Asset Management

Have you articulated an Investment Philosophy that meets the test of reality and documentation?

What are the key determinants to your consistent, money management success?

What systems do you have in place to ensure that all client portfolios—. small or large — get served in a fair and timely manner? Can you say that every client is being served as your best client?

What is your methodology to produce superior risk-adjusted returns?

How do you document your Investment Strategy process and how does your firm make investment decisions?

What theories and information framework underpin your approach to surveying the globe for attractive opportunities and avoidable risks?

What is the frequency of investment committee meetings and portfolio reviews? What are the backgrounds of each member of this investment committee?

What is the protocol for introducing new investment ideas and vehicles into the decision-making process?

Does your investment strategy change in a deliberate, forward-looking way, or it is the reactive response to headline events?

How do you define risk, determining acceptable and suitable levels for your clients?

Does your firm have “critical mass” in delivering credible research capabilities and processes?

Compliance

How does the firm ensure compliance with its clients' investment guidelines?

What processes does the firm have in place to ensure conformity of all client portfolios with their agreed upon mandates?

Reporting/Communication

What type of portfolio report does your firm generate? Is its frequency adequate?

How often do firm representatives meet with their clients?

Other than periodic portfolio reports, does the your firm provide market updates? If so, in what format?

Do your clients have online access to their accounts?

Performance

How does the firm define portfolio performance? Is it consistent and representative?

Is the firm in compliance with Association for Investment Management and Research (AIMR) standards?

What is the performance history of your firm’s investment management services for the last one, three, five, seven, and 10 years.

Fees

Are you satisfied that all fees — both inside and outside of any investment structure — are disclosed to your clients?