Masterworks vs AcreTrader Comparison

Assess their risks, liquidity, investments, returns, timeframes and other terms

Invest in fractionalized multimillion-dollar paintings

Invest in farmland

444,000 visits/month 9,700 search keywords
57,000 visits/month 7,500 search keywords

Investments
$15,000

The minimum investment required is $15,000, which can be used to buy one or more assets.

Investments
$15,000

The minimum investment on AcreTrader varies by listing, generally starting at $15,000, with some past deals ranging from $3,000 to $100,000. This range is determined by factors such as the size of the offering and the price per acre.


Moderate Risk
3/5

Investing in art through Masterworks has risks, including concentration in a single artwork, limited insurance coverage, market volatility, and uncertainty in the secondary market.

Moderate Risk
3/5

Investing in AcreTrader involves risks like casualty, condemnation, and eminent domain, common to real estate investments.


Moderate Liquidity
2/5

You have the option to trade shares on the platform's secondary market, but there are certain restrictions on what and how you can trade.

Minimum Liquidity
1/5

AcreTrader investments are considered illiquid, meaning investors should be prepared to hold their investments for the specified duration. While it may be possible to sell shares in a private transaction after this period, there is no established market for them, making resale uncertain.

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Moderate Return
12.6 %

Profits come from selling the painting or when investors sell their shares.

High Return
9.4-30.3 %

The returns from investing in AcreTrader vary, with historical examples showing realized internal rates of return (IRR) ranging from 9.4% to 30.3% over holding periods between 1.7 and 4.2 years. These variations highlight the potential for both moderate and significant returns, depending on the specific investment and market conditions.


Long-term Investment
3-7 years

Masterworks keeps the artwork for 3 to 10 years.

Long-term Investment
3-10 years

AcreTrader investments target hold periods of 3 to 10 years, though this can vary based on market conditions and sale opportunities. Properties may sell earlier or extend beyond the target period, depending on whether favorable buying offers arise or if market conditions dictate a longer hold.


Who can invest
International

Masterworks welcomes individuals, corporations, or entities from any location, including the United States.

Who can invest
United States

Investing on the AcreTrader platform is limited to accredited investors, as defined by SEC regulations. Non-U.S. citizens can invest if they are legal residents of the United States.


Moderate Volatility
3/5

Art market fluctuations can lead to rapid price increases and declines, posing risks for short-term investors who may lose a significant portion of their capital.

Moderate Volatility
3/5

Farmland assets on AcreTrader typically exhibit lower volatility compared to stocks and bonds, offering a more stable investment option due to the steady demand for agricultural products and the land's intrinsic value.


Regulation and audits
SEC Regulated

Masterworks provides SEC-approved offering circulars for each artwork, allowing public investment. AGD Legal reviews art investments annually.

Regulation and audits
SEC Regulated

AcreTrader is regulated by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, SEC rules, FINRA rules, and state laws, reflecting its commitment to transparency and investor protection. As a registered Broker-Dealer, it must adhere to strict financial standards, undergo regular audits, and comply with ethical practices to maintain its standing and ensure the security of its investors' assets.


Insurance
Yes

Artworks are insured for up to $500 million by Lloyd's of London, but coverage may not fully match the artwork's value.

Insurance
Yes

AcreTrader does not explicitly mention specific insurance coverage for investments on its platform. Generally, real estate investments, including farmland, are insured against risks like natural disasters and fire to protect investment value.


Payouts
No Recurring Payouts

The company doesn't generate revenue.

Payouts
Dividends

AcreTrader may distribute net cash from annual income to investors after operating expenses, typically once a year in December. These distributions, based on pro rata ownership, are not guaranteed. If distributed, funds go to the investor's AcreTrader wallet or, for SDIRA or IRA accounts, to the custodian.


Withdrawals

Investors should wait for the company to sell the painting to receive their share of the proceeds, after deducting fees.

Withdrawals

Investors can typically get their money back when the property they've invested in is sold at the end of its expected hold period, which may range from 3 to 10 years.


Extra Fees
Yes

Masterworks charges a 1.5% yearly fee in equity, takes a 20% cut on art sales profits, and has a one-time sourcing fee per investment.

Extra Fees
Yes

AcreTrader charges investors initial closing costs around 2% of the offering value and an annual 0.75% servicing fee of the land's value for management. The primary revenue comes from a 5% commission on the farm's sale, charged to the seller. There are no “carried interest fees.” Fee structures vary by deal, so reviewing offering documents is recommended for specifics.


Taxes
Tax Form

US taxpayers: subject to collectible gains rate (capped at 28%), unless owning 10%+ of a single painting. Masterworks provides a free Consolidated Tax Statement. Foreign investors: no US taxes or tax withholding.

Taxes
Tax Form

AcreTrader aims to provide K-1 tax forms electronically by early March, although delays can occur due to external reporting needs. Tax treatment varies: gains on land sold within a year are taxed at ordinary income rates, while longer holdings are taxed at capital gains rates. Depreciation on buildings or equipment may affect taxes.

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