Making the correct choices can frequently result in big returns while making the wrong ones can have long-term financial repercussions, which is why investing can be a daunting task. It’s crucial to ensure that assets are being managed appropriately given the difficulties involved in deciding where to invest hard-earned money. Fortunately, investors may confirm their investments are in capable hands using a set of guidelines known as GIPS (Global Investment Performance Standards).

Investment businesses calculate and publish fair and transparent performance statistics using GIPS, a voluntary set of best practices. GIPS, which was created by the CFA Institute twenty years ago, gives investors criteria for how investment businesses should disclose their performance outcomes, enabling them to compare various firms when deciding where to place their money. Compliance with these guidelines, while not required, establishes a benchmark for how businesses should evaluate the performance of their investments over time.

Investors receive an accurate representation of the genuine rate of return they can anticipate from their investments, which is one of the main advantages of having an investment firm comply with GIPS. GIPS makes sure that investors have access to all the required information prior to making an investment decision by offering comprehensive information on the fees and expenditures related to a specific investment strategy or fund. Additionally, because these rules are applied to many businesses and asset classes, investors can compare portfolios with ease and decide which one, based on historical data, delivers them the best risk-adjusted returns.

It’s also crucial to remember that investors still have some protection even if an investment firm does not adhere to GIPS rules. Consumers can ask prospective advisors or funds for supporting information, such as expense ratios, to make sure they aren’t being financially exploited. Taking a few minutes out of your day now could save you thousands in the long run if you find yourself in a negative relationship with your advisor or fund manager. This may seem like extra effort to some investors who just want to invest without doing any research first.

Overall, it is advantageous for both parties when advisors and fund managers adhere to GIPS compliance standards. Investors gain additional assurance that their investments are being managed ethically and responsibly, and advisors gain recognition for their professionalism and openness among peers in the industry. Following these guiding principles should increase trust between the parties, which should result in an annual increase in assets under management as more people strive for financial security by putting their investments into reputable portfolios and funds.