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AQR Capital Management, LLC
Part 2A of Form ADV: Firm Brochure
One Greenwich Plaza
Greenwich, CT 06830
Tel: (203) 742-3600
Fax: (203) 742-3100
Website: www.aqr.com
March 28, 2025
This brochure (“Brochure”) provides information about the qualifications and business practices of AQR Capital
Management, LLC (“AQR” or the “Adviser”), an investment adviser registered with the United States Securities and
Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). If you have any questions about the contents of this Brochure, please contact
us at 203-742-3600 or info@aqr.com. The information in this Brochure has not been approved or verified by the
SEC or by any state securities authority.
Additional information about AQR is also available on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Registration with the SEC or with any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training.
PURSUANT TO AN EXEMPTION FROM THE COMMODITY FUTURES TRADING COMMISSION (“CFTC”) IN
CONNECTION WITH ACCOUNTS OF QUALIFIED ELIGIBLE PERSONS, THIS BROCHURE OR ACCOUNT
DOCUMENT IS NOT REQUIRED TO BE, AND HAS NOT BEEN, FILED WITH THE CFTC. THE CFTC DOES
NOT PASS UPON THE MERITS OF PARTICIPATING IN A TRADING PROGRAM OR UPON THE ADEQUACY
OR ACCURACY OF COMMODITY TRADING ADVISOR DISCLOSURE. CONSEQUENTLY, THE CFTC HAS NOT
REVIEWED OR APPROVED THIS TRADING PROGRAM OR THIS BROCHURE OR ACCOUNT DOCUMENT.
AQR Capital Management LLC | Part 2A of Form ADV: Firm Brochure
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Item 2 – Material Changes
There have been no material changes to this Brochure since its most recent update on March 28, 2024. The Adviser
routinely makes updates throughout this Brochure to update its assets under management and to enhance and
clarify the description of its business practices, risks, compliance policies and procedures, as well as to respond to
evolving industry best practices.
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Item 3 – Table of Contents
Item 2 – Material Changes ........................................................................................................................................ 2
Item 3 – Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................................ 3
Item 4 – Advisory Business ....................................................................................................................................... 4
Item 5 – Fees and Compensation ............................................................................................................................. 6
Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management ....................................................................... 10
Item 7 – Types of Clients ......................................................................................................................................... 12
Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies, and Risk of Loss ................................................................. 13
Item 9 – Disciplinary Information ............................................................................................................................. 29
Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations .................................................................................. 30
Item 11 – Code of Ethics, Participation or Interests in Client Transactions and Personal Trading ......................... 32
Item 12 – Brokerage Practices ................................................................................................................................ 35
Item 13 – Review of Accounts ................................................................................................................................. 41
Item 14 – Client Referrals and Other Compensation .............................................................................................. 42
Item 15 – Custody .................................................................................................................................................... 44
Item 16 – Investment Discretion .............................................................................................................................. 45
Item 17 – Voting Client Securities ........................................................................................................................... 46
Item 18 – Financial Information ............................................................................................................................... 47
Additional Information – Notice to Canadian Clients ............................................................................................... 48
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Item 4 – Advisory Business
Overview
AQR is a global investment management firm, founded in 1998, that takes a systematic research-driven approach
to managing alternative and traditional strategies. The Adviser commenced operations as an investment adviser
in January 1998 and has been registered with the SEC since May 13, 1998.
AQR is wholly owned by AQR Capital Management Holdings, LLC (“AQR Holdings”). AQR Holdings’ majority owner
is AQR Capital Management Group, L.P. (“AQR Group”). AQR Holdings’ minority owner is Affiliated Managers
Group, Inc. (“AMG”)1, a publicly traded holding company. The general partner of AQR Group is AQR Capital
Management Group GP, LLC. Clifford S. Asness is the principal owner of AQR through such intermediate entities.
Clifford S. Asness, David G. Kabiller and John M. Liew are founding principals of AQR.
Advisory Services
AQR specializes in quantitative investment analysis, which relies on proprietary models, utilizing a set of value,
momentum, and other factors, to generate views on investments and applying them in a disciplined and systematic
process. AQR provides investment advice to its Clients (as defined below) on a variety of securities and instruments
in accordance with agreed upon investment objectives and strategies.2 AQR implements its investment strategies
through the following investment vehicles and portfolios.
