Hedge Funds

Hedge Funds constitute one of the most rapidly expanding areas of the financial services industry, with over eight thousand hedge funds managing over one trillion dollars in assets. Steptoe represents some of the largest hedge funds in existence.  We have represented hedge funds in SEC, NYSE, and NASD investigations and proceedings, and in litigation and arbitration of securities and common-law claims. Our team has extensive knowledge and experience in handling litigation arising from financial derivatives and swap agreements. We have also handled commercial, contract and business tort litigation arising from companies that are among the funds’ portfolio investments.

Our Tax Group and ERISA Groups, often working together on IRS and Department of Labor issues, work extensively with hedge funds.  These issues cover a broad spectrum, from the tax-based rules for qualified pension plans, to fiduciary issues, welfare benefits, and plan termination.  We often focus on fiduciary issues, including prohibited transaction exemption questions under ERISA, especially in connection with financial products.

Publications

• EU Financial Services Briefing
  September 2006