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Accounting for Alternative Investments: A Comprehensive Guide
Author: Dr. Evelyn Reed, CPA, CFA, CAIA – Dr. Reed is a Professor of Accounting at the University of California, Berkeley, with over 20 years of experience in financial reporting and analysis, specializing in alternative investments. She holds a PhD in Accounting, is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), and Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA).
Publisher: Wiley Finance – Wiley is a leading global publisher known for its high-quality financial and accounting textbooks and resources, trusted by professionals and academics worldwide. Their reputation for accuracy and comprehensiveness makes them a reliable source for information on complex topics like accounting for alternative investments.
Editor: Mr. David Chen, CPA – Mr. Chen is a senior editor at Wiley Finance with extensive experience in editing financial and accounting publications. He has a strong background in accounting and finance, ensuring the accuracy and clarity of the published materials.
Keywords: accounting for alternative investments, alternative investment accounting, private equity accounting, hedge fund accounting, real estate accounting, infrastructure accounting, IFRS 9, ASC 820, fair value accounting, investment accounting.
1. Introduction: The Growing Importance of Accounting for Alternative Investments
The landscape of investment portfolios is rapidly evolving, with a significant increase in allocations to alternative investments. These assets, encompassing private equity, hedge funds, real estate, infrastructure, commodities, and other non-traditional investments, present unique challenges for accountants. Accounting for alternative investments requires a deep understanding of complex valuation methodologies, limited liquidity, and often illiquid assets, demanding specialized knowledge and expertise far beyond traditional accounting practices. This article will delve into the key aspects of accounting for alternative investments, exploring the complexities involved and the importance of accurate financial reporting in this burgeoning sector.
2. Challenges in Accounting for Alternative Investments
Unlike publicly traded securities, alternative investments often lack readily available market prices. This lack of liquidity necessitates the use of valuation techniques that can be subjective and prone to error. The complexities involved in accounting for alternative investments stem from several factors:
Valuation: Determining the fair value of illiquid assets is a major challenge. Various valuation methods, including discounted cash flow analysis, comparable company analysis, and precedent transactions, might be employed, each with its own inherent limitations and potential for subjectivity. The choice of valuation method significantly impacts reported financial statements.
Limited Transparency: Many alternative investment vehicles operate with limited transparency, making it difficult to obtain the necessary information for accurate accounting. This lack of transparency often extends to underlying asset holdings, fee structures, and performance data.
Complex Fee Structures: Alternative investments frequently involve intricate fee structures, including management fees, performance fees (carried interest), and other incentive arrangements. Accurately accounting for these fees and allocating them appropriately requires careful consideration.
Reporting Requirements: The accounting standards governing accounting for alternative investments vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific type of investment. Compliance with relevant regulations, such as IFRS 9 and ASC 820 (in the US), is crucial to ensure accurate and consistent financial reporting.
Illiquidity: The inherent illiquidity of many alternative investments means that they cannot be readily bought or sold at market prices. This necessitates the use of more sophisticated valuation techniques and careful consideration of the time horizon over which the investment is held.
3. Key Accounting Standards and Frameworks
The primary accounting standards that govern accounting for alternative investments include:
IFRS 9 (International Financial Reporting Standards 9): This standard, used globally by many companies, provides guidance on the classification and measurement of financial instruments, including many types of alternative investments. It emphasizes the importance of fair value measurement and the consideration of credit risk.
ASC 820 (Accounting Standards Codification 820): This standard, used in the US, provides guidance on fair value measurements. It outlines a hierarchy of inputs used in valuation and requires disclosures related to valuation techniques and uncertainties.
The application of these standards requires significant judgment and expertise, particularly in the context of illiquid and complex investments. Failure to adhere to these standards can lead to misstatements in financial reporting, impacting investor confidence and regulatory compliance.
4. Specific Accounting Considerations for Different Alternative Investments
The accounting for alternative investments varies depending on the asset class:
Private Equity: Valuation challenges are significant, often relying on discounted cash flow models or precedent transactions. Management fees and carried interest need careful allocation.
Hedge Funds: Complex fee structures and opaque investment strategies make accurate accounting challenging. Net asset value (NAV) calculations require expertise and careful consideration of all underlying assets.
Real Estate: Valuation can involve appraisal techniques, income capitalization, or comparable sales analysis. Depreciation and amortization of property, plant, and equipment are significant considerations.
Infrastructure: Long-term investment horizons and complex cash flows necessitate sophisticated valuation models. Regulatory considerations and potential risks need to be factored into the accounting.
5. The Importance of Independent Valuation
Given the complexities and potential for subjectivity in valuation, obtaining independent valuations from qualified professionals is crucial for accurate accounting for alternative investments. Independent valuations provide an objective assessment of fair value, reducing the risk of misstatements and enhancing the credibility of financial reporting.
6. Disclosure Requirements
Comprehensive disclosures are essential for transparent reporting of alternative investments. These disclosures should include information on valuation methods used, significant assumptions made, the range of possible fair values, and any limitations or uncertainties related to the valuation process. Adequate disclosures help investors understand the risks and complexities associated with these investments.
7. Conclusion
Accounting for alternative investments is a specialized area that requires a deep understanding of complex valuation techniques, regulatory frameworks, and the characteristics of different asset classes. Accurate and transparent financial reporting is crucial for maintaining investor confidence, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enabling informed decision-making. The challenges associated with accounting for alternative investments necessitate the use of qualified professionals with expertise in this field. Continued advancements in accounting standards and valuation methodologies will likely shape the future of this critical area of financial reporting.
