Bond indices’ risk exposures are very unstable measures over time, and further this instability is accentuated in the indices with the smallest number of bonds, according to research by EDHEC-Risk Institute which examines two sets of four corporate investment-grade bond indices in the US and Europe. It concludes that the more investable the index is meant to be, the less reliable it is.
Chicago cops’ fight for survival
The Chicago Policemen’s Annuity and Benefit Fund is nearly 125 years old, but with a funding level of merely 35 per cent, it is perilously dehydrated. Chief investment officer Sam Kunz discusses his investment plan for the fund’s survival.
Service providers key to ESG development
There is nothing like a bit of red-hot competition to get the blood pumping – 37 Principle for Responsible Investment (PRI) signatories are running for only six positions on the newly-structured PRI Advisory Council. Let’s hope this has the effect of actually transforming institutional investment portfolios, not just getting these responsible types a little spirited.
CalPERS looks for emerging private equity managers
Domestic emerging managers are the latest focus in the private equity portfolio of the $239 billion CalPERS, with the fund searching for a new investment vehicle, most likely a customised fund-of-funds, to invest in partnerships that may be under-capitalised.
Managers refine glidepaths for a smoother ride
Managers are continuing to refine their strategies for target date funds, with more than a third of managers incorporating a tactical overlay into their asset allocation, a recent survey has revealed.
Nasty surprises on the rise for investors, says ESG expert
Corporate disasters such as the BP Gulf of Mexico oil spill and the Fukushima nuclear disaster will be more prevalent and pose a greater risk to investors unless they act to comprehensively change the way they invest, a sustainability expert has warned.
