BlackRock Inc. has launched three new mutual funds featuring alternative investment strategies for the firm's U.S. retail and high net worth client base.

The funds are designed to provide individual investors with access to strategies that offer non-correlated returns and diversification benefits with the goal of minimizing portfolio volatility and preserving return objectives.

"With the extreme market volatility of recent years, investors are increasingly focused on portfolio construction and have embraced alternative investments as a way to diversify their core holdings," said Frank Porcelli, managing director and head of BlackRock's U.S. retail business.