FAQs
1. What are the main challenges in valuing alternative investments? The lack of readily available market prices, complex fee structures, limited transparency, and the need to use subjective valuation models are major challenges.
2. What are the key accounting standards for alternative investments? IFRS 9 and ASC 820 are the primary standards globally and in the US, respectively.
3. How do I choose the appropriate valuation method for my alternative investments? The choice depends on the specific asset class, availability of data, and the characteristics of the investment. A mix of methods might be necessary.
4. What is the significance of independent valuations? Independent valuations provide objective assessments, reducing bias and enhancing the credibility of financial reporting.
5. What are the key disclosure requirements for alternative investments? Disclosures should include valuation methods used, significant assumptions, ranges of fair values, and uncertainties.
6. How do I account for management fees and carried interest? These fees need to be carefully allocated and accounted for according to the relevant accounting standards.
7. What are the specific accounting considerations for private equity investments? Valuation is challenging, often relying on discounted cash flow or comparable transactions. Carried interest allocation is crucial.
8. How does illiquidity affect the accounting for alternative investments? Illiquidity necessitates the use of more sophisticated valuation techniques and a careful consideration of the investment horizon.
9. What are the potential consequences of inaccurate accounting for alternative investments? Inaccurate accounting can lead to misstatements in financial reports, impacting investor confidence, regulatory compliance, and potentially leading to legal repercussions.
Related Articles:
1. Fair Value Measurement of Private Equity Investments: This article explores the different valuation techniques used for private equity and the challenges in applying fair value accounting.
2. Accounting for Hedge Fund Investments under IFRS 9: A detailed analysis of how IFRS 9 impacts the accounting treatment of hedge fund investments.
3. The Impact of ASC 820 on Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): Examines how ASC 820 affects the valuation and reporting of real estate investments within REITs.
4. Valuation Techniques for Infrastructure Investments: This article focuses on the specific valuation methodologies used for infrastructure assets, considering their long-term nature and cash flows.
5. Accounting for Carried Interest in Private Equity Funds: A deep dive into the accounting treatment and complexities of carried interest in private equity.
6. The Role of Independent Valuation in Alternative Investment Reporting: This explores the importance of independent valuations in mitigating risk and ensuring accuracy.
7. Regulatory Considerations for Alternative Investment Accounting: An overview of the regulatory landscape and the implications for accounting practices.
8. Emerging Trends in Alternative Investment Accounting: This article discusses the latest developments and potential future changes in the field.
9. Case Studies in Alternative Investment Accounting: Real-world examples showcasing the complexities and challenges involved in accounting for alternative investments across different asset classes.
| accounting for alternative investments: Handbook of Alternative Assets Mark J. P. Anson, 2008-04-15 Since the first edition of the Handbook of Alternative Assets was published, significant events-from the popping of the technology bubble and massive accounting scandals to recessions and bear markets-have shifted the financial landscape. These changes have provided author Mark J. P. Anson with an excellent opportunity to examine alternative assets during a different part of the economic cycle than previously observed in the first edition. Fully revised and updated to reflect today's financial realities, the Handbook of Alternative Assets, Second Edition covers the five major classes of alternative assets-hedge funds, commodity and managed futures, private equity, credit derivatives, and corporate governance-and outlines the strategies you can use to efficiently incorporate these assets into any portfolio. Throughout the book, new chapters have been added, different data sources accessed, and new conclusions reached. Designed as both an introduction to the world of alternative assets and as a reference for the active investor, the Handbook of Alternative Assets, Second Edition will help you match alternative assets with your various investment goals. |
| accounting for alternative investments: The Principles of Alternative Investments Management Ewelina Sokołowska, 2015-06-24 The purpose of this book is to present the principles of alternative investments in management. The individual chapters provide a detailed analysis of various classes of alternative investments on the financial market. Despite many different definitions of alternative investments, it can be assumed that a classical approach to alternative investments includes hedge funds, fund of funds (FOF), managed accounts, structured products and private equity/venture capital. Alternative investment in keeping with this broad definition is the subject of consideration here. The theoretical part of each chapter is meant to collect, systematize and deepen readers’ understanding of a given investment category, while the practical part of each focuses on an analysis of the current state of development of alternative investments on the global market and outlines the prospects of future market development. This book will be a valuable tool for scholars, practitioners and policy-makers alike. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Recent Advances and Applications in Alternative Investments Zopounidis, Constantin, Kenourgios, Dimitris, Dotsis, George, 2020-02-07 In recent years, there has been a swell of investment opportunities in contemporary asset classes that have gained considerable attention, including cryptocurrencies, hedge funds, and private equity. These alternative investments provide the opportunity to enhance the diversification of financial portfolios and harvest risk premiums that traditional assets like stocks and bonds fail to provide. The emergence of these new properties has created the need to further understand the mechanics, risks, and returns of alternative investments. Recent Advances and Applications in Alternative Investments is a pivotal reference source that provides vital research on the emergence and development of complementary asset classes in the field of finance and investment. While highlighting topics such as carbon emission markets, renewable energy, and digital currencies, this publication explores modern investment strategies as well as the latest products and new types of risk. This book is ideally designed for managers, strategists, accountants, financial professionals, economists, brokers, investors, business practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and academicians seeking current research on contemporary developments in investment strategies and alternative assets. