Adam Bergman

Top Energy Investing Platforms to Consider in 2026

Energy investing has quietly become one of the most compelling alternative asset classes available to investors today. As global energy demand grows and the transition toward renewable and infrastructure driven solutions accelerates, more investors are looking beyond public stocks and ETFs for direct exposure to energy related assets.

Institutional investors have used energy investments for decades to generate income, hedge inflation, and diversify portfolios. What has changed is access. Today, a growing number of online platforms allow individual investors to participate in private energy deals, renewable projects, and energy infrastructure opportunities that were once off limits.

Below is an overview of some of the top energy investing platforms, listed in no particular order. These platforms were selected based on a review of their fees, reputation, offerings, historical performance, and investor requirements. We will also explain how these investments can be made using a Self-Directed IRA with IRA Financial, along with the risks, considerations, and frequently asked questions investors should understand before getting started.

What Is Energy Investing?

Energy investing refers to placing capital into assets that produce, distribute, or support energy. This can include traditional oil and gas projects, renewable energy infrastructure such as solar and wind, energy storage, grid modernization, and other energy transition technologies.

Unlike publicly traded energy stocks, many energy investments are private. These deals often generate income from long term contracts, power purchase agreements, or production revenue, which can make them attractive for investors seeking diversification and cash flow.

Why Energy Investing Matters as an Alternative Asset Class

Energy is essential to the global economy. Regardless of market cycles, energy demand continues. From a portfolio perspective, energy investments can offer several potential benefits:

• Exposure to real assets with intrinsic value
• Potential income through cash distributions
• Lower correlation to public markets
• Inflation hedging characteristics
• Participation in long term energy transition trends

For retirement investors, energy assets can also play a role in creating tax efficient income when held inside a Self-Directed IRA.

Top Energy Investing Platforms

1. EnergyFunders

EnergyFunders is a marketplace that connects investors with direct oil and gas investment opportunities. The platform focuses on producing and development stage wells, primarily available to accredited investors.

Minimum investments typically start around $5,000, and offerings are structured as direct participation interests. Investors are attracted to EnergyFunders for its detailed deal information and potential cash flow.

This platform is best suited for experienced investors who understand commodity risk, project timelines, and the inherent volatility of oil and gas markets.

2. Energea

Energea focuses on renewable energy investments, primarily solar projects. Investors can gain exposure to income producing renewable infrastructure through equity and structured offerings.

Energea emphasizes long term cash flow and sustainability. Investments are generally held for multiple years, making this platform more appropriate for investors with a long term horizon who are comfortable with illiquidity.

Renewable infrastructure like solar can be particularly attractive inside retirement accounts due to its predictable income profile.

3. WillowWealth

WillowWealth is a well known alternative investment platform that provides access to a variety of private market investments, including energy and infrastructure related deals.

While WillowWealth is not exclusively focused on energy, it occasionally offers energy transition, infrastructure, and real asset investments. Minimums and eligibility requirements vary by offering, with some deals available to non-accredited investors.

This platform appeals to investors looking for diversified exposure across alternative asset classes through a single platform.

4. Abundance Investments

Abundance Investments is a UK based platform that allows investors to participate in renewable energy and infrastructure projects through bonds and equity investments.

While access may be limited for U.S. investors depending on the offering, Abundance highlights the growing global interest in clean energy investing and community backed infrastructure projects.

Investors considering international platforms should be mindful of currency risk and jurisdictional regulations.

5. Tokenized Energy Platforms

Some newer platforms use blockchain technology to tokenize energy assets, power contracts, or renewable energy certificates. Examples include projects focused on tokenized power purchase agreements or energy credits.

These investments are speculative and come with regulatory uncertainty, but they represent an emerging segment of energy investing that combines digital assets with real world infrastructure.

This category is best suited for investors who understand blockchain technology and are comfortable with higher risk.

What Type of Investor Is Energy Investing Best Suited For?

Energy investments are generally best suited for:

• Investors seeking diversification beyond stocks and bonds
• Income focused investors looking for cash flowing assets
• Accredited investors interested in private placements
• Long term investors comfortable with illiquidity
• Retirement investors using Self-Directed IRAs

Because many energy deals are private and long term, patience and due diligence are essential.

Risks and Key Considerations

Like all alternative investments, energy investing carries risk. Some of the most important considerations include:

• Illiquidity, since many investments cannot be easily sold
• Project specific risk tied to execution, pricing, or regulation
• Commodity price exposure for oil and gas investments
• Regulatory and policy changes, especially for renewable energy
• Platform level risk related to underwriting and management

Investors should carefully review offering documents and understand how each investment fits within their overall portfolio.

