Research Publications Archive

The Lowdown on Low Vol

While the theory behind low-volatility equity strategies is sound, funds seeking to provide equity-like returns with lowered volatility are neither new nor unique. Further, investors should tread cautiously given the mushrooming number of entrants in the field and the diversity of approaches.

Master Limited Partnerships

This report provides an in-depth overview of energy master limited partnerships. This evolving asset class has a number of unique features, including market niche and favorable tax treatment for taxable investors. We review the development of the asset class, investment characteristics from the perspective of both taxable and nonprofit investors, current valuations, and industry growth.

Can U.S. Corporate Profit Margins Continue to Defy Gravity?

Equity investors are right to be focused on corporate earnings, given that a lackluster recovery and slowing global growth may weigh on sales. However, profit margins may be of lesser concern, due to index mechanics and the limited correlation between margins and returns. S&P 500 companies have enjoyed a stunning rebound in profits since the…

European Update: Kicking an Ever Bigger Can

While recent efforts by European authorities to expand rescue packages for peripheral countries are a step in the right direction, market volatility is likely to remain elevated until more comprehensive solutions are put on the table.

MENA Equities – Is There an Opportunity?

MENA markets do not offer compelling value today, but may prove attractive from a long-term growth and development perspective for investors that can withstand the volatility inherent to the region.

Investing in Infrastructure

The options within public and private infrastructure investing have widened substantially over the last decade. This report provides an overview of infrastructure—including the characteristics of the asset class, the risks of investing, historical performance, current trends, and implementation considerations—and summarizes the attractions of and considerations for an investment in various infrastructure segments.