Mutual Funds. AQR provides advisory services to investment companies registered under the Investment
Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Company Act”)—commonly known as mutual funds (each a “Mutual
Fund” and collectively, along with their wholly-owned and controlled foreign corporation subsidiaries, “Mutual
Funds”)—sponsored by AQR (the “AQR Mutual Funds”), and Mutual Funds sponsored by advisers unaffiliated
with AQR (“Sub-Advised Mutual Funds”). AQR is the adviser to the AQR Funds, which is an open-end
registered investment company, organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 4, 2008 and is
comprised of multiple active series (each a “Series Fund” which, together with their wholly-owned and controlled
foreign corporation subsidiaries, comprise the AQR Mutual Funds).
UCITS. AQR provides advisory or sub-advisory services to certain European collective investment schemes
pursuant to the Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities—commonly known as UCITS
funds—sponsored by AQR (the AQR UCITS Funds and AQR UCITS Funds II, collectively, “AQR UCITS”), and
UCITS funds sponsored by management companies unaffiliated with AQR (“Sub-Advised UCITS”).
Sponsored Funds and Managed Accounts. AQR provides advisory services to United States, Cayman Islands,
and Luxembourg-domiciled privately placed investment vehicles (“Private Funds”), collective investment trusts
(“CITs”), and Australian investment vehicles (“Australian Funds”, and collectively with CITs and Private Funds,
“Sponsored Funds”), as well as to separately managed accounts for institutional investors (together with Sub-
Advised Mutual Funds and Sub-Advised UCITS, “Institutional Managed Accounts”). AQR also provides
advisory services to independent registered investment advisors, family offices, high net worth individuals and
other individual investor clients (“Independent / RIA Accounts”).
AQR Mutual Funds, AQR UCITS, Sponsored Funds, Institutional Managed Accounts, and Independent / RIA
Accounts shall be collectively referred to herein as “Clients”.3
1 AMG holds other equity and financial interests in certain other investment advisers unaffiliated with AQR. AMG does not have a controlling
interest in AQR Holdings or a role with respect to the day-to-day business of AQR and as such is not a control person. Please see Item 14 –
Client Referrals and Other Compensation for more information on AMG.
2 AQR has an ownership interest in AQR Arbitrage, LLC (“AQR Arbitrage”), a Delaware limited liability company and SEC-registered investment
adviser (SEC Number 801-60678). AQR Arbitrage provides discretionary investment management services, specializing in global merger
arbitrage, global convertible arbitrage and other event driven strategies. AQR Arbitrage serves as sub-adviser to certain AQR Clients. AQR
Arbitrage receives a portion of the fees paid to AQR when acting as a sub-adviser. At times, AQR markets interests of Private Funds sponsored
by AQR Arbitrage. In addition, in certain circumstances, AQR directs Clients to invest in AQR Arbitrage advised vehicles. For additional
information regarding AQR Arbitrage, please see Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations below.
3 AQR or persons affiliated with AQR, from time to time and as permitted by applicable law, create seed or incubator funds (“Seed Funds”) in
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AQR provides advice to Clients based on specific investment objectives and strategies. Under certain
circumstances, AQR tailors advisory services to the individual needs or requirements of a Client. For example,
certain investors impose restrictions on their managed accounts, such as prohibiting certain securities or certain
types of securities, or controlling sector and industry concentrations in their portfolios or directing AQR to trade in a
particular manner or within a certain timeframe. Likewise, other Clients may request certain customization to
address specific tax or investment needs.
AQR also provides non-discretionary model portfolio recommendations to unaffiliated model portfolio platforms or
sponsors (“Model Platforms”). Such model portfolio recommendations employ the same or similar strategies utilized
for AQR’s discretionary Clients and include baskets or portfolios of individual securities (Unified Managed Accounts
(“UMA”)). In addition, AQR may also participate in Model Platforms in which AQR provides one or more model
portfolios that allocate exclusively to a number of Series Funds (Fund Strategist Program (“FSP”)). AQR is not
responsible for determining the suitability of AQR’s strategy for the underlying clients of the Model Platforms and
AQR does not determine the timing or manner of execution with respect to any of the securities or investments
related to a model portfolio. Clients receiving model portfolio recommendations, their overlay managers, Model
Platforms or others retain investment discretion to utilize the model portfolio recommendations, and may deviate
from AQR’s recommendations.
