Managers will use those algorithms, strategies and custom-built models to guide their investment decisions. Whereas decisions relating to a standard hedge fund are based on discretionary decision making, the decisions within a quantitative hedge fund will follow a strategy that is devised using complex analytics and algorithms. At least some of the decision-making process will be automated, meaning that there is no need for individuals to identify and evaluate for themselves. It is possible for hedge funds to be a combination of strategies, but the majority will be either quantitative or fundamental.
What Is a Hedge Fund?
A hedge fund is an investment strategy that uses pooled money from investors. The specific hedge funds can vary depending on the techniques which are being administered. They require a substantial initial investment and are one of the higher-risk investment strategies available. This also means that they can offer a very high return.
Key Terms
Quantitative hedge fund – A quantitative hedge fund looks at fundamental data in a systematic (often automated) way before making investment decisions Fundamental hedge fund – Fundamental data is analyzed by individuals rather than by computer systems. Strategies and decisions are implemented manually Fundamental data – Information such as economic data, financial data, demographic information and supply and demand data
List of Quantitative Hedge Funds
When you consider companies to invest with, there are a large number of options to choose from. This is no different when it comes to finding a quantitative hedge fund. Finding the right company for your needs is important. They will all be slightly different and offer different focuses and options. Offers investment models which are both automated and operated by human expertise. Trades on an almost 24-hour basis, resulting in tens of thousands of individual transactions each day. Portfolios are automatically re-optimized.
Uses a combination of automated analysis and decision-making algorithms alongside expert investment professionals to create a sensible but not static approach to investment.
It offers a substantial rate of return when compared to competitors. The firm offers options for those looking for private investments and venture capital investments.
Established in 1987, MAN AHL is one of the oldest quantitative hedge fund providers.
It focuses on predicting short and medium-term market changes and pattern recognition to provide returns.
Focuses primarily on long-term investments and risk management. Quantitative models are designed to use common sense as well as historical data to make up-to-date decisions.
Strategies are designed to be risk-smart, identifying possible risks and modulating portfolio positions to account for changes in the markets.
Offers equity strategies and multi-asset strategy options.
Manages income trading strategies and enhanced fixed income products. Investment themes are driven by alpha generation and are designed to remain neutral, investing primarily in G7 global markets.
Uses quantitative measures similar to traditional investment strategies while removing emotional impulses and the risk of human error.
Operates risk management strategies that focus on three key areas: liquidity management, risk capital allocation and capital exposure.
These algorithms will then create strategies regarding how investments are made. A broker oversees the system; however, the process is mostly automated. This is different from other hedge fund systems, including those which use quantitative features alongside traditional features because there is very little human involvement. Decisions are made based on the limits outlined in the algorithm, and many of the functions are performed automatically. A fundamental hedge fund may use quantitative measures to analyze data, but individual brokers make decisions.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Quantitative Funds?
As with any form of investment, there will be positives and negatives. It is important to understand both before making an investment.
Advantages
Reduced risk of human error Quant funds generally offer a high return on investments Data can be analyzed much faster, meaning that decisions are based on up-to-date information Investment decisions can be made more quickly than those being decided by individuals Because actions are based on evidence, results are much more predictable, especially when it comes to risk and return Strategies and algorithms are rigorously tested before being used
Disadvantages
A large initial investment is required The use of artificial intelligence can run the risk that multiple quant funds will make the same decisions simultaneously. This has the potential to create volatile markets It can take a relatively long period to see returns, so the long-term investment is generally required Most quant systems are unable to account for subjective factors such as social practices and human nature When the algorithms fail, they tend to fail substantially; meaning that the losses have the potential to be extreme Decisions are based on the analysis of past data, which essentially means that they only look at historical events, and this can be an issue as history doesn’t always repeat itself in exactly the same way
How to Invest in Quantitative Hedge Funds
If you have never invested in a hedge fund before, then it can be confusing to know where to start. There are a few things to think about before choosing your ideal quantitative hedge fund company and making an investment.
Research
How does the firm conduct its research, and what type of process is followed for designing software and creating strategies? You will want to choose an investment firm that has sound research behind its strategies and processes. Some things to consider are:
If there are too many parameters, then it can lead to unreliable results A reliance on hindsight data can be risky as it uses information that wouldn’t have been known at the time When creators find a strategy that works by accident rather than design, this would indicate a risk as there is the potential for them to not fully understand how or why it works
Investigate the Execution Capabilities
A company that is expert in execution will generally offer better performance and overall returns. Understanding how and when to act concerning other market activity can help avoid other companies manipulating the strategy to benefit themselves.
What Is the Investment Infrastructure?
Quantitative hedge funds are essentially technology-based businesses. It is important to understand how investment is managed as well as how the team is structured overall. Poor investment in technological infrastructure can lead to failings within the company. A strong infrastructure will allow for efficient research and positive results.
Risk Management
All investment companies should have a degree of risk management built into their systems. This is designed to protect both themselves and the investor. Making sure that whichever company you choose has sufficient risk management strategies in place is important. Without it, volatile markets can leave you with significant losses.
Transparency
The world of investments and hedge funds is notoriously non-transparent although companies are getting better at sharing information. When looking for transparency, you don’t necessarily want a company that will show your starting and finishing positions every single day, but regular updates on performance and expectations are helpful.
Final Thoughts
If you are considering investing, but don’t necessarily have a lot of time to oversee those investments or would prefer to use a system that removes the risk of human error, then quantitative hedge funds may be the right choice for you. When done effectively, quantitative hedge funds can offer a high return on your investment. However, it is always important to remember that no investment is without risk, and you should never invest more than you can afford to lose.