Why Use a Self-Directed IRA to Invest in Energy Assets?

A Self-Directed IRA allows you to invest retirement funds into alternative assets such as private energy deals, renewable infrastructure, and real assets that are not available through traditional brokerage accounts.

With a Self-Directed IRA through IRA Financial, investors can:

• Invest in eligible energy platforms using tax advantaged retirement dollars
• Defer or potentially eliminate taxes on gains depending on account type
• Diversify retirement portfolios beyond public markets
• Maintain control over investment decisions

Energy investments can be particularly powerful inside retirement accounts when structured correctly and aligned with long term objectives.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Energy investing offers investors access to real assets, income potential, and long-term growth opportunities that extend beyond traditional portfolios. When combined with the flexibility of a Self-Directed IRA, energy investments can become a powerful component of a well-diversified retirement strategy.

If you are interested in learning how to invest in energy assets through a Self-Directed IRA, IRA Financial can help.

Request a consultation with a New Accounts Specialist today to explore how alternative investments like energy can fit into your retirement plan and help you take control of your financial future.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, tax, or legal advice. Any rankings, ratings, or opinions expressed reflect the views of IRA Financial based on internal research, listed criteria, and publicly available data at the time of publication. Rankings are subjective and may not be suitable for all investors. Readers should independently evaluate all options and consult with qualified advisors prior to making financial decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Energy Investing

Can I invest in energy platforms with my IRA?

Yes, many energy investments can be made using a Self-Directed IRA, provided they comply with IRS rules and the platform accepts IRA capital.

Are energy investments risky?

All investments carry risk. Energy investments involve project risk, regulatory risk, and illiquidity. Proper due diligence is essential.

Do I need to be an accredited investor?

Many energy platforms require accreditation, although some offerings may be available to non accredited investors.

What returns should I expect?

Returns vary widely depending on the asset type, structure, and market conditions. There are no guaranteed returns.

by Adam Bergman

Top Private Equity Investment Platforms of 2026

Privxate equity has long been one of the most powerful, but least accessible, wealth-building asset classes. In 2026, that is no longer the case. Thanks to modern private equity investment platforms and the rise of self-directed retirexment accounts, accredited and sophisticated investors now have more access, transparency, and control than ever before.

In this listicle, we break down the top private equity investment platforms of 2026, explain why private equity matters, who it’s best suited for, the risks involved, and how investors can gain exposure tax-advantaged through a Self-Directed IRA with IRA Financial.

Why Private Equity Matters in 2026

Private equity (PE) focuses on investing directly in private companies, often before they go public or during major growth, turnaround, or acquisition phases. Historically, some of the strongest-performing companies delivered their biggest gains before ever reaching public markets.

Key reasons private equity continues to attract investors in 2026 include:

• Access to high-growth private companies
• Potential for outsized long-term returns
• Portfolio diversification beyond public equities
• Reduced correlation to public market volatility
• Control and transparency compared to public funds

As public markets become more efficient and competitive, many investors are turning to private equity for return potential that simply isn’t available through traditional stocks and bonds.

What Is Private Equity Investing?

Private equity investing involves purchasing ownership stakes in privately held businesses. These investments are typically illiquid and long-term, with capital committed for several years.

Common private equity strategies include:

• Growth equity
• Buyouts
• Venture capital
• Distressed or turnaround investments
• Private credit and special situations

Private equity investments are often accessed through funds, SPVs (special purpose vehicles), or direct deals, many of which can be held inside a Self-Directed IRA when structured properly.

Top Private Equity Investment Platforms of 2026

Listed in no particular order:

1. Moonfare

Moonfare has become one of the most respected private equity access platforms globally, offering curated exposure to top-tier PE funds that were once reserved for institutional investors.

• Why it stands out in 2026:

  • Access to elite PE fund managers
  • Institutional-grade due diligence
  • Structured feeder funds
  • Strong reputation and global reach

• Investor requirements: Accredited investors
• IRA compatibility: Yes, with a Self-Directed IRA through IRA Financial

2. iCapital

iCapital serves as a technology and access platform connecting investors to alternative investments, including private equity, private credit, and hedge funds.