Assets Under Management
As of December 31, 2024, AQR had approximately $114,260,400,000 in Client net assets under management4
(“AUM”), all of which were managed on a discretionary basis.
order to develop one or more performance track records in new investment products and/or strategies before offering them to outside investors.
In certain circumstances, a Seed Fund may not be made available to outside investors. Similarly, AQR or persons affiliated with AQR, from
time to time and as permitted by applicable law, create proprietary reference funds (“Reference Funds”) to implement certain model portfolio
strategies or other products. For the avoidance of doubt, the term Clients includes Seed Funds and Reference Funds. In addition, AQR also
advises certain other Clients whose assets include or are comprised solely of those of persons affiliated with AQR.
4 Includes assets sub-advised by AQR Arbitrage.
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Item 5 – Fees and Compensation
AQR is compensated through various fee structures, including asset-based fees and performance-based fees.5
Asset-based fees are typically annual fixed fees based on AUM. A performance fee is based upon a percentage
of the net profits of the account being managed. Typically, when calculating net profits, performance fees are based
on absolute or benchmark-relative returns over an agreed upon time period, and are subject to high water marks
or loss carryforwards. As more fully described below, AQR either bills or deducts fees in advance or in arrears,
according to the terms of the pertinent investment management agreement or other governing documentation.
Under certain circumstances, fees are negotiable.
AQR Mutual Funds
Advisory fees for the AQR Mutual Funds range up to 1.45% of AUM (generally including, but not limited to, cash
balances and cash invested in money market funds, closed end funds, and ETFs). Additional operating expenses
apply. With respect to a Series Fund that allocates to other Series Funds, AQR receives compensation for
managing the Series Fund indirectly through advisory fees received from the underlying Series Funds. If AQR
selects underlying Series Funds with higher advisory fees, then AQR will receive more compensation. Detailed
information concerning the AQR Mutual Funds is contained in each Series Fund’s prospectus, which can be
downloaded from https://funds.aqr.com. Each Series Fund is distributed by ALPS Distributors, Inc.
AQR UCITS
Advisory fees for the AQR UCITS range up to 1.80% of AUM (generally including, but not limited to, cash balances
and cash invested in money market funds, closed end funds, and ETFs). Additional operating expenses apply.
Certain AQR UCITS also include a performance fee of up to 20% of net profits. AQR and its affiliates reserve the
right to enter into written agreements with investors (“Side Letters”) in AQR UCITS sub-funds to waive or modify
the standard fee terms of such sub-fund in respect to a particular investor. More information about the AQR UCITS
can be found at https://ucits.aqr.com/.
Sponsored Funds
The basic fee schedule for Sponsored Funds includes an annual fixed fee (or, in certain cases, a tiered fee
schedule) of up to 2.90% of AUM (generally including, but not limited to, cash balances and cash invested in money
market funds, closed end funds, and ETFs), typically payable either monthly or quarterly in advance. Certain fee
schedules also include a performance fee of up to 36% of net profits.6 Additional operating expenses apply.
Investors in certain Sponsored Funds may be subject to initial “lock-up” periods or gates with respect to
withdrawals/redemptions and incur withdrawal/redemption fees, in accordance with the provisions of the applicable
fund documentation.
AQR and its affiliates enter into Side Letters with investors in Sponsored Funds (“Subscribers”) to waive or modify
the standard terms of such Sponsored Fund in respect of a particular Subscriber. Certain Subscribers are not
charged any management fees, are not charged any performance fees, are charged fees in arrears rather than in
advance or have a differing fee structure because of their overall relationship with AQR or its affiliates or their
investment approach. In particular, certain Subscribers in a Private Fund that are employees (including certain
former employees), business associates and other “friends and family” of AQR, its affiliates or their personnel will
typically not pay management fees or performance fees in connection with their investment in a Private Fund or
may pay a reduced rate. Consequently, fees charged to certain Subscribers may deviate from the standard fees
disclosed in a Sponsored Fund’s offering documents.
