This paper is the first to present evidence on the magnitude of derivative use by mutual funds. Using a unique data set of detailed balance sheet information on open-end mutual funds, we characterize the nature of derivative use by these funds. Most mutual funds using derivatives do so to a very...

We explore a new dimension of fund managers' timing ability by examining whether they can time market liquidity through adjusting their portfolios' market exposure as aggregate liquidity conditions change. Using a large sample of hedge funds, we find strong evidence of liquidity timing. A...

We investigate an important question for institutional investors — namely, which hedge fund investing styles help to hedge against bad times? We define good versus bad times as (1) up and down equity market regimes derived from the 200-day moving average of the S&P 500 price index or (2)...

Using comprehensive quarterly data on hedge fund stock holdings, we study the role of hedge funds in the process of stock price formation. We find that hedge funds tend to hold undervalued stocks, and that both hedge fund ownership and their trades are positively related to the degree of stock...