February 5, 2023

Hedge Fund vs Mutual Fund: the Ultimate Differences

by Don Harder
, Updated
October 30, 2023

Investing in the financial markets can be overwhelming due to the variety of options available. Two popular investment vehicles are hedge funds and mutual funds, and this article aims to clarify the differences between them, their pros and cons, and which one is best for different types of investors.

Hedge Fund Definition

A hedge fund is a type of alternative investment that pools money from high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors. Unlike mutual funds, hedge funds are not regulated by the SEC and are only available to accredited investors. Hedge funds use various investment strategies, including leverage, short selling, and derivatives, to generate returns in any market conditions.

Mutual Fund Definition

A mutual fund is a type of investment vehicle that pools money from multiple individual investors to purchase a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other securities. Mutual funds are regulated by the SEC and accessible to all investors, regardless of net worth. The objective of mutual funds is to achieve long-term capital growth with minimal risk.

Key Differences

Regulation: The main distinction between hedge funds and mutual funds lies in their regulation. Hedge funds are not regulated by the SEC and only accessible to accredited investors, while mutual funds are regulated and open to all investors.
Investment Strategies: Hedge funds employ various investment strategies, including leverage, short selling, and derivatives, to generate returns. On the other hand, mutual funds mainly invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other securities for long-term capital growth with minimal risk.
Minimum Investment: Hedge funds have a higher minimum investment requirement compared to mutual funds. Accredited investors must invest a minimum of $1 million in a hedge fund, while mutual funds have a minimum investment of as low as $100.
Fees: Hedge funds typically charge higher fees than mutual funds. Hedge fund managers charge a 2% management fee and a 20% performance fee, while mutual funds have an average annual expense of 1.25%.
Liquidity: Hedge funds generally have less liquidity compared to mutual funds. Investors in hedge funds may have to wait for months or even years to redeem their investments, while mutual fund investments can be redeemed daily.

In conclusion, hedge funds and mutual funds are different types of investment vehicles with varying regulations, investment strategies, minimum investments, fees, and liquidity. Both have advantages and disadvantages, and the best fit for an investor depends on their investment goals, risk tolerance, and financial situation. Before investing in either, it is important to thoroughly research and seek professional advice to determine the best fit for your financial goals.