For its Sponsored Funds, AQR has the absolute discretion, subject to its fiduciary duty, to agree with Subscribers,
particularly with respect to those Subscribers who are large or strategic investors, to waive or modify the application
of any provision of a Sponsored Fund agreement (including, but not limited to, those relating to liquidity, investment
capacity, fees, and transparency). Moreover, with respect to such Subscribers, AQR remains subject to its fiduciary
obligations, its duties under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (“Advisers Act”) and any terms negotiated through
5 Throughout this Brochure, the term “performance fee” means performance fee or performance allocation, as applicable.
6 For the avoidance of doubt, no Client is charged a combination of the highest advisory and performance fees set forth herein.
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Side Letters. In some instances, Side Letters grant such Subscribers materially favorable terms relating to, among
other things, liquidity, investment capacity, economic rights, fees, expenses, information and reporting rights, co-
investment rights, certain rights or terms necessary in light of particular legal, regulatory or policy requirements of
a particular investor, veto rights, transfer rights and transparency. In addition, AQR reserves the right to waive or
rebate all or a portion of its management fees and/or performance fees with respect to a Subscriber. Prospective
Subscribers and existing Subscribers should consider these possible conflicts of interest in making their decision
to invest or remain invested in a Sponsored Fund, as certain Side Letters can result in favoring some Subscribers
over others and affect a Subscriber’s expectations as to future return and risk.
AQR has agreed to provide certain Subscribers enhanced disclosure with respect to specific security positions, risk
information and/or portfolio characteristics of Sponsored Funds. Accordingly, not all Subscribers will have the same
degree of access to the type and/or frequency of individual position listings in connection with Sponsored Funds in
which they invest.
Institutional Managed Accounts
Generally, advisory fees for Institutional Managed Accounts are separately negotiated with each institutional client
and are based upon a percentage of AUM and vary depending upon the nature of the portfolio to be managed and
the strategy employed (e.g., international equity, multi-strategy). Fees are based upon the fee methodology agreed
to with each Institutional Managed Account. Institutional Managed Account advisory fees generally range up to
1.60% of AUM (generally including, but not limited to, cash balances and cash invested in money market funds,
closed end funds, and ETFs), payable after the end of either the month or the quarter. AQR and Institutional
Managed Accounts have, in certain circumstances, agreed to performance fees of up to 30% of net profits, subject
to certain hurdles, in addition to or in lieu of a fixed advisory fee. In some instances, additional operating expenses
apply.
Independent / RIA Accounts
Independent / RIA Account advisory fees payable to AQR are negotiated and generally based upon a percentage
of AUM and vary depending upon the nature of the portfolio to be managed and the strategy employed. The
applicable fee rate(s) typically depends upon certain factors, including but not limited to the strategy employed for
the Independent / RIA Account, the overall amount of assets in Independent / RIA Accounts related to the same
household, the overall amount of assets in Independent / RIA Accounts for a given RIA or family office, and/or the
overall amount of assets for a given RIA or family office advised by AQR. Advisory fees payable to AQR for
Independent / RIA Accounts generally range up to 2.50% of AUM (generally including, but not limited to, cash
balances and cash invested in money market funds, closed end funds, and ETFs), payable after the end of the
quarter. In some instances, additional operating expenses apply. Performance fees are not charged in connection
with Independent / RIA Accounts.
Model Portfolio Recommendations
AQR receives fees for providing non-discretionary model portfolio recommendations to UMA Model Platforms. The
fees are negotiated and vary in amount, as well as the frequency and timing of the payment. Additionally, for
providing non-discretionary FSP model portfolio recommendations AQR would receive management fees from the
underlying Series Funds. If AQR selects underlying Series Funds with higher management fees, then AQR will
receive more compensation.