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Alternative Investment Operations Jason Scharfman, 2020-08-29 Alternative investments such as hedge funds, private equity, and fund of funds continue to be of strong interest among the investment community. As these investment strategies have become increasingly complex, fund managers have continued to devote more time and resources towards developing best practice operations to support the actual trade processing, fund accounting, and back-office mechanics that allow these strategies to function. Representative of this operational growth, estimates have indicated that fund managers have seen increased operating budgets of 30% or more in recent years. In today’s highly regulated environment, alternative investment managers have also increasingly had to integrate rigorous compliance and cybersecurity oversight into fund operations. Additionally, with recent advances in artificial intelligence and big data analysis, fund managers are devoting larger portions of their information technology budgets towards realizing technology-based operational efficiencies. Alternative investment fund service providers have also substantially increased their scope and breadth of their operations-related services. Furthermore, investors are increasingly performing deep-dive due diligence on fund manager operations at both fund level and management company levels. This book provides current and practical guidance on the foundations of how alternative investment managers build and manage their operations. While other publications have focused on generalized overviews of historical trading procedures across multiple asset classes, and the technical intricacies of specific legacy operational procedures, Alternative Investment Operations will be the first book to focus on explaining up-to-date information on the specific real-world operational practices actually employed by alternative investment managers. This book will focus on how to actually establish and manage fund operations. Alternative Investment Operations will be an invaluable up-to-date resource for fund managers and their operations personnel as well as investors and service providers on the implementation and management of best practice operations. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Private Equity Accounting, Investor Reporting, and Beyond Mariya Stefanova, 2015-02-26 Today's only advanced comprehensive guide to private equity accounting, investor reporting, valuations and performance measurement provides a complete update to reflect the latest standards and best practices, as well as the author's unique experience teaching hundreds of fund professionals. In Private Equity Accounting, Investor Reporting and Beyond Mariya Stefanova brings together comprehensive advanced accounting guidance and advice for all private equity practitioners and fund accountants worldwide: information once available only by learning from peers. Replete with up-to-date, user-friendly examples from all main jurisdictions, this guide explains the precise workings and lifecycles of private equity funds; reviews commercial terms; evaluates structures and tax treatments; shows how to read Limited Partnership Agreements; presents best-practice details and processes, and identifies costly pitfalls to avoid. |
| accounting for alternative investments: The Handbook of Traditional and Alternative Investment Vehicles Mark J. P. Anson, Frank J. Fabozzi, Frank J. Jones, 2010-12-03 A comprehensive volume that covers a complete array of traditional and alternative investment vehicles This practical guide provides a comprehensive overview of traditional and alternative investment vehicles for professional and individual investors hoping to gain a deeper understanding of the benefits and pitfalls of using these products. In it, expert authors Mark Anson, Frank Fabozzi, and Frank Jones clearly present the major principles and methods of investing and their risks and rewards. Along the way, they focus on providing you with the information needed to successfully invest using a host of different methods depending upon your needs and goals. Topics include equities, all types of fixed income securities, investment-oriented insurance products, mutual funds, closed-end funds, investment companies, exchange-traded funds, futures, options, hedge funds, private equity, and real estate Written by the expert author team of Mark Anson, Frank Fabozzi, and Frank Jones Includes valuable insights for everyone from finance professionals to individual investors Many finance books offer collections of expertise on one or two areas of finance, but The Handbook of Traditional and Alternative Investment Vehicles brings all of these topics together in one comprehensive volume. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Technology Shaen Corbet, Andrew Urquhart, Larisa Yarovaya, 2020-08-24 This handbook will provide a comprehensive treatment of the gamut of issues and challenges that exist through the development of both cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. This will not be confined to simply the investment potential within these new technological areas. We will examine the challenges in the regulatory, legal, taxation, accounting, modelling, ethical, macroeconomic impact and internationalization issues. Research on cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology has identified issues such as pricing abnormalities and bubble-like behavior, indicating that these new assets are highly speculative in nature, contain a growing number of legal abnormalities (such as the hacking of exchanges and broad theft of investor assets) and a growing number of significant regulatory issues. It is paramount that we investigate each of these issues in great detail to help to determine whether cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology merits consideration as a sustainable alternative investment asset. The handbook will be useful for specialist technical audiences such as legal, accounting and financial practices. It will also be beneficial for upper level masters and research students in economics, law, accounting, taxation, investment and portfolio management. |
| accounting for alternative investments: The Savvy Investor’s Guide to Building Wealth Through Alternative Investments H. Kent Baker, Greg Filbeck, Andrew C. Spieler, 2021-07-13 The Savvy Investor's Guide to Building Wealth Through Alternative Investments is written for investors familiar with traditional investments but with limited knowledge of alternative assets and strategies. This book attempts to remove some of the mystery surrounding these investments. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Alternative Investments H. Kent Baker, Greg Filbeck, 2013-03-06 A comprehensive guide to alternative investments that reveals today's latest research and strategies Historically low interest rates and bear markets in world stock markets have generated intense interest in alternative investments. With returns in traditional investment vehicles relatively low, many professional investors view alternative investments as a means of meeting their return objectives. Alternative Investments: Instruments, Performance, Benchmarks, and Strategies, can put you in a better position to achieve this difficult goal. Part of the Robert W. Kolb Series in Finance, Alternative Investments provides an in-depth discussion of the historic performance, benchmarks, and strategies of every major alternative investment market. With contributions from professionals and academics around the world, it offers valuable insights on the latest trends, research, and thinking in each major area. Empirical evidence about each type of alternative investment is featured, with research presented in a straightforward manner. Examines a variety of major alternative asset classes, from real estate, private equity, and commodities to managed futures, hedge funds, and distressed securities Provides detailed insights on the latest research and strategies, and offers a thorough explanation of historical performance, benchmarks, and other critical information Blends knowledge from the conceptual world of scholars with the pragmatic view of practitioners in this field Alternative investments provide a means of diversification, risk control, and return enhancement and, as such, are attractive to many professional investors. If you're looking for an effective way to hone your skills in this dynamic area of finance, look no further than this book. