Wealth Management | Plancorp

Alternative Investments

Written by Plancorp Team | January 26, 2015

Listed below are some of the risks and considerations associated with hedge fund investing:

  • Liquidity
  • Fees and expenses (see below)
  • Risk
  • Performance reporting
  • Valuation
  • Fiduciary responsibility

One of the most significant issues associated with hedge fund investing is cost. The example below attempts to show the impact that costs can have on investment outcomes.

Hedge Fund Higher Math…or, the Great Compensation Machine

The most common hedge fund fee arrangement: 2 and 20…2% annual fee and 20% of any profits

Example #1: $1,000,000 invested in hedge fund that earns 10% per year for 2 years

  • 1st year fees (2% plus 2%) 4%
  • 2nd year fees 2% plus 2%) 4%
  • Total both years 8%

Total Fees: ~$80,000…Total Gain (net): ~$120,000 (6% per year)

Example #2: $1,000,000 invested for 2 years…60% gain in year 1, 25% loss in year 2

  • 1st year fees (2% plus 12%) 14%
  • 2nd year fees (2% plus 0) 2%
  • Total both years 16%

Total Fees: ~$170,000…Total Gain (net): ~$65,000 (3% per year)

Not bad work if you can get it!

 

Disclosure:

This material has been prepared for informational purposes only and should not be used as investment, tax, legal or accounting advice. All investing involves risk. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Diversification does not ensure a profit or guarantee against a loss. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors.