CAIA Association has developed two examinations that are used to certify Chartered Alternative Investment Analysts. The Level I curriculum builds a foundation in both traditional and alternative investment markets--for example, the range of statistics that are used to define investment performance as well as the many types of hedge fund strategies. The readings for the Level II exam focus on the same strategies, but change the context to one of risk management and portfolio optimization. Level II CAIA exam takers have to work through the following agenda: asset allocation & portfolio oversight - style analysis - risk management - alternative asset securitization - secondary market creation - performance and style attribution  - indexation and benchmarking Success in the rapidly evolving area of alternative investments (AI) depends on a firm understanding of the concepts, tools, and practices associated with it, as well as an unwavering dedication to professionalism. Today, there is a program in place that addresses these essential needs. Sponsored by the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) Association®, the CAIA Charter is the only educational standard uniquely designed for individuals specializing in institutional quality alternative investments. Covering hedge funds, managed futures, real assets, private equity, commodities, structured products, risk management and portfolio management, and professional standards and ethics, the CAIA Charter demonstrates one's commitment to professionalism and command of AI's unique fundamentals, setting you and your firm apart from the competition. The CAIA program is comprised of a two-tier exam process (Level I and Level II) through which you may earn the CAIA Charter. The Level I exam assesses your understanding of various alternative classes and your knowledge of the tools and techniques used to evaluate the risk-return attributes of each one. The Level II exam assesses how you would apply the knowledge and analytics learned in Level I within a portfolio management context. Both levels incorporate segments on ethics and professional conduct, which are essential components of the CAIA program. Written under the direction of the CAIA Association, with insights from many practicing and eminent professionals in this field, CAIA Level II: Advanced Core Topics in Alternative Investments, Second Edition contains virtually all the material on alternative investments a potential Level II candidate would need to know as they prepare for the exam—a multifaceted assembly of questions and problem-solving tasks. Since the tools and terms introduced in Level I provide the basis for the second level of this program, the information found here will continue to focus on the issues associated with the alternative investment arena, but in greater depth and in the context of risk management and asset allocation. This comprehensive resource: Discusses advanced topics in alternative investments— from real assets to trend-following strategies and fund management techniques - Focuses on the analysis and application of essential strategies involved in each alternative asset class - Addresses the unique attributes associated with the alternative investment space - Is supplemented by a study guide outlining learning objectives and key words, available at www.caia.org/caia-program/curriculum Since its inception in 2002, the CAIA program's diverse curriculum has benefited a wide array of individuals, from institutional investors, investment advisers, AI fund managers, and administrators to accountants, lawyers, and academics. So if you're serious about receiving the CAIA Charter, take the time to understand the insights offered here. Take your first steps toward attaining the CAIA Charter by picking up CAIA Level I: An Introduction to Core Topics in Alternative Investments, Second Edition. "The CAIA certification program is the preeminent course of study for the alternative investment industry. The CAIA Level II book provides additional reference material to extend the knowledge of any investor interested in alternative investments as well as providing a solid foundation to achieve the CAIA certification. It is a critical source book on alternatives that the reader can use as an everyday reference guide." —Mark Anson, PhD , CAIA, Managing Partner, Oak Hill Investment Management, LP Sponsored by the CAIA Association®, the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) program consists of a two-tier exam process (Level I and Level II) through which you may earn the CAIA Charter. The Level I exam challenges your understanding of the alternative investment market's tools and terms, and tests your knowledge of various trading strategies and performance measurements. The Level II exam assesses how you would apply the knowledge and analytics learned in Level I within an asset allocation framework. CAIA Level II: Advanced Core Topics in Alternative Investments, Second Edition contain