Hedge fund managers look for better returns from equity markets

Hedge fund managers and allocators expect this year to be kinder to the equity hedge strategy than 2010 resulting in better returns.

Last year whipsawing markets damaged many while a lack of dispersion between shares and high volatility benefited few.

Allocators are hoping for better returns from equity market managers this year compared with the modest 10.4% recorded by the HFRI Equity Hedge (Total) Index in 2010.

One multi-manager said his lasting memory of 2010 would be of seeing equity managers adjust net exposure as markets reversed, only to see direction switch again, hitting them on the rebound.

Managers divide 2010