2022年全球对冲基金行业报告（英）-25页_2mb

Global Hedge Fund Industry: Accelerating Out of the Pandemic

Core Content

The global hedge fund industry has been significantly impacted by the shift to hybrid and remote working environments following the pandemic. This report highlights the challenges, opportunities, and strategic responses of firms in adapting to the new normal, with a focus on collaboration, talent retention, technological innovation, and investor relations.

Main Themes

1. Hybrid Working Model and Collaboration Challenges

• The hybrid working environment has become a central issue for hedge funds.
• Key challenges include:
  • Segregation of employees leading to team-building issues (34%).
  • Calendaring challenges and reduced spontaneous knowledge sharing (33%).
  • Negative impact on company culture (33%).
• Maintaining company culture and team building is the most significant concern (52%), followed by lack of real-time collaboration (30%).
• While remote work has proven viable, many firms are moving toward a model of 2–4 days in the office per week (46%).

2. War for Talent and Work-Life Balance

• The war for talent has intensified, with flexible working and improved work-life balance becoming key retention strategies.
• 67% of firms prioritize cultivating in-house talent as a top strategy.
• 46% of firms aim to use remote work to access global talent pools, particularly in underdeveloped regions like Asia-Pacific.
• Non-financial benefits, such as mental and physical health facilities, are also becoming more important (26%).
• Women may face challenges in certain hybrid environments, with a risk of missed advancement opportunities.

3. Technology as a Strategic Enabler

• Technology is seen as the central force driving innovation and adaptation across the industry.
• Key areas of focus include:
  • Alternative data and AI for enhanced research and risk management.
  • Cloud computing and cybersecurity as critical components of the new operational model.
• Cybersecurity is the top priority for middle- and back-office functions (41% and 39%, respectively), especially for smaller firms (53%).
• Intelligent automation is a growing trend, driven by worker scarcity, regulatory scrutiny, shareholder demands, and competitive pressures.
• Enterprise data management systems are now a strategic necessity due to the complexity of data and personnel movement in hybrid settings.

4. Investor Relations and Capital Raising

• Investor Relations (IR) has become a critical function in the post-pandemic era.
• 72% of respondents emphasized the importance of pre-existing relationships in retaining and growing capital.
• Larger managers have benefited from private credit and hybrid allocations, while emerging managers face fundraising challenges and rely on Friends and Family capital.
• Digital tools such as video conferencing and data sharing rooms have enhanced IR effectiveness.
• 56% of respondents expect most IR activities to continue in a virtual environment in the short-to-medium term.

5. ESG and Digital Assets

• ESG investing is gaining traction, though regulatory inconsistencies and lack of data standards pose challenges.
• 38% of firms are waiting for regulatory clarity on digital assets before investing.
• 29% of firms are restricted by contractual obligations from investing in digital currencies.
• The industry is in the early stages of integrating digital assets, with established funds likely to lead the way in 2022.

Key Insights

• The hybrid working model is expected to be the new standard, with firms balancing remote and in-office presence.
• Talent retention is a major concern, with flexible working and work-life balance becoming central to attracting and keeping top talent.
• Technology is a key enabler for innovation, efficiency, and risk management, with cybersecurity and data management as top priorities.
• Investor relations has evolved into a strategic function, with a growing emphasis on digital engagement and customized products.
• Private credit and hybrid strategies are shaping the future of portfolio development.
• The ESG and digital assets landscape remains uncertain, with firms awaiting regulatory guidance and standardization.

Summary of Survey Results

• 162 industry professionals were surveyed, representing $1 trillion in AUM.
• 53% of respondents were from large managers (AUM > $1 billion), while 47% were from smaller managers.
• 54% of respondents were from North America, 29% from EMEA, and 15% from Asia-Pacific.
• 74% of respondents identified hybrid working challenges as a concern, with team-building, calendaring, and culture being the top issues.

Conclusion

The hedge fund industry is well-prepared to navigate the post-pandemic landscape, with a clear focus on adaptation, innovation, and strategic transformation. While challenges persist in areas such as culture, collaboration, and ESG, the industry is leveraging technology and flexible working models to sustain growth and retain talent. The future of the industry will be shaped by its ability to balance digital efficiency with personal engagement and to align with evolving investor expectations.