History & Mission

The HFG Mandate

Established as the premier destination for alternative investment research at the University of Washington, the Hedge Fund Group (HFG) operates as a bridge between quantitative academic theory and institutional buy-side execution. Our mission is to provide an authentic investment experience through the practical application of idiosyncratic research, sector-specific valuation, and active portfolio management. While we are a student-led organization, we operate with the technical rigor and professionalism of a boutique investment firm.

Training & Development

Our analysts begin their tenure with an intensive technical curriculum designed to build a foundational understanding of the hedge fund landscape from first principles. Following initial training, members are deployed into specialized research units where they contribute to our internal market intelligence and compete in high-conviction thesis defenses. We operate under the assumption that the best investment ideas are born from technical excellence and a collaborative, meritocratic environment.

Our immersive curriculum builds market knowledge from first principles. Through weekly case breakdowns, sector pods, and portfolio simulations, members gain the toolkit to analyze inefficiencies and articulate actionable investment theses.

Organization

Analysts are placed into one of our specialized sector pods, including TMT (Technology, Media, & Telecommunications), Energy & Industrials, and Global Macro. Every week, these pods collaborate to source, research, and model idiosyncratic investment ideas within their coverage areas. This decentralized model mirrors the multi-manager structure of top-tier global hedge funds, allowing for deep-sector expertise and diverse alpha generation.

Process

Admission to HFG is highly selective. We look for analysts who exhibit both intellectual curiosity and strong quantitative intuition, regardless of their academic major. Analysts who are selected undergo a rigorous onboarding process that includes stock-pitching fundamentals, advanced financial modeling, and exposure to current market-moving trends. Upon completion, members are invited to join our research pods and participate in our flagship portfolio simulations.

Meet The Officials

We are pleased to introduce to you our 2026 executive board members. This executive team is comprised of ten members that provide different roles both internal and external to the functioning of the group. The mix of international and academic diversity allows them to collaborate and solve challenges using multiple perspectives, ensuring they are well-equipped to drive success both for the group and its members.