Hedge Funds

We assist hedge funds at all stages of their life cycle. We have specialists in fund structuring, trading and tax who advise start-ups in every aspect of their operation. We know the industry, understand investment strategies and help clients in a commercial and practical way.

We assist our hedge fund clients with:

  • fund structuring, formation and operation;
  • drafting and negotiating the fund's offering documents as well as all ancillary legal documents (such as articles, investment management/advisory agreements, administration/custody agreements, prime brokerage agreements, ISDA and credit support documentation, GMRA, credit and equity derivatives);
  • FCA authorisation;
  • governance issues;
  • advice on fund marketing documentation and assistance with regulatory issues;
  • employee and partner compensation arrangements and tax planning;
  • measures to address AIFMD, MiFID, EMIR and other relevant legislation;
  • co-ordination of US tax and securities aspects, including ERISA, CFTC, Dodd-Frank and SEC registration;
  • negotiation of managed accounts and managed account platforms; and
  • advising on seeding early-stage hedge fund managers and their funds.

What people are saying

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"There is a real “can do” energy, with the client being put first – no matter what the assignment is, the team are always on top of the work flow, finding intelligent but practical solutions and ensuring all deadlines are met. I cannot think of a single example where the team have not exceeded expectations and generated real value."

The UK Legal 500 2023

"The Macfarlanes hedge fund team is great to work with; they are collaborative and are solid across all investment strategies, and particularly credit. What’s more, they have the backing of solid teams in other areas (tax, derivatives etc) to support their practice. They stand out as being a very bright bunch in the market and a really nice team."

The UK Legal 500 2023

"This practice advises on a broad range of hedge funds matters and also works seamlessly with other practice groups within the firm, to provide clients with comprehensive advice across all aspects of law that is relevant to hedge funds."

The UK Legal 500 2023

"The team at Macfarlanes have an acute sensitivity to the commercial aspects of our business, especially in such a competitive environment. In looking for legal counsel, we critically needed advice that was not only legal, but also practical and suitable for our circumstances, especially as a small emerging manager."

The UK Legal 500 2022

"Solid knowledge of UK law, efficient process and high quality of work products. Very good value for money."

The UK Legal 500 2021

Awards