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Published 17 Aug 2021

Hedge Funds: The Basics Explained

by Emily Atkinson-Dalton

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You have probably heard the term ‘Hedge Funds’ in passing but may not have understood what it actually means. So, what are hedge funds and how do they work?

Want to know what makes this type of investment different? keep reading and to learn more about the skills and knowledge that’s needed to start a career in this area. 


What are hedge funds?

Hedge Funds are a portfolio of alternative investments of funds that are not dependent on the market going up or down. They are market neutral and can be stocks, bonds, unregistered securities, or futures, but the aim of hedge funds is to get a high return on investments. 

Put simply, hedge funds are a fund of funds (pools of money from differing investors) used by hedge fund managers, sophisticated investors, and groups of accredited investors who want to reduce the risk of losing money. The team of individuals who form and decide on investment strategies are known as the general partners.


Hedge funds or mutual funds?

Hedge funds and mutual funds are both used by institutional investors through a pool of funds by accredited investors. However, whilst mutual funds are offered to the public for trading, hedge funds are private investments only available to accredited investors. 

Hedge funds are also unique due to their 2/20 fee structure, with 2% management fees covering investment vehicle operating costs and performance fees (also known as incentive fees) which is a 20% bonus for higher returns.


What does a hedge fund manager do?

Hedge Fund managers focus on reducing the risk of your investments and bringing about positive returns regardless of the current market status. 

They do this by finding and creating a portfolio of alternative investment opportunities (hedge funds). They are often attached to specific organisations; however, they also work with high net worth individuals and real estate. 

Liquidity has also been a high concern for hedge fund managers since the 2008 financial crisis, and good liquidity management can lead to successful hedge fund management. 

Tasks of a hedge fund manager include:

  • Conducting research into the market and analysing market trends
  • Setting up investment portfolios
  • Conversing with and advising clients about investment funds
  • Negotiating performance fees
  • Closely monitoring fund performance and making decisions
  • Choosing to buy or sell assets based on stock market knowledge
  • Using different hedge fund strategies such as short-selling, long/short equity and hedging
  • Discussing trade possibilities with analysts, clients, and hedge fund investors
  • Staying up to date with government regulations and interest rates

What qualifications do hedge fund managers need?

Hedge Fund Managers will need to have an undergraduate degree, usually in a financial, business, or numerical subject. Many companies also prefer candidates with a master’s degree in a relevant discipline. If you’re a recent graduate or student, you can look into courses that give an overview of hedge funds, such as the Hedge Fund Intro Series.

Following the academic requirements, some graduates undertake internships or short positions at local financial firms allowing them to gain hands-on experience in the industry and apply their theoretical knowledge to the real financial world.

After an internship, those who want to become managers will need to work their way up through work-based training. When the internship is over, many companies will take interns on for entry-level positions such as traders or analysts, and as they gain more experience, knowledge, and skills, they can work their way up through further training.


What other routes can I take to get into the hedge funds industry?

Don’t worry if you are interested in getting into the hedge fund industry but don’t have any financial qualifications. There are other routes into the industry, so do not give up just yet.

If you have completed a Bachelor’s in an unrelated discipline, you could do a master’s in a financial or business field. When applying, ensure that you emphasise your passion, interest, and knowledge in the subject. You can also take online courses such as the Henley Executive Hedge Fund Programme to give you a leg up.


Overall, a position within hedge fund management is suited to people who enjoy working in fast-paced environments and work well under pressure. This lucrative industry can be highly rewarding and can be an excellent way to explore the ins and outs of the world of finance.


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Emily Atkinson-Dalton

Emily is a freelance writer for coursesonline.co.uk, which she does alongside studying for her English Literature and Psychology degree. She enjoys creative hobbies such as writing, drawing, playing guitar and painting; as well as spending time with her three cats.

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