• Why it stands out in 2026:

  • Large marketplace of private equity offerings
  • Institutional infrastructure and reporting
  • Strong compliance and education tools
  • Widely used by advisors and family offices

• Investor requirements: Accredited investors (often advisor-led)
• IRA compatibility: Yes, when invested through a Self-Directed IRA

3. Yieldstreet

Originally known for private credit, Yieldstreet has expanded significantly into private equity and growth investments.

• Why it stands out in 2026:

  • Mix of private equity, venture, and alternatives
  • Lower minimums compared to traditional PE funds
  • Streamlined online investing experience
  • Strong performance track record across asset classes

• Investor requirements: Accredited investors
• IRA compatibility: Yes, via a Self-Directed IRA with IRA Financial

4. Forge Global

Forge specializes in private company shares and late-stage private equity, particularly in pre-IPO companies.

• Why it stands out in 2026:

  • Access to mature private companies
  • Secondary market liquidity options
  • Strong institutional participation
  • Transparent pricing and execution

• Investor requirements: Accredited investors
• IRA compatibility: Yes, when structured correctly inside a Self-Directed IRA

5. EquityZen

EquityZen focuses on providing access to private equity opportunities in well-known private companies before they go public.

• Why it stands out in 2026:

  • Pre-IPO private equity exposure
  • Strong deal sourcing and vetting
  • User-friendly platform
  • Established reputation in secondary private markets

• Investor requirements: Accredited investors
• IRA compatibility: Yes, using a Self-Directed IRA administered by IRA Financial

Who Is Private Equity Best Suited For?

Private equity investing is generally best for investors who:

• Are accredited or sophisticated investors
• Have a long-term investment horizon
• Can tolerate illiquidity
• Want diversification beyond public markets
• Are seeking higher return potential

It can be especially powerful for investors using retirement accounts who want to shelter long-term gains from taxes.

Why Invest in Private Equity Through a Self-Directed IRA?

A Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) allows you to invest in private equity while maintaining the powerful tax advantages of an IRA.

• Tax-deferred or tax-free growth (Traditional or Roth)
• Ability to invest in private equity, venture capital, and private funds
• No capital gains taxes on successful exits inside the IRA
• Greater control over your retirement capital
• Portfolio diversification beyond Wall Street

IRA Financial specializes in helping investors use Self-Directed IRAs to invest in private equity while staying fully compliant with IRS rules.

Risks and Considerations of Private Equity Investing

• Illiquidity (capital may be locked up for years)
• Limited transparency compared to public markets
• Deal-specific risk and execution risk
• Complex tax and compliance considerations
• Platform and sponsor quality matters

Using an experienced Self-Directed IRA provider like IRA Financial helps reduce administrative and compliance risks when investing retirement funds in private equity.

Final Thoughts: Private Equity + Self-Directed IRAs in 2026

Private equity remains one of the most compelling alternative asset classes in 2026, but access alone isn’t enough. How you invest matters just as much as where you invest.

By combining private equity platforms with a Self-Directed IRA through IRA Financial, investors can pursue higher-growth opportunities while maximizing tax efficiency and long-term compounding.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, tax, or legal advice. Any rankings, ratings, or opinions expressed reflect the views of IRA Financial based on internal research, listed criteria, and publicly available data at the time of publication. Rankings are subjective and may not be suitable for all investors. Readers should independently evaluate all options and consult with qualified advisors prior to making financial decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I invest in private equity with an IRA?

Yes. With a Self-Directed IRA, you can invest in private equity platforms, funds, and direct deals.

Do private equity gains inside an IRA get taxed?

Gains grow tax-deferred in a Traditional SDIRA or tax-free in a Roth SDIRA, provided IRS rules are followed.

Do I need to be accredited to invest in private equity?

Most private equity platforms require investors to be accredited, though requirements vary by offering.

Can IRA Financial help me invest in these platforms?

Yes. IRA Financial helps investors establish and manage Self-Directed IRAs that can invest in private equity platforms like those listed above.

by Adam Bergman

Five Years Later: The McNulty v. Commissioner Case Reaffirms Physical Possession Rules

More than five years after McNulty v. Commissioner, the decision remains one of the most important U.S. Tax Court rulings interpreting physical possession rules for precious metals and coins under IRC §408, especially for retirement investors using Self-Directed IRAs and IRA LLC structures.

The case reinforced a principle I often emphasize: access is not ownership, and paperwork without proper compliance is not protection. If IRS requirements for control, documentation, and possession are not satisfied, your tax position is vulnerable. Substance matters more than labels.

