The Great Manager Hunt: Key highlights from the Hedgeweek-AIMA Mid-Year Allocator Sentiment Report 2025

Published: 22 July 2025

Global allocators maintain strong appetite for hedge fund allocations despite market uncertainty


The Hedgeweek-AIMA mid-year allocator sentiment report 2025 presents findings from a comprehensive survey of over 90 institutional investors globally, examining allocation intentions, strategy preferences and investment priorities for H2 2025.
 

Key Findings

1. Robust Allocation Intentions

46% of institutional allocators plan to increase hedge fund allocations over the next 12 months, demonstrating continued confidence in alternative investment strategies

2. Shift Towards New Manager Relationships

40% of allocators are actively seeking new hedge fund partnerships, whilst only 13% focus on re-investing with existing managers, indicating evolving portfolio construction approaches

3. Geopolitical Considerations Shape Decisions

56% identify geopolitical tensions as their primary concern, yet they view market disruption as potential for alpha generation rather than risk to be avoided

4. Return Expectations Remain Positive

31% of allocators have raised return expectations compared to 12 months ago, with 51% maintaining unchanged expectations despite market volatility

5. Structured Products Gain Favour

42% of allocators express preference for separately managed accounts, citing capital efficiency, transparency, and customisation as primary drivers

Strategy Allocation Trends

Global allocators show strongest preference for long/short equity, global macro and market-neutral strategies, reflecting institutional demand for liquid, adaptable approaches that can generate alpha independently of broader market movements.

Who Responded?

The survey captured insights from family offices (31%), pension funds (21%), wealth managers (12%), and other institutional investors across Europe (38%), North America (32%), and Asia-Pacific (30%).


Access the Full Report

The complete Hedgeweek-AIMA Mid-Year Allocator Sentiment Report 2025 includes detailed analysis of:

  • Full regional breakdown of data
  • Fee dynamics and negotiations
  • Alternative investment allocation trends
  • Detailed regional breakdowns
  • Manager selection criteria


Download the full report by clicking here.