Additional Information
The investment terms offered to different Clients pursuing similar investment objectives in many cases differ, as do
the investment terms offered to Subscribers in investment vehicles pursuing the same or similar investment
objectives. For example, certain Institutional Managed Accounts have information sharing terms that are more
extensive and/or timely than other Clients. As another example, certain Institutional Managed Accounts have
different liquidity terms than other Subscribers pursuing the same or similar investment objectives in a Sponsored
Fund. Similarly, certain Subscribers of Sponsored Funds managed as dedicated funds have information sharing
terms that are more extensive and timely than other Subscribers in other funds. Additionally, certain such
Subscribers are not subject to the same liquidity terms that apply to other funds. Prospective Subscribers and
existing Subscribers should consider these possible conflicts of interest in making their decision to invest or remain
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invested in a Sponsored Fund, as certain Side Letters can result in favoring some Subscribers over others and
affect a Subscriber’s expectations as to future return and risk.
Advisory fees are negotiable for Clients or investors in certain circumstances and AQR from time to time enters into
individual agreements with particular Clients or investors with respect to, among other things, the amount, the
method of payment and timing of charging any management fee or performance fee. Generally, AQR deducts the
management fee and/or performance fee from Private Funds, Series Funds, and sub-funds of the AQR UCITS by
instructing such fund’s administrator and/or custodian. Institutional Managed Accounts, Independent / RIA
Accounts, CITs, Australian Funds, and UMA Model Platforms are either invoiced for advisory fees or they self-remit
payment for those fees.
As noted above, fee arrangements may provide for the payment of monthly or quarterly advisory fees in advance
or arrears. If termination of an advisory contract by the Client occurs during a month or quarter in which a fee is
charged in advance, generally, such circumstances will result in the refund of a pro rata portion of the fee to the
investor or Client for the remaining portion of the monthly or quarterly period, as the case may be.
AQR’s fees are in addition to brokerage commissions, transaction fees, service provider fees, platform fees,
distribution fees, as applicable, and other related costs and expenses which will be incurred by Clients. In the case
of the Independent / RIA Accounts, for transactions that are executed through broker-dealers other than the
custodian or its affiliated broker-dealer, the RIA’s or family office’s client will bear the brokerage costs. Typically,
the RIA or family office, as applicable, and not AQR, is responsible for directing where transactions will be executed.
Execution of Client transactions typically requires payment of brokerage commissions by Clients except for certain
Independent / RIA Accounts. Please see Item 12 – Brokerage Practices below for a description of the factors that
AQR considers in selecting counterparties for the execution of transactions and determining the reasonableness of
their compensation, which are applicable for all Clients, except for Clients that have entered into directed brokerage
agreements and certain Independent / RIA Accounts. Investment activity also involves other transaction fees and
taxes payable by Clients, including but not limited to, sales charges, odd-lot differentials, transfer taxes, financial
transaction taxes, wire transfer and electronic fund fees, overdraft fees and other fees and taxes on brokerage
accounts and securities transactions. In addition, Clients incur certain charges imposed by custodians, prime
brokers, counterparties, banks, governmental authorities, third-party investment consultants or investment advisers,
investment platform providers, attorneys and other third parties, such as custodial fees, consulting fees,
administrative fees, auditing fees, legal and compliance fees, insurance fees, and transfer agency fees. Certain
Clients also pay certain fees and/or expenses relating to governmental, regulatory, licensing, filing, or registration
filings and their preparation, incurred in compliance with the applicable rules of any self-regulatory organization or
any foreign, U.S. federal, state or local laws; to the extent permitted by applicable law, and subject to applicable
client documentation, legal fees and costs arising in connection with litigation or a regulatory investigation; and
extraordinary expenses or costs that the Client from time to time incurs.7 Certain Clients incur additional expenses
related to obtaining or maintaining systems, data and/or other information utilized for portfolio management, portfolio
implementation, research, analysis, valuation, accounting, risk management, compliance and/or regulatory
purposes, and other data costs directly related to the research, development, implementation and/or management
of the Client’s investment strategy or operation of a Client’s account. Further details of these and other expenses
are described in the Clients’ offering documents, account agreements, and on-boarding documents.
