Wealth managers consider several factors when selecting private debt managers. Here are some of the key factors:
- Manager’s track record: Wealth managers evaluate the manager’s track record of success in managing private debt investments. A competent manager becomes critical once a decision is reached to employ alternative credit strategies 1 . The manager’s experience and expertise in managing private debt investments can help to mitigate the risk of default.
- Investment strategy: Wealth managers evaluate the private debt strategy of the manager to ensure it aligns with their investment objectives and existing holdings. Private debt is a broad and versatile asset class, offering a variety of approaches, so it’s important to choose a private debt strategy that aligns with your investment objectives and existing holdings 2 .
- Risk management: Wealth managers evaluate the manager’s approach to risk management. Private debt includes subcategories as diverse as investment-grade private placements, real estate debt, and venture capital loans 3 . Wealth managers should choose a private debt strategy that aligns with their risk tolerance.
- Diversification: Wealth managers evaluate the diversification of the manager’s private debt portfolio to minimize risk. Private debt funds of funds invest in a variety of third-party debt funds depending on the fund strategy, providing greater portfolio diversification 1 .
- Credit analysis: Wealth managers evaluate the manager’s credit analysis process to ensure it is rigorous and thorough. This includes analyzing the borrower’s financial statements, credit history, and other relevant financial data 3 .
- Collateral: Wealth managers evaluate the manager’s approach to collateral that secures the private debt investment. This can help to mitigate the risk of default 3 .
- Industry expertise: Wealth managers evaluate the manager’s industry expertise to assess their ability to identify and evaluate investment opportunities in specific industries 1 .
Overall, wealth managers consider the manager’s track record, investment strategy, risk management, diversification, credit analysis, collateral, and industry expertise when selecting private debt managers. By evaluating these factors, wealth managers can make informed decisions about private debt investments that align with their investment objectives and risk tolerance.