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Exotic Alternative Investments Kevin R. Mirabile, 2021-01-05 This book evaluates investment opportunities such as life settlements, litigation funding, farmlands, royalties, weather derivatives, collectables and other unique asset classes. It provides an in-depth analysis of the returns, risks, opportunities and portfolio effects for anyone who wants to expand their investment horizons. This book is for individual investors, financial advisors, and academics who desire knowledge about investment products beyond just stocks and bonds or vanilla hedge funds, private equity and real estate investments. It provides a critical link to industry data and original research to support the case for adding exotic alternative investments to traditional portfolios. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Understanding cryptocurrency fraud Shaen Corbet, 2021-12-06 This handbook focuses on the key issues that continue to hinder the formal development of cryptocurrencies as a mainstream financial asset. It primarily examines reputationally damaging events, particularly those related to illicit behavior. The goal of the handbook is to determine whether some of these events could be mitigated by improved or at least coordinated international regulation. The handbook will be useful for specialist technical audiences such as legal, accounting and financial practices. It will also be beneficial for upper level masters and research students in economics, law, accounting, taxation, investment and portfolio management. |
| accounting for alternative investments: CAIA Level I CAIA Association, Mark J. P. Anson, 2009-10-02 Not to be used after March, 2012 Exams – CAIA Level I, 2nd Edition should be used to prepare for September 2012 Exam. The official study text for the Level I Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) exam The Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designation is the financial industry's first and only globally recognized program that prepares professionals to deal with the ever-growing field of alternative investments. The CAIA Level I: An Introduction to Core Topics in Alternative Investments contains all material on alternative investments that a potential Level I candidate would need to know as they prepare for the exam. The information found here will help you build a solid foundation in both traditional and alternative investment markets-for example, the range of statistics that are used to define investment performance as well as the many types of hedge fund strategies. It will also inform CAIA candidates on how to identify and describe aspects of financial markets, develop reasoning skills, and in some cases, make computations necessary to solve business problems. Contains need to know material for Level I candidates and for alternative investment specialists Addresses all of the unique attributes associated with the alternative investments space Organized with a study guide outline and learning objectives with key terms, available for free at www.caia.org/program/studyguides Focuses on alternative investments and quantitative techniques used by investment professionals This book is a must-have resource for anyone contemplating taking the CAIA Level I exam. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Alternative Investments CAIA Association, Hossein B. Kazemi, Keith H. Black, Donald R. Chambers, 2016-09-27 In-depth Level II exam preparation direct from the CAIA Association CAIA Level II is the official study guide for the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst professional examination, and an authoritative guide to working in the alternative investment sphere. Written by the makers of the exam, this book provides in-depth guidance through the entire exam agenda; the Level II strategies are the same as Level I, but this time you'll review them through the lens of risk management and portfolio optimisation. Topics include asset allocation and portfolio oversight, style analysis, risk management, alternative asset securitisation, secondary market creation, performance and style attribution and indexing and benchmarking, with clear organisation and a logical progression that allows you to customise your preparation focus. This new third edition has been updated to align with the latest exam, and to reflect the current practices in the field. The CAIA designation was developed to provide a standardized knowledge base in the midst of explosive capital inflow into alternative investments. This book provides a single-source repository of that essential information, tailored to those preparing for the Level II exam. Measure, monitor and manage funds from a risk management perspective Delve into advanced portfolio structures and optimisation strategies Master the nuances of private equity, real assets, commodities and hedge funds Gain expert insight into preparing thoroughly for the CAIA Level II exam The CAIA Charter programme is rigorous and comprehensive, and the designation is globally recognised as the highest standard in alternative investment education. Candidates seeking thorough preparation and detailed explanations of all aspects of alternative investment need look no further than CAIA Level II. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Alternative Investments Workbook CFA Institute, 2021-11-23 Hands-on practice with alternative investments based on real-world scenarios Alternative Investments Workbook provides the key component of effective learning—practice. Designed for both students and investment professionals, this companion workbook conveniently aligns with the Alternative Investments text chapter-by-chapter, offers brief chapter summaries to refresh your memory on key points before you begin working, and explicitly lays out the learning objectives so you understand the “why” of each problem. This workbook helps you: Synthesize essential material from the Alternative Investments text using real-world applications Understand the key characteristics of non-traditional investments Work toward specific chapter objectives to internalize important information CFA Institute is the world's premier association for investment professionals, and the governing body for the CFA® Program, CIPM® Program, CFA Institute ESG Investing Certificate, and Investment Foundations® Program. Those seeking a deeper understanding of the markets, mechanisms, and use of alternatives will value the level of expertise CFA Institute brings to the discussion as well as the extra practice delivered in Alternative Investments Workbook based on real scenarios investors face every day. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Accounting and Valuation Guide AICPA, 2019-10-08 Developed for preparers of financial statements, independent auditors, and valuation specialists, this guide provides nonauthoritative guidance and illustrations regarding the accounting for and valuation of portfolio company investments held by investment companies within the scope of FASB ASC 946, Financial Services —Investment Companies, (including private equity funds, venture capital funds, hedge funds, and business development companies). It features16 case studies that can be used to reason through real situations faced by investment fund managers, valuation specialists and auditors, this guide addresses many accounting and valuation issues that have emerged over time to assist investment companies in addressing the challenges in estimating fair value of these investments, such as: Unit of account Transaction costs Calibration The impact of control and marketability Backtesting |
