CalPERS, CalSTRS to Host Emerging, Diverse Managers Conference
Key Insights
Event: Catalyst: California’s Emerging & Diverse Investment Manager Forum.
Hosts: CalPERS and CalSTRS.
Dates: May 12-13.
Location: SAFE Credit Union Convention Center, Sacramento, California.
Goal: To bring together institutional investors and asset managers to share best practices for allocating capital to emerging and diverse investment firms.
Key Topics: Effective human capital management, leveraging AI for diversity, funding ventures for female partners, success stories from emerging/diverse managers, and insights into CalPERS/CalSTRS's own approaches and asset class views.
Why this matters: This conference provides a crucial platform for underrepresented managers to connect with major institutional investors, potentially unlocking significant capital allocation opportunities and promoting greater diversity within the asset management industry. It also offers valuable insights for investors looking to diversify their manager lineups.
In-Depth Analysis
The collaboration between CalPERS and CalSTRS, two behemoths in the pension fund world, underscores the increasing importance placed on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within institutional investing. By organizing the "Catalyst" forum, they aim to create tangible pathways for emerging managers (often newer or smaller firms) and diverse managers (firms owned or led by women or minorities) to gain access and visibility.
The agenda reflects key challenges and opportunities in this space: navigating human capital, harnessing technology like AI to mitigate bias and broaden talent pools, addressing funding gaps (particularly for female partners), and learning from those who have successfully navigated the path. Furthermore, attendees will gain direct insight into how these major pension funds evaluate and partner with emerging managers, providing invaluable intelligence for firms seeking allocations. This event serves as a practical step following initiatives like California's recent law regarding the definition of diverse and emerging managers, pushing for concrete action and relationship-building.
FAQs
Q: Who should attend this conference?
A: Institutional investors (pension funds, endowments, foundations), asset managers (particularly emerging and diverse firms), investment consultants, and other financial services professionals interested in DEI and manager selection.
Q: What is the main objective of the Catalyst forum?
A: To facilitate dialogue and share best practices regarding investment in emerging and diverse asset management firms, ultimately aiming to increase capital allocation to these groups.
Q: Will CalPERS and CalSTRS discuss their specific investment strategies?
A: Yes, the pension funds plan to discuss their approaches to emerging managers and provide their views on different asset classes.
Key Takeaways
For Emerging/Diverse Managers: This event presents a prime networking and learning opportunity to connect with major allocators and understand their criteria.
For Institutional Investors: Gain insights into best practices for identifying and allocating to diverse talent, potentially enhancing portfolio diversification and returns.
Industry Trend: The conference highlights a broader industry shift towards prioritizing DEI in investment management, driven by large, influential institutions.
Actionable Insight: Consider attending if you fall into the target audience or monitor the outcomes for trends in diverse manager allocation strategies.
Discussion
This initiative by CalPERS and CalSTRS marks a significant step in promoting diversity in asset management. What further actions do you think large institutions should take to support emerging and diverse managers? Let us know!
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Sources & References
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