
Private Equity
Cambridge Associates, Harris et al.
+8%+15%+22%
Venture Capital
Harris, Jenkinson, Kaplan & Stucke
-8%+12%+45%
Data context
Return ranges reflect long-term historical patterns across multiple vintages and market cycles
Private market returns are reported as IRR; public market returns as time-weighted — direct comparison has known limitations
Minimum investments shown are typical ranges and vary by fund and platform
Venture capital shows the widest dispersion — outcomes depend heavily on manager quality and vintage

Return ranges shown are based on long-term historical data from published institutional sources. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Private market returns reflect reported IRR which may differ from time-weighted returns used for public markets. Asset class characteristics, risks, and liquidity profiles differ substantially.

Esinli Capital is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, or member of FINRA or SIPC. Nothing on this page constitutes investment advice, tax advice, or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. All inputs are illustrative. All outputs are estimates based on simplified models. Consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

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