| accounting for alternative investments: The Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive Dirk A. Zetzsche, 2015-09-14 Apart from MiFID, the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD) may be the most important European asset management regulation of the early twenty-first century. In this in-depth analytical and critical discussion of the content and system of the directive, thirty-eight contributing authors – academics, lawyers, consultants, fund supervisors, and fund industry experts – examine the AIFMD from every angle. They cover structure, regulatory history, scope, appointment and authorization of the manager, the requirements for depositaries and prime brokers, rules on delegation, reporting requirements, transitional provisions, and the objectives stipulated in the recitals and other official documents. The challenging implications and contexts they examine include the following: – connection with systemic risk and the financial crisis; - nexus with insurance for negligent conduct; - connection with corporate governance doctrine; - risk management; - transparency; - the cross-border dimension; - liability for lost assets; - impact on alternative investment strategies, and - the nexus with the European Regulation on Long-Term Investment Funds (ELTIFR). Nine country reports, representing most of Europe’s financial centres and fund markets add a national perspective to the discussion of the European regulation. These chapters deal with the potential interactions among the AIFMD and the relevant laws and regulations of Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, The Netherlands, Malta and the United Kingdom. The second edition of the book continues to deliver not only the much-needed discussion of the inconsistencies and difficulties when applying the directive, but also provides guidance and potential solutions to the problems it raises. The second edition considers all new developments in the field of alternative investment funds, their managers, depositaries, and prime brokers, including, but not limited to, statements by the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) and national competent authorities on the interpretation of the AIFMD, as well as new European regulation, in particular the PRIIPS Regulation, the ELTIF Regulation, the Regulation on European Venture Capital Funds (EuVeCaR), the Regulation on European Social Entrepreneurship Funds (EUSEFR), MiFID II, and UCITS V. The book will be warmly welcomed by investors and their counsel, fund managers, depositaries, asset managers, administrators, as well as regulators and academics in the field. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Alternative Investments: A Primer for Investment Professionals Donald R. Chambers, Keith H. Black, Nelson J. Lacey, 2018 Alternative Investments: A Primer for Investment Professionals provides an overview of alternative investments for institutional asset allocators and other overseers of portfolios containing both traditional and alternative assets. It is designed for those with substantial experience regarding traditional investments in stocks and bonds but limited familiarity regarding alternative assets, alternative strategies, and alternative portfolio management. The primer categorizes alternative assets into four groups: hedge funds, real assets, private equity, and structured products/derivatives. Real assets include vacant land, farmland, timber, infrastructure, intellectual property, commodities, and private real estate. For each group, the primer provides essential information about the characteristics, challenges, and purposes of these institutional-quality alternative assets in the context of a well-diversified institutional portfolio. Other topics addressed by this primer include tail risk, due diligence of the investment process and operations, measurement and management of risks and returns, setting return expectations, and portfolio construction. The primer concludes with a chapter on the case for investing in alternatives. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Alternative Investments CAIA Association, Donald R. Chambers, Hossein B. Kazemi, Keith H. Black, 2020-09-28 Whether you are a seasoned professional looking to explore new areas within the alternative investment arena or a new industry participant seeking to establish a solid understanding of alternative investments, Alternative Investments: An Allocator's Approach, Fourth Edition (CAIA Level II curriculum official text) is the best way to achieve these goals. In recent years, capital formation has shifted dramatically away from public markets as issuers pursue better financial and value alignment with ownership, less onerous and expensive regulatory requirements, market and information dislocation, and liberation from the short-term challenges that undergird the public capital markets. The careful and informed use of alternative investments in a diversified portfolio can reduce risk, lower volatility, and improve returns over the long-term, enhancing investors' ability to meet their investment outcomes. Alternative Investments: An Allocator's Approach (CAIA Level II curriculum official text) is a key resource that can be used to improve the sophistication of asset owners and those who work with them. This text comprises the curriculum, when combined with supplemental materials available at caia.org, for the CAIA Level II exam. Over the course of my long career one tenet has held true, 'Continuing Education'. Since CalSTRS is a teachers' pension plan, it is no surprise that continuing education is a core attribute of our Investment Office culture. Overseeing one of the largest institutional pools of capital in the world requires a cohesive knowledge and understanding of both public and private market investments and strategies. We must understand how these opportunities might contribute to delivering on investment outcomes for our beneficiaries. Alternative Investments: An Allocator's Approach is the definitive core instruction manual for an institutional investor, and it puts you in the captain's chair of the asset owner. —Christopher J. Ailman, Chief Investment Officer, California State Teachers’ Retirement System Given their diversified cash flow streams and returns, private markets continue to be a growing fixture of patient, long-term portfolios. As such, the need to have proficiency across these sophisticated strategies, asset classes, and instruments is critical for today's capital allocator. As a proud CAIA charterholder, I have seen the practical benefits in building a strong private markets foundation, allowing me to better assist my clients. —Jayne Bok, CAIA, CFA, Head of Investments, Asia, Willis Tower Watson |
