Renaissance Technologies
Renaissance Technologies is one of the world's largest hedge funds, with approximately $35 billion in investment capital. The firm was started by James Simons in 1982 and uses a quantitative approach - those based on computer and mathematical models used to predict price movements.
From the end of 1989 through 2006 the firm's flag ship hedge fund, the Medallion Fund, has returned 38.5% annually after fees.
Because of its great success, Renaissance charges a 5% management fee plus a 44% incentive fee. The standard industry hedge fund fee arrangement is a 2% management fee and 20% of profits above a specific benchmark.
Renaissance hires some of the smartest minds available. It is said that over half the researchers have a PhD.
Renaissance has locations in Long Island, New York, San Francisco, London and Milan.
