Internationale Zeitschrift für Wirtschafts- und Managementwissenschaften

REGULATION OF Alternative Investment Vehicles

Abstract

Dennis Wellmann

Alternative Investment Vehicles have become increasingly common and highly controversial elements of today?s financial markets. They have faced calls for stricter regulation in recent years since they remain less regulated than traditional financial institutions and are rarely required to publish financial information. This article re-views the main characteristics and effects of Alternative Investment Vehicles as a basis to drive suitable regula-tory measures. From a regulatory perspective it is especially important to consider their function as financial intermediaries. In this role, they may impact the efficiency and stability of financial markets or the companies they invest in. While this leads to several positive effects, these come with certain risks which have to be ad-dressed with effective regulation tailored to their specific characteristics.