Gemini Alternative Funds brought together a variety of experts on alternative investments at "Gemini Forum: Behind the Scenes of Alternatives," held in New York City on 8 October.
The registered investment advisors (RIAs) and journalists who attended the event were given an opportunity to learn about the benefits managed account platforms offer to investors seeking access to alternative investment strategies.
The industry experts also discussed why strategies focused on managed futures are attractive in the present environment.
"Liquid alternatives are growing fast, and this trend may likely continue for at least the next few years," says David Young, president of Gemini Alt. "RIAs need to know how to best deliver these strategies to their clients, and managed account platforms provide a solution by offering liquid, transparent, stable and comprehensive exposure as well as operational independence."
The conference featured panel discussions about topics such as defining and selecting managed account platforms; why they are helpful to fund managers, financial advisors and investors; how managed account platforms affect alternative investment swaps structure, mechanics and trade execution; and differences in structuring requirements for liquid alternative funds in the U.S. and Europe. The speakers also provided insight into managed futures and why the current environment may be an ideal time to invest in the asset class.
"We are committed to educating the wealth management and investment communities at large about liquid alternatives and managed account platforms, and we are glad the Gemini Forum attendees came away with a better understanding of this evolving area of the market," says Young. "We will continue to pursue opportunities to help advisors and investors better understand liquid alternative strategies and the role managed account platforms can play in obtaining exposure to those strategies."
In addition to Young, speakers included Timothy Selby, partner at Alston + Bird LLP and head of the law firm's investment management practice; Martin Bergin, president of Dunn Capital Management, who helps construct and manage his firm's managed futures portfolios; Andrew Dollery, senior director in the prime services group at Societe Generale Corporate & Investment Bank's SG Newedge division, who originates and structures new business for the firm; and Esther Goodman, co-founder of Conyers Consulting Group, who has more than 30 years of experience in the alternative investment industry.