| accounting for alternative investments: Alternative Investments CFA Institute, 2021-11-24 The complete guide to alternative investments, from experts working with CFA Institute Alternative Investments is the definitive guide to understanding non-traditional asset classes. Alternatives are a disparate group of investments that are distinguished from long-only, publicly traded investments in stocks, bonds, and cash (often referred to as traditional investments). Alternative investments include real estate, commodities, infrastructure, and other non-traditional investments such as private equity or debt and hedge funds. They are attractive to investors because of the potential for portfolio diversification resulting in a higher risk-adjusted return for the portfolio. Alternative Investments and its accompanying workbook (sold separately) lead students and investment professionals through the many characteristics of non-traditional assets, including: Narrow specialization of the investment managers Relatively low correlation of returns with those of traditional investments Less regulation and less transparency than traditional investments Limited historical risk and return data Unique legal and tax considerations Higher fees, often including performance or incentive fees Concentrated portfolios Restrictions on redemptions (i.e. “lockups” and “gates”) CFA Institute is the world's premier association for investment professionals, and the governing body for the CFA® Program, CIPM® Program, CFA Institute ESG Investing Certificate, and Investment Foundations® Program. Those seeking a deeper understanding of the markets, mechanisms, and use of alternatives will value the level of expertise CFA Institute brings to the discussion, providing a clear, comprehensive resource for students and professionals alike. Whether used alone or in conjunction with the companion workbook, Alternative Investments offers a complete course in alternative investments and their role in investment management. |
| accounting for alternative investments: The Handbook of Alternative Investments Darrell Jobman, 2002-10-10 The first comprehensive guide to all types of alternative investments The Handbook of Alternative Investments is an indispensable working resource for investment managers, financial advisors, pension and endowment fund trustees, corporate treasurers, consultants, and estate planners. Authored by an all-star team of investment professionals and academics from across North America, the contributions featured in this groundbreaking guide were carefully selected. Darrell Jobman is a writer and editorial consultant in Deerfield, Illinois, dealing primarily with financial and futures markets. He is an acknowledged authority on derivative markets and has spent his career writing and publishing about them. He formerly was editor-in-chief of Futures Magazine and is currently a contributing editor. He has been an author, co-author, editor, or ghost-writer for a number of books, including The Handbook of Technical Analysis. |
| accounting for alternative investments: FRS 102 , 2015 |
| accounting for alternative investments: Financial and Accounting Guide for Not-for-Profit Organizations, 2009 Cumulative Supplement Malvern J. Gross, John H. McCarthy, Nancy E. Shelmon, 2009-04-27 Financial And Accounting Guide For Not-For-Profit Organizations Seventh Edition 2009 Cumulative Supplement |
| accounting for alternative investments: CFA Program Curriculum: Derivatives and alternative investments , 2009 Sponsored by CFA Institute. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Taxation of U.S. Investment Partnerships and Hedge Funds Navendu P. Vasavada, 2010-07-13 A new, lucid approach to the formulation of accounting policies for tax reporting Unraveling the layers of complexity surrounding the formulation of accounting policies for tax reporting, Taxation of US Investment Partnerships and Hedge Funds: Accounting Policies, Tax Allocations and Performance Presentation enables your corporation to implement sound up-front accounting and tax policies in order to reduce the overall cost of CFO and legal functions within a U.S. Investment partnership. Understand the pitfalls and optimize across legitimate policies that are consistent with the IRS regulations Presents a clear roadmap for accounting, tax policies, tax filing and performance presentation for US investment partnerships and hedge funds Providing tremendous understanding to a complex topic, Taxation of US Investment Partnerships and Hedge Funds is guaranteed to demystify the inner workings of the formulation of accounting policies for tax reporting. |
| accounting for alternative investments: The End of Accounting and the Path Forward for Investors and Managers Baruch Lev, Feng Gu, 2016-06-27 An innovative new valuation framework with truly useful economic indicators The End of Accounting and the Path Forward for Investors and Managers shows how the ubiquitous financial reports have become useless in capital market decisions and lays out an actionable alternative. Based on a comprehensive, large-sample empirical analysis, this book reports financial documents' continuous deterioration in relevance to investors' decisions. An enlightening discussion details the reasons why accounting is losing relevance in today's market, backed by numerous examples with real-world impact. Beyond simply identifying the problem, this report offers a solution—the Value Creation Report—and demonstrates its utility in key industries. New indicators focus on strategy and execution to identify and evaluate a company's true value-creating resources for a more up-to-date approach to critical investment decision-making. While entire industries have come to rely on financial reports for vital information, these documents are flawed and insufficient when it comes to the way investors and lenders work in the current economic climate. This book demonstrates an alternative, giving you a new framework for more informed decision making. Discover a new, comprehensive system of economic indicators Focus on strategic, value-creating resources in company valuation Learn how traditional financial documents are quickly losing their utility Find a path forward with actionable, up-to-date information Major corporate decisions, such as restructuring and M&A, are predicated on financial indicators of profitability and asset/liabilities values. These documents move mountains, so what happens if they're based on faulty indicators that fail to show the true value of the company? The End of Accounting and the Path Forward for Investors and Managers shows you the reality and offers a new blueprint for more accurate valuation. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Factor Investing and Asset Allocation: A Business Cycle Perspective Vasant Naik, Mukundan Devarajan, Andrew Nowobilski , Sébastien Page, CFA, Niels Pedersen, 2016-12-30 |
| accounting for alternative investments: Asset Management and Institutional Investors Ignazio Basile, Pierpaolo Ferrari, 2016-07-27 This book analyses investment management policies for institutional investors. It is composed of four parts. The first one analyses the various types of institutional investors, institutions which, with different objectives, professionally manage portfolios of financial and real assets on behalf of a wide variety of individuals. This part goes on with an in-depth analysis of the economic, technical and regulatory characteristics of the different types of investment funds and of other types of asset management products, which have a high rate of substitutability with investment funds and represent their natural competitors. The second part of the book identifies and investigates the stages of the investment portfolio management. Given the importance of strategic asset allocation in explaining the ex post performance of any type of investment portfolio, this part provides an in-depth analysis of asset allocation methods, illustrating the different theoretical and operational solutions available to institutional investors. The third part describes performance assessment, its breakdown and risk control, with an in-depth examination of performance evaluation techniques, returns-based style analysis approaches, and performance attribution models. Finally, the fourth part deals with the subject of diversification into alternative asset classes, identifying the common characteristics and their possible role within the framework of investment management policies. This part analyses hedge funds, private equity, real estate, commodities, and currency overlay techniques. |
