Student managed fund (SMF) at the University of Connecticut

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present a review of the student managed investment fund at the School of Business, University of Connecticut. Design/methodology/approach The authors trace the history and growth of the fund and identify the special features and dimensions that have contributed to its success. Findings The operation of the fund is a constantly evolving program and the authors discuss the important changes and improvements made in the program since its inception in the early 2000s in response to growth in the number of finance majors, new career opportunities in the field of investments and most importantly, the strength of capital markets and the development of new instruments in the capital markets. The authors also discuss the common features of over 300 student funds in the USA. The authors close with a discussion of the limitations and constraints the fund advisors at, and possibly, at other schools, face in the management and administration of the fund, and also what developments and adjustments the authors expect to see in these funds in the future. Originality/value The authors combine extensive analyses of fund history and performance. The authors also provide some suggestions for the future direction and priorities for student funds.