I know it has been a while since I have written, I apologize to those who have missed these posts. Let me first start off by saying the SALT Conference was great. Once again Mr. Scaramucci and his team pulled off a solid event – both content and networking were a 10 in my book. There has been a lot of ink on the event over the last week so I will stop there but needless to say, I will be back next year and highly recommend it for those who are serious about hedge fund and private equity investing.
The hedge fund industry has sure had its ups and downs over the last five months. As the US equity markets continue to rage, the hedge fund industry has come back with a roar. It seems that managers have found their groove and that is a good thing. However, be careful, it is important to not confuse brains with a bull market. Managers need to perform regardless of which way the market is moving and as such investors need to pay attention to what their managers are doing at all times. The only way to do this is constant and ongoing due diligence. It seems that some folks think that due diligence is a one and done exercise. This is not the case, investors need to stay on top of managers, ask questions and demand answers. Investors regardless of the size and shape of their portfolios need to get their feet wet and hands dirty. Anyone who thinks different well in my humble opinion is making a mistake.
I am pleased to report that the first group people to pass the CDDA exam was announced last month. This group of people has demonstrated their knowledge, experience, and skillset in conducting operational and investment management due diligence. It is quite an accomplishment for these folks. I encourage you all to learn more about the CDDA and getting involved with the IMDDA. Congrats to you all for this accomplishment!
Things that drive me crazy
Is it me or should there be a rule about changing a baby on a tray table in an airplane? Recently, I had the unpleasant experience of witnessing this action by a mother and while it is disgusting, gross and unsanitary, I think it is just plain dangerous. My kids are older so I don’t have to change their diapers any longer but when they needed to be changed, I can assure that I would never consider doing it on a tray table. I would encourage others to not do it as well.
