The recent HFR Global Hedge Fund Industry Report reveals industry facts that appear to swim upstream from the story about redemptions hitting new highs. Not only did assets under management surge, but the most significant performance over the year was turned in by nimble hedge funds with assets under management ranging from $50 million to $250 million. This isn't where institutional investors put the lion's share of their assets, however.
Also see 2016 Hedge Fund Letters
HFR - While headlines point to outflows, the reality is hedge fund assets hit new highs
If the mainstream howl against hedge funds could be encapsulated in a few sentences, it might be that hedge funds deliver sub-par performance and charge high fees and expenses....