Certain AQR employees are registered representatives of AQR Investments, LLC (“AQR Investments”), AQR’s
affiliated limited-purpose broker-dealer. As registered representatives, such AQR employees will engage in the
marketing of shares of the Series Funds and/or interests of certain Private Funds or CITs, and will receive
compensation for providing such services. While AQR believes compensation paid to AQR Investments and its
employees is reasonable for the relevant activities, such compensation may not in each case be negotiated at arm’s
length and from time to time may be in excess of fees, commissions or other compensation that may be charged
by an unaffiliated third party. Please see Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations below for a
more detailed discussion of these AQR employees’ role as registered representatives of AQR Investments.
7 Some Clients hold memberships at their individual expense to exchanges operated by the CME Group. The terms of the CME membership
include reduced transaction costs on derivative trades executed on the exchanges. As a result, Clients that are CME members pay reduced
transaction costs and do not share transaction costs for aggregated orders on a pro rata basis with Clients that do not hold such memberships.
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Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side-by-Side Management
Performance-Based Fees
As noted above, a performance fee represents an asset manager’s compensation for managing a client account
which is based upon a percentage of the net profits of the account being managed. Typically, when calculating net
profits, performance fees are based on either absolute or benchmark-relative returns over an agreed upon time
period, with performance fees subject to high water marks or loss carryforwards. In some instances, a performance
fee represents all or a portion of AQR’s standard fee arrangement. In other instances, AQR is compensated solely
through an asset-based fee (i.e., AQR is paid a percentage of the amount of assets in the account). AQR reserves
the right to negotiate the rate of any applicable performance fees or asset-based fees on a case-by-case basis.
With respect to AQR’s management of Client assets, performance fees give rise to certain conflicts of interest.
Specifically, AQR’s entitlement to performance fees in managing one or more accounts creates an incentive to take
risks in managing those accounts that in certain circumstances AQR would not otherwise take in the absence of
such fee arrangements. Additionally, since performance fees reward for performance in accounts which are subject
to such fees, AQR has an incentive to favor these accounts over those that have only asset-based fees with respect
to trading opportunities, trade allocation, and allocation of new investment opportunities. Generally, AQR addresses
these conflicts by utilizing an investment allocation policy designed to treat all Clients fairly and equitably over time.
Please see below and Item 12 – Brokerage Practices for more information.
Side-by-Side Management
Side-by-side management of various types of accounts raises the possibility of favorable or preferential treatment
of a Client account or a group of accounts arising from differences in fee arrangements, including favoring Clients
with higher fee schedules over those with lower fee schedules. AQR has procedures designed and implemented
in furtherance of its efforts to treat all Clients fairly and equitably over time. By utilizing these procedures, AQR
believes that Clients that are subject to side-by-side management alongside other accounts are receiving fair and
equitable treatment over time.
AQR simultaneously manages multiple types of investment vehicles and accounts, including the AQR Mutual
Funds, AQR UCITS, Sponsored Funds, Institutional Managed Accounts, and Independent / RIA Accounts, in many
instances according to the same or a similar investment strategy (i.e., side-by-side management). The
simultaneous management of these different investment vehicles gives rise to the types of conflicts described
above, for example, the fees for the management of certain types of investment vehicles may be higher than for
others or the liquidity terms may differ. Nevertheless, when managing the assets of such investment vehicles, AQR
has a duty to treat all Clients fairly and equitably over time.
Although AQR has a duty to treat all Clients fairly and equitably over time, each Client will not necessarily be
managed the same at all times. Specifically, there is no requirement that AQR use the same investment practices
consistently or at the same time across all Clients. In general, investment decisions for each Client will be made
independently from those of other Clients, and will be made based on the individual needs and objectives of each
Client. In addition, different account guidelines, applicable laws and regulations, and/or differences within particular
investment strategies leads, in some cases, to the use of different investment practices for accounts with a similar
investment strategy or investing in the same securities. Portfolio managers know the size, timing and possible
market impact of Client trades. A conflict of interest exists where portfolio managers could use this information to
the advantage of certain accounts they manage and to the possible detriment of other accounts. AQR will not
necessarily purchase or sell the same securities at the same time, in the same direction, or in the same
proportionate amounts for all eligible accounts, particularly if different accounts have different amounts of investable
cash available, different existing exposures, different liquidity requirements, different strategies, or different risk
tolerances. In addition, some accounts purchase long positions in certain securities while other accounts
simultaneously sell short or sell to reduce exposure to those same, similar or related securities. Timing and location
of execution for the Independent / RIA Accounts will differ from that for other Clients because the Independent / RIA
Accounts are generally expected to utilize the custodian’s affiliated broker-dealer. In certain circumstances, AQR
will adjust its trading and/or allocation process in order to efficiently and effectively launch or implement new
strategies, or to account for flows. As a result of all of these differences, although AQR manages numerous
accounts with similar or identical investment objectives, or may manage accounts with different objectives or
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strategies that trade in the same, similar or related securities, the portfolio decisions relating to these accounts, and
the performance resulting from such decisions, may differ from account to account and, accordingly, Client to Client.
