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Hedge accounting is a method of accounting in which ownership of security and the opposing hedge are considered as one. It is a method that attempts to reduce volatility that has been created through adjustments of value of a financial instrument. This is otherwise known as “marking to market.” Reducing volatility is achieved by combining the financial instrument with the hedge as a single entry. This best practice offsets the opposing movement in the market. However, there are more recommended best practices for a successful Hedge program.

Guide for Fiduciary: This involves banks, investment professionals, consultants and plan trustees that are interested in hedge funding. They must first evaluate how suitable and attractive the investment will be for their objectives and needs. Most investors make lot of profits without hedge funding; therefore investing into it must be a necessity. Compliance with the following guidelines is mandatory:

• Allocations and Investments of Hedge fund: Having a clear and proper understanding about Hedge funding is very important. There are authorities and traditions that must be followed to ensure best practices. Moreover, there is management fee that is about 1-2% of assets and is calculated annually.

• Policies on Hedge Fund: Fiduciaries must establish policies about hedge funding to define the objectives and key features of their investments. There are some issues that must be addressed before implementing business practices.

• Owner’s Dues and Diligence: Fiduciaries must ensure compliance with regulations related to tax, accounting and legal regulations.

Guide for Investors: There are some best practices that are essential guidelines and compliance is mandatory to achieve success. “Investors” in this case refers to people responsible for implementation and execution of the Hedge fund program. They can be internal or external personnel, with their roles and responsibilities elaborately defined. The practices recommended are classified into the following categories:

• Investor’s Dues and Diligence: Managers have to ensure compliance with personnel management, accounting and reconciliations.

• Risk Management: This is a highly sensitive management issue that requires constant with best practices. There must be constringency plans in place in case unpredictable disaster occurs.

• Legal and Regulatory Policies: Investors must educate themselves about terms and conditions involved in hedge funds. Ensuring compliance with these is a crucial best practice.

• Valuation: Evaluating an investment and what returns to expect is a difficult best practice. Investors must ensure thorough valuation the investment in hedge funding. Compliance with other business practices in valuation is also important for successful hedge funding.

• Tax Expenses: Managers and investors must take account of taxes involved. These usually include business taxable income and foreign tax withholding.

• Reporting: Maintaining transparency in the investment is important best practice. It preserves a trusting relationship between the investors of hedge funding and the managers.

Hedge funding is a sensitive investment and requires precision with best practices. This outline must be followed to ensure successful investment and great profits.

Further reading: Corporate Governance | Audit | Performance Improvement