Alternative Data

Portex unlocks the power of Alternative Data (often called “alt data”), which are non-traditional datasets that go beyond standard information, like financial statements or regulatory filings.

In the world of finance, alt data has quickly become invaluable—hedge funds, asset managers, and analysts rush to glean early insights into a company’s performance by examining unique signals such as geolocation logs, credit card transactions, social media sentiment, satellite imagery, or web traffic. These datasets frequently provide real-time or near real-time snapshots of market activity, tempered by fewer reporting lags than conventional data, aiding traders and institutions in making more accurate forecasts.

Despite its potential, alt data remains largely locked behind closed-door deals, custom brokerages, and high subscription fees. By establishing a true marketplace for this information on Portex, we free alt data from restrictive, siloed agreements and reduce reliance on gray-area scraping or shadowy brokerage structures. Instead, sellers of alt data can transparently list their datasets, embed clear legal terms, and give buyers a frictionless way to purchase—paving the way for a more equitable and efficient market. This open exchange fosters collaboration, clarity on licensing, and a broader base of legitimate buyers, all while maintaining compliance with relevant privacy and financial regulations.

Over time, combining different alt datasets together can yield particularly impactful insights. For instance, consider two data providers: one who captures satellite imagery of Amazon trucks from above and distribution centers, while another who compiles an extensive consumer survey on e-commerce spending habits. By tapping into Portex, these sellers could bundle their datasets into a single, composite product for clients looking to forecast Amazon’s quarterly earnings. As agentic systems proliferate, it becomes increasingly straightforward for buyers—or AI-driven trading bots—to purchase and integrate multiple alt data feeds, building powerful predictive models that previously were out of reach. This multi-sourced approach can translate into sharper market signals and more informed decision-making, pushing the boundaries of what alt data can offer and unlocking new opportunities for all participants.