This table shows the aggregate assets and liabilities of hedge funds that file Form PF with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Unlike table B.101.f in the regular Financial Accounts publication, which reports assets and liabilities of domestic hedge funds only, this table presents data on all hedge funds that file Form PF, both domestic and foreign.

The hedge fund industry boomed in the 1990s, and the value of assets managed by hedge funds worldwide grew steadily until 2007. The value fell markedly the following year because of the financial crisis and did not recover until 2013. In 2024, the value of assets under management (AUM) of hedge funds reached over **** trillion U.S. dollars. Which firms dominate the hedge fund industry? The biggest hedge funds in the market typically attain their size by combining exceptional results, a solid track record, and efficient risk management tactics. In 2023, Field Street Capital Management was the biggest hedge fund company, with nearly *** billion U.S. dollars of assets under management. Some other prominent global hedge funds by AUM include Citadel, Bridgewater Associates, Mariner Investment Group LLC, etc. These industry giants often boast a diverse range of investment strategies and maintain a global presence, which allows them to capitalize on opportunities across diverse sectors and assets. Hedge Funds: What's changing? Hedge funds constantly tweak their investment strategies to keep up with market shifts. The cryptocurrency market introduces a novel asset class that is distinct from traditional financial markets. Therefore, the primary reason behind hedge funds investing in digital assets was to diversify their portfolios. The escalating interest in cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology prompted hedge funds to explore new prospects and risks associated with digital assets. In 2021, the average assets under management of crypto hedge funds more than doubled from the previous year, rising from ** to ** million U.S. dollars.

Consistent growth in assets under management (AUM) has immensely benefited the Hedge Funds industry over the past five years. Industry servicers invest capital they receive from a variety of investor types across a broad range of asset classes and investment strategies. Operators collect a fee for the amount of money they manage for these clients and a percentage of gains they are able to generate on invested assets. This business model helped industry revenue climb at a CAGR of 7.7% to $127.4 billion over the past five years, including an expected incline of 5.7% in 2024. Despite economic volatility in 2020 due to the pandemic lowering interest rates, an incline in the value of stocks in 2020 positively affected many hedge funds. The S&P 500 climbed 16.3% in 2020, which helped increase AUM. Although industry professionals question the relevance of benchmarking hedge fund returns against equity performance, given that hedge funds rely on a range of instruments other than stocks, the industry's poor performance relative to the S&P 500 has begun to raise concern from some investors. These trends have affected the industry's structure, with the traditional 2.0 and 20.0 structure of a flat fee on total AUM and a right-to-earned profit deteriorating into a 1.4 and 16.0 arrangement. As a result, industry profit, measured as earnings before interest and taxes, has been hindered over the past five years. Industry revenue is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% to $148.5 billion over the next five years. AUM is forecast to continue increasing at a consistent rate, partly due to the diversification benefits that hedge funds provide. Nonetheless, increased regulation stemming from the global financial crisis and an escalating focus on the industry's tax structure has the potential to harm industry profit. Further economic uncertainty stemming from heightened inflation and persistently high interest rates is anticipated to dampen any large-scale growth for the industry as more hedge funds take a hawkish approach in their investment portfolio moving forward. Regardless, the number of new hedge funds is forecast to trend with AUM and revenue over the next five years.

Hedge Funds Market Outlook

The global hedge funds market size was valued at approximately $3.5 trillion in 2023 and is projected to reach around $5.7 trillion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% during the forecast period. Driving this growth is a combination of market volatility, investor demand for diversified investment strategies, and the evolving landscape of financial regulations.

One of the primary growth factors for the hedge funds market is the increased appetite for risk-adjusted returns. Investors, especially in the wake of economic uncertainties and market volatilities, are increasingly gravitating towards hedge funds that promise higher returns compared to traditional investment vehicles like mutual funds. This is particularly true for institutional investors, who seek diversified portfolios that can weather market downturns while capitalizing on growth opportunities.

Moreover, advancements in financial technology are significantly contributing to the expansion of the hedge fund market. The application of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics is enabling hedge fund managers to make more informed decisions, optimize trading strategies, and enhance portfolio management. These technological innovations are not only improving the efficiency of hedge funds but also attracting a new generation of tech-savvy investors.

Additionally, the evolving regulatory landscape is shaping the growth trajectory of the hedge fund industry. While stringent regulations can pose challenges, they also bring a level of transparency and stability that can attract more conservative investors. For instance, regulations that mandate higher disclosure standards and investor protections can enhance the credibility of hedge funds, making them more appealing to a broader investor base.