In this article, I'll:

• Explain what the McNulty case was about
• Detail the physical possession rules
• Clarify how the case applies to self-directed retirement accounts
• Highlight related developments and best practices
• Provide practical takeaways for investors in 2026

Summary of the McNulty Case and Its Impact on Precious Metals IRAs

The Case: McNulty v. Commissioner

The case most often cited in connection with precious metals IRAs is McNulty v. Commissioner, T.C. Memo 2021-110. This Tax Court decision directly addressed how physical possession of precious metals is treated under Internal Revenue Code §408(m) when those metals are held in, or purportedly held by, an IRA.

The McNultys attempted to hold gold coins through a Self-Directed IRA LLC, also known as a checkbook control IRA structure. They argued that because the IRA owned the LLC, and the LLC owned the coins, the metals were effectively owned by the IRA, even though the coins were stored at their personal residence.

The IRS disagreed. The Tax Court sided with the IRS.

The Core Issue: Physical Possession Under IRC §408(m)

What IRC §408(m) Says

IRC §408(m) generally prohibits IRAs from investing in “collectibles,” which include:

• Art
• Rugs
• Antiques
• Gems
• Stamps
• Alcoholic beverages
• Certain coins and metals

However, §408(m)(3) provides a narrow exception allowing IRAs to invest in certain gold, silver, platinum, and palladium coins and bullion, but only if strict requirements are met.

The most important requirement is this: the metals must be in the physical possession of a trustee.

That phrase, physical possession of a trustee, was the focal point of the McNulty case.

What the Taxpayers Did in McNulty

In McNulty:

• The taxpayers established a Self-Directed IRA
• The IRA invested in a single-member LLC
• The LLC purchased American Eagle gold coins, which are otherwise permitted coins under §408(m)
• The coins were shipped to and stored at the taxpayers’ personal residence

The taxpayers argued that because the IRA owned the LLC, and the LLC owned the coins, the IRA indirectly owned the coins and physical possession by the IRA owner should be sufficient.

The court rejected this argument.

The Tax Court’s Holding

The Tax Court ruled that:

• Physical possession by the IRA owner, or an IRA-owned LLC, is not the same as physical possession by a trustee.
• The statute requires that precious metals be held by a bank, federally insured credit union, or other IRS-approved trustee or custodian.
• Storing coins at the IRA owner’s home, even through an IRA LLC, violates IRC §408(m).

Because the metals were not held by a qualified trustee, the IRA was deemed to have distributed the coins to the taxpayer in the year of purchase.

As a result:

• The entire value of the coins was treated as a taxable distribution
• The IRA lost its tax-advantaged treatment with respect to those assets
• The taxpayer was subject to income tax and penalties, where applicable

Key Takeaway: IRA LLCs Do Not Override §408(m)

One of the most important clarifications from McNulty is that an IRA LLC does not override the physical possession requirement in §408(m).

Even though IRA LLCs are commonly used for:

• Real estate
• Private lending
• Private equity
• Operating businesses

They cannot be used to:

• Store precious metals personally
• Bypass the requirement that metals be held by a qualified trustee or custodian

The court made clear that statutory exceptions must be followed exactly, and §408(m) is explicit.

Why Certain Coins Still Failed in McNulty

A critical point that is often misunderstood:

The coins at issue, American Eagle coins, are otherwise permitted investments. The problem was not the type of coin. The problem was where and how they were held.

In other words, permitted metals plus improper possession equals prohibited investment.

That distinction is crucial for Self-Directed IRA investors.

How McNulty Applies to Precious Metals IRAs Today

What Is Allowed

An IRA may invest in certain IRS-approved bullion and coins, such as American Gold Eagles, American Silver Eagles, and certain bars, but only if the metals are:

• Purchased by the IRA
• Titled in the name of the IRA
• Held in the physical possession of an approved trustee or custodian
• Stored at an IRS-approved depository

What Is Not Allowed

After McNulty, it's clear that an IRA may not:

• Store precious metals at the IRA owner’s home
• Store metals in a personal safe or safe-deposit box
• Use an IRA LLC to checkbook control metals at home
• Argue that constructive or indirect possession satisfies §408(m)

Why the Court Rejected Constructive Possession Arguments

The taxpayers argued that because they controlled the IRA and the LLC, they had constructive possession on behalf of the IRA.

The court rejected this reasoning, emphasizing that Congress intentionally used the phrase physical possession of a trustee. Constructive possession is not sufficient. Allowing home storage would defeat the statutory safeguard against abuse.

