The AIFMD provides a harmonized European framework for regulating alternative investment funds. Prior to discussing its details, this chapter introduces to the AIFMD, discussing the developments that led to its adoption (Part 1), the AIFMD's principal objectives (Part 2) and its key tools for...

The digital transformation is disrupting the financial sector. Venture capital, private equity and hedge funds are also affected. We see more and more firms implement emerging technologies in their investment process. There are several common trends. Big Data analytics and the use of artificial...

This study aims to analyse the provisions of the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council (2011/61/EU) which pertain to its scope. It is divided into two Sections:(a) Section A offers an overview of the legal framework governing alternative...

As interest in art as an alternative asset class has grown in recent years so has the emergence of art investment vehicles. These vehicles seek to capitalize on the inherent inefficiencies of the art market and provide the potential to identify, create and execute transactions in works of art at...

In a continuing low-interest rate environment that stifles fixed income returns, pension funds are under increasing pressure to produce strong returns from other asset classes, including alternative assets like interests in hedge funds, private equity funds, and venture capital funds. As private...

This paper argues that the key mechanisms protecting retail investors' financial stake in their portfolio investments are indirect. They do not rely on actions by the investors or by any private actor directly charged with looking after investors' interests. Rather, they are provided by the...

We investigate the valuation effects of industry rivals on German firms targeted by hedge funds and private equity investors. We argue that both types of investors differ from other block holders due to their strong motivation and ability to actively engage and monitor. We find that the...

According to the often-cited CapCo study (2003) about hedge fund failures, 50% of the failures were driven by Operational Risk. Not only for hedge funds, but also for other asset management companies – such as private equity companies, family offices or independent asset managers - operational...