In terms of regional outlook, North America continues to dominate the hedge funds market, accounting for the largest market share. The presence of a robust financial infrastructure, a high concentration of institutional investors, and a favorable regulatory environment are some of the key factors driving the market in this region. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period, driven by the rising number of high net worth individuals and the increasing adoption of alternative investment strategies.

Strategy Type Analysis

The hedge funds market is segmented by strategy type into Equity Hedge, Event-Driven, Macro, Relative Value, and Others. Each of these strategies offers unique approaches to generating returns, catering to different investor risk appetites and market conditions. Equity Hedge strategies, which focus on equity markets by taking both long and short positions, dominate the market due to their capacity to mitigate risk while capturing stock market gains.

Event-Driven strategies, which capitalize on corporate events such as mergers, acquisitions, and restructurings, are increasingly gaining traction. These strategies are particularly appealing in volatile market conditions where corporate actions can lead to significant price movements. The ability to exploit inefficiencies around these events makes Event-Driven strategies a critical component of diversified hedge fund portfolios.

Macro strategies, which take positions based on economic and political views of entire countries or regions, offer a broad level of diversification. These strategies leverage global macroeconomic trends and are particularly valuable in uncertain economic climates. The growing interconnectedness of global markets has made Macro strategies increasingly relevant, as they can capture opportunities across various asset classes and geographies.

Relative Value strategies focus on identifying price discrepancies between related securities. This approach involves statistical arbitrage and market-neutral strategies that seek to profit from the relative price movements of securities rather than their absolute price movements. The rise of quantitative trading and algorithmic models has significantly bolstered the effectiveness and popularity of Relative Value strategies.

Lastly, the 'Others' category includes niche strategies such as distressed securities, multi-strategy, and fund of funds. These strategies offer specialized approaches that cater to specific market conditions or investor preferences. Multi-strategy funds, for instance, combine various hedge fund strategies within a s

Graph and download economic data for Hedge Funds; Total Financial Assets, Level (BOGZ1FL624090005A) from 1945 to 2024 about Hedge Fund, financial, assets, and USA.

As of September 2023, European hedge funds had varying rates of exposure to various industries. The sector accounting for the second-highest rate of exposure for European hedge funds was consumer discretionary, displaying a rate slightly below 10 percent. European hedge funds had the lowest exposure to the real estate market, with a net exposure rate of less than one percent.

Graph and download economic data for Hedge Funds; Total Financial Liabilities, Level (BOGZ1FL624190005Q) from Q4 1945 to Q4 2024 about Hedge Fund, liabilities, financial, and USA.

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Hedge Fund Market in US Size 2025-2029

The US hedge fund market size is forecast to increase by USD 738 billion at a CAGR of 8.1% between 2024 and 2029.

US Hedge Fund Market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing investor interest in alternative investment options. This trend is driven by the desire for higher returns and risk diversification, leading to a surge in assets under management. Furthermore, technological advancements are transforming the hedge fund industry, enabling companies to offer innovative solutions and improve operational efficiency. However, the market is not without challenges. Regulatory constraints continue to pose significant obstacles, with stringent regulations governing fund operations, investor protection, and transparency.
Compliance with these regulations requires substantial resources and expertise, presenting a significant challenge for hedge fund managers. Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities and navigate these challenges effectively must stay informed of regulatory developments and invest in robust compliance frameworks. Additionally, leveraging technology to streamline operations and enhance transparency can help hedge funds remain competitive and meet investor demands.

What will be the Size of the Hedge Fund Market in US during the forecast period?

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US hedge funds market activities and evolving patterns continue to unfold, shaping the industry's landscape. Hedge funds employ various strategies, such as quantitative methods, algorithmic trading, and relative value strategies, to manage risk and generate alpha. Investor relations play a crucial role in attracting and retaining capital from high-net-worth individuals, family offices, pension funds, and institutional investors. Fund of funds and multi-strategy funds offer diversification, while big data analytics and alternative data inform investment decisions. Machine learning and artificial intelligence enhance risk management and performance measurement. Regulatory compliance and transparency are essential components of hedge fund operations, ensuring liquidity and mitigating drawdowns.
Market dynamics are influenced by various factors, including hedge fund leverage, volatility, and capacity. Hedge fund managers must navigate these complexities to deliver competitive returns, employing due diligence and effective fee structures. Hedge fund distribution channels, such as conferences and sales efforts, facilitate access to new investors. The hedge fund market is a continually evolving ecosystem, where technology, regulatory requirements, and investor expectations shape the industry's future. Hedge fund liquidation and exit strategies, performance fees, and risk appetite are critical considerations for hedge fund managers and investors alike. Ultimately, the hedge fund industry's success hinges on its ability to adapt and innovate in a rapidly changing financial landscape.

How is this Hedge Fund in US Industry segmented?

The hedge fund in US industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Offshore
  Domestic
  Fund of funds


Method

  Long and short equity
  Event driven
  Global macro
  Others


End-user

  Institutional
  Individual


Fund Structure

  Small (
  Medium (USD500M-USD2B)
  Large (>USD2B)


Investor Type

  Institutional
  High-Net-Worth Individuals


Geography

  North America

    US

By Type Insights

The offshore segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The offshore segment of the hedge fund market in the US houses funds that are managed or marketed by American firms but are domiciled and operated in offshore jurisdictions. These funds, located in financial centers known for their favorable regulatory environments, tax treatment, and legal infrastructure, offer investors tax efficiency through lower or zero taxation on investment income, capital gains, and distributions. The reduced regulatory burden in offshore jurisdictions enables greater flexibility in fund operations, investment strategies, and disclosure obligations, making offshore hedge funds an appealing choice for tax-conscious investors. Portfolio construction, risk management, and hedge fund allocation strategies are crucial elements for these funds, with relative value and long-short equity strategies commonly employed.

Performance fees and management fees are the primary revenue sources for hedge fund managers, while family offices and institutional investors provide significant hedge fund capital. Regulatory compliance and due diligence are essential for investors, ensuring transparency and performance measurement. Hedge fund research, risk appetite, and investor r

The US hedge fund market, a significant segment of the global alternative investment landscape, is projected to experience robust growth over the forecast period (2025-2033). With a 2025 market size estimated at $2.77 trillion (based on global data and US market dominance), a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.52% suggests a substantial expansion. This growth is driven by several factors, including increasing institutional investor participation seeking higher returns beyond traditional asset classes, the ongoing development of sophisticated investment strategies like quantitative and data-driven approaches, and a persistent need for diversification within investment portfolios. While regulatory scrutiny and economic uncertainty pose potential constraints, the adaptability of hedge fund managers and their capacity to navigate market volatility are expected to mitigate these risks. Specific strategies like equity, macro, and event-driven approaches continue to attract significant capital, alongside the rising prominence of more specialized niche strategies catering to unique market opportunities. The concentration of major players like Bridgewater Associates and Renaissance Technologies within the US contributes significantly to the market's strength and dynamism. The competitive landscape within the US hedge fund market remains fiercely contested. Established firms consistently refine their strategies and leverage technological advancements to maintain an edge, while emerging managers seek to differentiate themselves through innovative approaches. Geographic concentration, with a significant portion of the market residing in major financial hubs like New York and Connecticut, suggests opportunities for regional expansion and potential diversification into less saturated areas. The ongoing evolution of technology, particularly within artificial intelligence and machine learning, is expected to significantly impact investment strategies and operational efficiencies across the industry, driving further growth and innovation in the coming years. The overall outlook remains optimistic, with the US hedge fund market poised for considerable expansion fueled by evolving investor demands and the inherent resilience of alternative investment strategies. Recent developments include: January 2024: The Palm Beach Hedge Fund Association (PBHFA), the premier trade association for investors and financial professionals in South Florida, and Entoro, a leading boutique finance and investment banking group, announced a strategic partnership to improve deal distribution for hedge funds., October 2022: Divya Nettimi, a former Viking Global Investors portfolio manager who oversaw over USD 4 billion at the Greenwich, Connecticut-based hedge fund firm, became the first woman to launch a hedge fund that has committed more than USD 1 billion.. Key drivers for this market are: Positive Trends in Equity Market is Driving the Market. Potential restraints include: Positive Trends in Equity Market is Driving the Market. Notable trends are: Rise of the Crypto Hedge Funds in United States.