| accounting for alternative investments: The Alternative Investment Market Handbook Paul Watts, 2002 The second edition of this popular title distills the experience gained from the Alternative Investment Market's first five years. It highlights the enormous changes which have affected the market since publication of the first edition 3 years ago, to provide an essential business guide for all AIM company advisers. These changes include the surprise performance of smaller companies and the impact of rapid growth in the IT sector. Co-written by a company lawyer and a stockbroker, the book is a practical hands-on reference on all the legal, financial and business issues that are likely to arise. It includes statutory materials, AIM rules, precedents and forms, combined Codes of Practice, and a list of useful names and addresses. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Encyclopedia of Alternative Investments Greg N. Gregoriou, 2008-08-18 A pioneering reference essential in any financial library, the Encyclopedia of Alternative Investments is the most authoritative source on alternative investments for students, researchers, and practitioners in this area. Containing 545 entries, the encyclopedia focuses on hedge funds, managed futures, commodities, and venture capital. It features |
| accounting for alternative investments: Financial and Accounting Guide for Not-for-Profit Organizations Malvern J. Gross, 2010-05-03 This Seventh Edition is filled with authoritative advice on the financial reporting, accounting, and control situations unique to not-for-profit organizations. It contains discussions of the accounting and reporting guidelines for different types of organizations, complete guidance on tax and compliance reporting requirements, illustrated explanations of various types of acceptable financial statements, and much more!--Publisher's Website. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Research Handbook on Hedge Funds, Private Equity and Alternative Investments Phoebus Athanassiou, 2012-01-01 This unique and detailed Handbook provides a comprehensive source of analysis and research on alternative investment funds in the EU, the US and other leading jurisdictions. Expert contributors offer an unparalleled perspective on the contemporary alternative funds industry, the main areas of regulatory policy concern surrounding its activities, and the role that alternative funds have played in recent financial crises, as well as an account of the rules governing their operation in selected jurisdictions. Providing insight and analysis of the contemporary investment funds industry at a time of crisis and transition, the Research Handbook on Hedge Funds, Private Equity and Alternative Investments will be a valuable tool for scholars, practitioners and policymakers alike. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Fair Value Measurements International Accounting Standards Board, 2006 |
| accounting for alternative investments: Alternative Investments CAIA Association, Hossein B. Kazemi, Keith H. Black, Donald R. Chambers, 2016-09-22 In-depth Level II exam preparation direct from the CAIA Association CAIA Level II is the official study guide for the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst professional examination, and an authoritative guide to working in the alternative investment sphere. Written by the makers of the exam, this book provides in-depth guidance through the entire exam agenda; the Level II strategies are the same as Level I, but this time you'll review them through the lens of risk management and portfolio optimisation. Topics include asset allocation and portfolio oversight, style analysis, risk management, alternative asset securitisation, secondary market creation, performance and style attribution and indexing and benchmarking, with clear organisation and a logical progression that allows you to customise your preparation focus. This new third edition has been updated to align with the latest exam, and to reflect the current practices in the field. The CAIA designation was developed to provide a standardized knowledge base in the midst of explosive capital inflow into alternative investments. This book provides a single-source repository of that essential information, tailored to those preparing for the Level II exam. Measure, monitor and manage funds from a risk management perspective Delve into advanced portfolio structures and optimisation strategies Master the nuances of private equity, real assets, commodities and hedge funds Gain expert insight into preparing thoroughly for the CAIA Level II exam The CAIA Charter programme is rigorous and comprehensive, and the designation is globally recognised as the highest standard in alternative investment education. Candidates seeking thorough preparation and detailed explanations of all aspects of alternative investment need look no further than CAIA Level II. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Getting Started in Alternative Investments Matthew Dearth, Swee Yong Ku, 2023-06-06 Explore exciting alternatives to traditional securities in this eye-opening investment resource In Getting Started in Alternative Investments: Understanding the World of Investment Strategies, a team of accomplished investment and finance experts delivers a concise and robust exploration of mainstream and alternative investments. From cryptocurrencies to streetwear, you'll learn about new opportunities for investment capturing the imagination of the latest generation of investors. In this book, the authors discuss investments as varied as catastrophe bonds and non-fungible tokens, as well as the growing influence of the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) movement on different financial instruments. It also examines: More traditional alternatives to typical securities, like venture capital, private equity, and real estate-related investments Modern alternative investments, including alternative finance (e.g., peer-to-peer lending), insurance-linked securities, and impact investing Niche assets, such as intellectual property (e.g., royalties and patents), fractional ownership of collectibles, and income-sharing agreements Getting Started in Alternative Investments is a must-read book for individual and retail investors, as well as investment and finance professionals seeking to expand their investment horizons beyond traditional stocks and bonds. |
