Investment adviser An investment adviser, or “fund manager,” is typically responsible for overseeing the fund’s daily operations and managing the fund’s assets while adhering to the fund’s investment objectives. The investment adviser may hire one or more sub-advisers to assist in the management of the fund and otherwise gain access to a particular area of...

What is a BDC? Business development companies, or BDCs, enable the flow of capital from individual investors to private U.S. middle market companies. By pooling investments from individuals, BDCs help provide many middle market companies with the capital they need to operate and grow. A BDC must invest at least 70% of its assets in...

What is a closed-end fund? Closed-end funds (CEFs) are investment companies that pool the assets of shareholders to invest in a wide range of securities. There are two varieties, publicly traded and unlisted, and both are regulated under the Investment Company Act of 1940.  Publicly traded (traditional) closed-end funds issue a fixed number of shares...

What is a mutual fund? Mutual funds are investment companies that pool the assets of shareholders to invest in securities such as stocks, bonds and short-term money market instruments. Also known as open-end investment companies, mutual funds provide certain advantages to individuals, such as providing access to a diversified, professionally managed portfolio of securities with low...

What is a REIT? A real estate investment trust, or REIT, is a company that owns, operates or finances income-producing commercial real estate or related assets. In this way, REITs allow investors to “own” or help finance real estate assets by simply owning shares. REITs invest in a broad range of property types including office...