The Benefits of Investing in Alternatives: Understanding Hedge Funds, Private Equity, and Managed Futures
26 Pages Posted: 17 Apr 2009
Date Written: August 13, 2008
Abstract
In a time when the headlines are abuzz with the latest hedge fund failure and growing uncertainty in the financial markets, many investors are left wondering why anyone would ever invest in alternatives. The general public perception of alternative investments and the reality are very different. The purpose of this paper is to provide qualified investors an accurate description of the investment options available in the alternative universe. The intention is to provide accurate descriptions of the three most common alternative investment vehicles: Hedge funds, private equity and managed futures. More importantly, the goal is to provide investors the necessary foundation to help make informed decisions in their future investment allocations. This paper will address the basics of alternatives, outline the above-mentioned vehicles and the benefits of investing in them, define the underlying risks, and illustrate the importance of working with a professional to uncover the opportunities they present.
Keywords: hedge funds, alternative investments, portfolio volatility
JEL Classification: G19
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation