Over the last few weeks there have been a number of articles and press reports on the poor performance of hedge funds and the massive withdrawals that have hit the industry. And while, yes, there seems to have been a number of funds that weren’t able to outperform the S&P last year and some investors seem to be redeeming, over all the industry is quite strong.
New fund launches are up, according to many of the lawyers I’ve been talking to, investors are looking to put significant assets to work in multiple asset classes, and all seems to be right with the world of hedge funds. Reports of the industry’s death have been greatly exaggerated.
Just yesterday, we had the first HEDGEAnswers call of 2014. The conversation was full insight and information on best practices to launch a fund.
One of the things we discussed in detail was the effect of the JOBS Act on whether funds will begin advertising. The esteemed panel frankly did not know, and it seems that while advertising is now an option, it is unclear if fund managers are willing to take the risk to do so.
Don’t forget Operations for Alternatives, the only conference focused on the convergence of the hedge fund, mutual fund and private equity industries is coming March 5 at PGA National. To learn more about this important event focused on the future of the investment management industry click here.
Of course, the big question is will someone put an ad on during the Super Bowl. If the Patriots don’t win this weekend, looking for a hedge fund ad will probably be the only reason why I watch. Although I am a fan of Pete Carroll, so maybe if Seattle wins this weekend, I’ll watch the game and the ads.
Go Pats!
THINGS THAT DRIVE ME CRAZY
Nothing to report this week…Stay tuned, this will change.