This document summarizes research on understanding hedge fund performance. Some key findings include:
1) There is no universal hedge fund index that adequately represents the diverse strategies. Existing indices differ significantly.
2) Estimating alpha is sensitive to the model used, and using a multi-factor model or peer index may be better than absolute or market-based benchmarks.
3) Disaggregating funds into sub-indices provides different insights than analyzing the whole universe, such as the impact of various factors.
4) Both macroeconomic factors and fund-specific micro factors influence performance. Rules of thumb are provided for investors to consider various factors that impact hedge fund returns.