As of 2024, there were roughly over ***** equity long/short hedge funds operating worldwide. These are hedge funds that take both long and short positions in investments. While multi-strategy hedge funds were among the top performers by net annualized return, these hedge fund types formed a lower portion of the hedge fund pool, with *** being operational in 2024. Growth of the hedge fund industry The hedge fund industry has experienced steady growth since its boom in the 1990s. Despite facing setbacks including that of the 2008 fiscal crisis, the industry has rebounded, managing assets valued at over ************* U.S. dollars in 2024. This continued success has been partly due to the industry's resilience and adaptability, adjusting investment strategies and portfolio holdings to changing market dynamics. How do different fund strategies impact performance? Hedge fund performance can vary considerably depending on the investment strategy adopted. Those following a multi-strategy approach achieved the highest net performance over one-, three-, and five-year periods. This strategy allocates funds across multiple sub-strategies and asset classes, resulting in highly diverse portfolios with a one-year median net performance exceeding ** percent in 2024. Conversely, arbitrage strategies, which leverage mispricing in equity shares to generate maximum returns, delivered the ************* net returns over a one-year period in 2024.

In 2024, hedge funds following an arbitrage strategy had the ************* net returns over a one-year period. This form of investment strategy seeks to benefit from mispricings of the same asset or a similar financial asset. Hedge funds generating the ****** one-year return were those that followed a bond strategy, generating a net loss of **** percent.

Market Size statistics on the Hedge Funds industry in United States

From 2021 through to May 2024, the level of fund flows for global hedge funds was quite volatile. 2022, saw the largest volume of fund outflows, totaling roughly *** billion U.S. dollars. In 2023, however, funds began to generate a lower level of outflow, with fixed income/credit hedge funds minimizing its outflow to roughly *** billion U.S. dollars.

We propose a dynamic measure of extremal connectedness tailored to the short reporting period and unbalanced nature of hedge funds data. Using multivariate extreme value regression techniques, we estimate this measure conditional on factors reflecting the economic uncertainty and the state of the financial markets, and derive risk indicators reflecting the likelihood of extreme spillovers. Empirically, we study the dynamics of tail dependencies between hedge funds grouped per investment strategies, as well as with the banking sector. We show that during crisis periods, some pairs of strategies display an increase in their extremal connectedness, revealing a higher likelihood of simultaneous extreme losses. We also find a sizable tail dependence between hedge funds and banks, indicating that banks are more likely to suffer extreme losses when the hedge fund sector does. Our results highlight that a proactive regulatory framework should account for the dynamic nature of the tail dependence and its link with financial stress.

The performance of hedge funds by investment strategy varied greatly. In 2019, hedge funds following an arbitrage strategy generated net returns of two percent, this was in stark contrast to equity hedge funds, which yielded a net return of almost 24 percent. In 2024, however, there was a smaller spread in the rates of returns generated, with the lowest rate of returns being -1.69 and the highest rate remaining below 15 percent.

As of 2024, hedge funds following a multi-strategy had the highest net performance not only over a one-year period, but also over the span of a three and five-year. During this year, investors who adopted this strategy attained a median net performance of over 11 percent in one-year, while generating a median of over nine percent within the five-year span. By combining various hedge fund strategies in a single portfolio, multi-strategy investment funds allows investors to diversify their portfolio while mitigating risk and increasing return potential.

Market Size statistics on the Private Equity, Hedge Funds & Investment Vehicles industry in United States

Employment statistics on the Hedge Funds industry in the US

Hedge Fund Software Market size was valued at USD 1.69 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 4.82 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 14% during the forecast period 2026-2032.

Hedge fund software refers to specialized tools and platforms that help hedge funds manage their operations, investing strategies, and regulatory compliance more effectively. These software solutions offer a wide range of features, including as portfolio management, risk assessment, trade execution, reporting, and data analytics. They are designed to address the specific demands of hedge funds, which frequently deal with complicated investment instruments and require extensive research to maximize returns while minimizing risks.

The use of hedge fund software extends across several operational aspects of a hedge fund organization. Portfolio management software, for example, enables fund managers to monitor and evaluate their investment portfolios in real time, assisting them in rebalancing holdings and optimizing asset allocation techniques. Risk management software assists in recognizing and managing investment risks, so guaranteeing that the fund's overall risk exposure remains below acceptable levels.

The future of hedge fund software is expected to see tremendous development and innovation. As technology advances, we should expect to see more integration of AI and machine learning capabilities into software applications. These innovations will improve predictive analytics and decision-making processes, allowing hedge funds to stay ahead in a competitive market.

The United Kingdom Hedge Funds Market is Segmented by Investment Strategy (Equity Long/Short, Global Macro, Event-Driven, and More), Investor Type (Pension Funds, Insurance Companies, and More), Distribution Channel (Direct Sales, Placement Agents/Intermediaries, and More), Fund Domicile & Structure (UK-Onshore, Offshore, Cayman, and More), and Region. The Market Forecasts are Provided in Value (USD).