Canadian Securities Course (CSC) Level 2 Practice Exam

Which description relates to hedge funds as retail vehicles?

1. Use short, leverage, and derivatives.

2. Aka alternative investment strategies.

3. Redemption once per year, offered with prospectus.

4. Traded with a minimum investment of 1 mil, for accredited investors only.

The correct answer is: Use short, leverage, and derivatives.

The description that best relates hedge funds as retail vehicles is that they utilize short selling, leverage, and derivatives. Hedge funds are known for employing a range of advanced investment strategies, including these financial instruments, which aim to enhance returns and manage risk more dynamically compared to traditional mutual funds. Short selling allows hedge funds to profit from the decline in the value of assets, leverage amplifies potential returns (though it also increases risk), and derivatives can serve to hedge risks or speculate on price movements. While these strategies attract sophisticated investors seeking higher returns, they also indicate the complexity and risk profile of hedge funds. In contrast, the other options describe aspects that do not universally define hedge funds as retail investment vehicles. While alternative investment strategies are integral to hedge funds, not all hedge funds are considered retail products or available to the average investor. The aspect of redemption frequency points towards liquidity concerns typically associated with hedge funds, which may have less frequent redemption opportunities. Finally, the minimum investment and accreditation status indicate that many hedge funds are targeted at high-net-worth individuals rather than the general retail market.