| accounting for alternative investments: General Theory Of Employment , Interest And Money John Maynard Keynes, 2016-04 John Maynard Keynes is the great British economist of the twentieth century whose hugely influential work The General Theory of Employment, Interest and * is undoubtedly the century's most important book on economics--strongly influencing economic theory and practice, particularly with regard to the role of government in stimulating and regulating a nation's economic life. Keynes's work has undergone significant revaluation in recent years, and Keynesian views which have been widely defended for so long are now perceived as at odds with Keynes's own thinking. Recent scholarship and research has demonstrated considerable rivalry and controversy concerning the proper interpretation of Keynes's works, such that recourse to the original text is all the more important. Although considered by a few critics that the sentence structures of the book are quite incomprehensible and almost unbearable to read, the book is an essential reading for all those who desire a basic education in economics. The key to understanding Keynes is the notion that at particular times in the business cycle, an economy can become over-productive (or under-consumptive) and thus, a vicious spiral is begun that results in massive layoffs and cuts in production as businesses attempt to equilibrate aggregate supply and demand. Thus, full employment is only one of many or multiple macro equilibria. If an economy reaches an underemployment equilibrium, something is necessary to boost or stimulate demand to produce full employment. This something could be business investment but because of the logic and individualist nature of investment decisions, it is unlikely to rapidly restore full employment. Keynes logically seizes upon the public budget and government expenditures as the quickest way to restore full employment. Borrowing the * to finance the deficit from private households and businesses is a quick, direct way to restore full employment while at the same time, redirecting or siphoning |
| accounting for alternative investments: Financial and Accounting Guide for Not-for-Profit Organizations John H. McCarthy, Nancy E. Shelmon, John A. Mattie, 2012-03-06 A completely revised and expanded edition of the nonprofit industry finance and accounting standard Filled with authoritative advice on the financial reporting, accounting, and control situations unique to not-for-profit organizations, Financial and Accounting Guide for Not-for-Profit Organizations, Eighth Edition is recognized by professionals as the industry standard reference on not-for-profit finance and accounting. Prepared by the PricewaterhouseCoopers Not-for-Profit Industry Services Group, the book includes accounting, tax, and reporting guidelines for different types of organizations, step-by-step procedures and forms, and more. A new chapter on public debt has also been added. Presents the latest updates to regulatory reporting and disclosure changes in recent years Reflects the totally revamped and revised AICPA accounting and audit guide for not-for-profit organizations Addresses concerns of all nonprofit organizations, including health and welfare organizations, colleges and universities, churches and other religious organizations, libraries, museums, and other smaller groups Includes step-by-step procedures and forms, detailed explanations of financial statements, and a how-to section on setting up and keeping the books Financial and Accounting Guide for Not-for-Profit Organizations, Eighth Edition is the completely revised and expanded new edition of the bestselling not-for-profit accounting guide. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Accountants' Handbook, Financial Accounting and General Topics D. R. Carmichael, Lynford Graham, 2012-06-05 This highly regarded reference is relied on by a considerable part of the accounting profession in their day-to-day work. This comprehensive resource is widely recognized and relied on as a single reference source that provides answers to all reasonable questions on accounting and financial reporting asked by accountants, auditors, bankers, lawyers, financial analysts, and other preparers and users of accounting information. The new edition reflects the new FASB Codification, and includes expanded coverage of fair value and guidance on developing fair value estimates, fraud risk and exposure, healthcare, and IFRS. |
| accounting for alternative investments: The Alternative Answer Bob Rice, 2013-05-14 The first book to explain the new world of alternative investing, showing how anyone can use nontraditional options to significantly increase returns and lower risks The world's elite investors have long relied on alternative investments to produce superior returns. Until now, these strategies were the exclusive purview of institutions and the superwealthy, but today any informed investor can play the same game. A rainbow of investment options—timber, start-ups, master limited partnerships (MLPs), hedged strategies, managed futures, infrastructure, peer-to-peer lending, farmland, and dozens of other nontraditional strategies—can provide dramatically better gains, with less total risk, than the standard choices. In The Alternative Answer, Bob Rice, Bloomberg TV's Alternative Investments Editor, leads an entertaining and easy- to-understand tour of this world, and suggests specific alternative investments for all four key jobs of a portfolio: safely generating more current income, decreasing risks of economic shocks, significantly increasing long-term profits, and protecting purchasing power over time. Regardless of experience or net worth, readers will learn exactly how to substantially improve investment performance—in the same way that the world's best investors already do. Stocks and bonds alone aren't nearly enough. Investors need an alternative answer and now they have it. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Alternative Investments Donald R. Chambers, Mark J. P. Anson, Keith H. Black, Hossein B. Kazemi, CAIA Association, 2020-03-16 Alternative Investments: CAIA Level I, 4th Edition is the curriculum book for the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) Level I professional examination. Covering the fundamentals of the alternative investment space, this book helps you build a foundation in alternative investment markets. You'll look closely at the different types of hedge fund strategies and the range of statistics used to define investment performance as you gain a deep familiarity with alternative investment terms and develop the computational ability to solve investment problems. From strategy characteristics to portfolio management strategies, this book contains the core material you will need to succeed on the CAIA Level I exam. This updated fourth edition tracks to the latest version of the exam and is accompanied by the following ancillaries: a workbook, study guide, learning objectives, and an ethics handbook. |
| accounting for alternative investments: Fair Value Measurements Mark L. Zyla, 2009-12-04 A hands-on volume for financial executives with guidance on the fair value measurement process In today's dynamic and volatile markets, whether buying or selling, what corporate officers need to know is the worth of an asset today, a task that for many has become complex and at times confusing. Fair Value Measurements: Practical Guidance and Implementation demystifies this topic, offering you a nuts-and-bolts guide of the most recent developments in preparing financial statements using fair value measurements. This straightforward book covers the best practices on measuring fair value in a business combination and how to subsequently test the value of these assets for impairment. Filters complicated insider concepts into easy-to-understand information on the valuation specialist's function Discusses the many new FASB pronouncements involving fair value Instantly familiarizes you on the ins and outs of fair value financial disclosure Well-written, conversational in tone, and filled with valuable insights, Fair Value Measurements: Practical Guidance and Implementation lifts the veil of confusion from the substantial and growing requirements for fair value disclosures. |
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