The court’s reasoning aligns with the IRS’s long-standing position on metals IRAs.

Why McNulty Still Matters Today (2026)

More than five years later, McNulty remains highly relevant for several reasons.

1. Reinforces the Importance of Documentation

McNulty is a reminder that the IRS cares about substance over form. The Tax Court rejected the taxpayer’s positions because he lacked clear evidence of ownership, key documents were missing or ambiguous, and proof of control was insufficient.

When you use a self-directed retirement account, documentation is not optional. It's foundational, especially for alternative assets.

2. Highlights the Risks of Improper Titling

The case illustrates that failure to properly title assets, or to prove that they were properly titled, can significantly weaken your tax position. This is especially important for investments held through entities, LLCs, trusts, or private arrangements.

3. Applies to Alternative Assets

McNulty’s principles apply with particular force to alternative investments such as real estate, private notes, partnerships, and investment funds because these assets do not have centralized custodians or standard clearinghouses the way stocks and bonds do.

For alternative assets, the first thing the IRS will ask for is clear chain of title, proper contractual documentation, and proof of control that reflects retirement account ownership. If the documentation is not airtight, the IRS can and will challenge it.

McNulty and Self-Directed IRAs: A Practical Example

Imagine a self-directed IRA that invests in a private note issued by a real estate company. The investor believes the note is owned by the IRA and that interest payments have accrued tax-free inside the IRA.

If documentation is weak, here is how McNulty principles could come into play:

• If the note’s assignment was not properly executed in the name of the Self-Directed IRA
• If the custodian never received or retained the original note or assignment
• If there is no clear chain showing when and how the note was transferred
• If copies sit unsigned or lack corroborating records

The IRS could argue that the IRA never truly owned the note, that the interest was not earned by the IRA, and that tax-free treatment is not justified.

Even if the position is honestly stated, the IRS ultimately cares about proof, not intention.

Documentation Best Practices in a Post-McNulty World

Following McNulty, the standard for documentation has only become more exacting. For self-directed investors, best practices include:

Proper Titling
Make sure investments are titled in the name of the retirement account, not an individual’s name. This creates the unbroken record the IRS expects.

Custodial Acknowledgement
When your custodian receives investment documents, confirmations, or assignments, ensure they are reviewed, logged into the account records, and retained in your organized digital repository.

Clear Chain of Assignment
If you acquire private investments such as notes, partnerships, or structured settlements, maintain original assignments, documented purchase agreements, and transfer records with dates and titles spelled out explicitly.

Consistent Recordkeeping
Scan and store all investment documents, all custodian correspondence, and all executed agreements. Use cloud backups and indexed systems so nothing is lost.

Documentation is not about paperwork. It's about proof.

Why This Matters for Self-Directed IRA and Solo 401(k) Investors

Many investors choose self-directed retirement accounts for greater control and broader investment options. That control comes with responsibility. You must ensure that investments are properly documented, confirm that titles and assignments align with plan ownership, coordinate closely with custodians or administrators, and retain proof at every step.

McNulty is a cautionary tale about what happens when documentation gaps exist, even for well-intentioned investors.

IRA Financial: Helping Investors Stay Ahead of McNulty-Style Risks

At IRA Financial, we have seen how documentation gaps lead to costly disputes, confusion, and audit headaches. We help investors establish retirement accounts that support alternative assets, structure investments properly with accurate titling, collect and maintain thorough documentation, coordinate with custodians and administrators, and implement systems that anticipate IRS scrutiny.

Our team operates on a simple principle: if it's not documented, it did not happen, at least not for tax purposes.

This means more than setting up an account. It means helping you build a verifiable record that stands up to the IRS’s highest standards.

Final Takeaway: Documentation Is Your Most Valuable Asset

The McNulty v. Commissioner decision provides a clear and lasting reminder that when it comes to precious metals held in a Self-Directed IRA, strict compliance with IRC §408(m) is mandatory. Even otherwise permitted coins and bullion will lose their tax-advantaged status if they are not held in the physical possession of a qualified trustee or custodian.

Five years later, the case continues to underscore that IRA owners cannot use IRA LLC structures or personal storage to bypass the IRS’s custody requirements. Documentation and proper custodial control remain essential to preserving an IRA’s tax benefits.

If you are serious about self-directing your retirement account and doing it in a way that stands up under scrutiny, prioritizing documentation and expert support is essential.

by Adam Bergman