Changes to, or modifications in, the investment strategies employed by the Adviser may be implemented
incrementally, rather than simultaneously, across Clients pursuing similar or identical investment objectives. In
certain circumstances, investment opportunities that are in limited supply and/or have limited return potential in light
of administrative costs of pursuing such investments (e.g., IPOs, as defined below) are only allocated to Clients
where the given opportunity is more closely aligned with the applicable strategy and/or trading approach.
Side-by-side management also affects instances where AQR provides model portfolio recommendations to Model
Platforms. The timing of updates to model portfolios will not necessarily occur at the same time. In these
circumstances, AQR’s Reference Funds will typically commence trading before other recipients of model portfolio
recommendations have received or had the opportunity to evaluate or act on AQR’s recommendations. As such,
model portfolio trades ultimately placed by such Model Platforms or others, for themselves, their clients, or for others
may be subject to price movements, particularly with large orders or where the securities are thinly traded, that may
result in those parties receiving prices that are less favorable than the prices obtained by AQR for its other Clients.
Because AQR does not control the execution of transactions related to a model portfolio, AQR cannot attempt to
control the market impact of such transactions to the same extent that it would for its discretionary Clients.
Please see Item 12 – Brokerage Practices below for a more detailed discussion of AQR’s trade allocation and
aggregation policy and procedures.
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Item 7 – Types of Clients
AQR provides investment management services to institutional clients including, but not limited to, investment
companies, pooled investment vehicles, pension and profit sharing plans, charitable organizations, state or
municipal government entities, other investment advisers, insurance companies, sovereign wealth funds and
foreign official institutions, corporations or other business entities. AQR also provides investment management
services to independent registered investment advisors, family offices, high net worth individuals and other
individual investor clients. Additionally, AQR provides investment management services to Sponsored Funds, AQR
Mutual Funds and AQR UCITS, whose participants may include, but are not limited to, institutional investors as
described above, as well as individuals and other investors.
AQR’s investment minimums may vary according to investment strategy and vehicle (i.e., Institutional Managed
Account versus investment in a Sponsored Fund), and AQR maintains the ability to waive such minimums at its
discretion. Generally, AQR’s Institutional Managed Account minimums range from $50 million to $100 million
depending on the investment strategy. Independent / RIA Account minimums are typically $1 million. The standard
minimum investment required to invest in a Sponsored Fund is described in each Sponsored Fund’s offering
memorandum. The minimum investment required to invest in a Series Fund of the AQR Funds or in an AQR UCITS
is described in each fund’s prospectus. In addition, AQR reserves the right to waive investment minimums for
particular Clients or Subscribers.
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Item 8 – Methods of Analysis, Investment Strategies, and Risk of Loss
Methods of Analysis
As noted in Item 4 – Advisory Business, AQR specializes in quantitative investment analysis, which relies on
proprietary models, utilizing a set of valuation, momentum, and other factors, to generate views on investments and
applying them in a systematic process. In addition to quantitative investment analysis, AQR also utilizes
discretionary and/or hybrid strategies through a combination of quantitative and fundamental techniques.
Quantitative investment analysis is a method of evaluating securities and other assets by analyzing a large amount
of traditional and non-traditional data through the use of algorithms—or models—to generate investment decisions.
Depending on the given strategy or mandate, AQR’s models may consider a wide breadth of factors, including, for
example, traditional valuation measures, momentum indicators, price signals, textual analysis of financial reporting
and terms of trade information. These diverse sets of inputs, combined with AQR’s proprietary signal construction
methodology, optimization process, and trading approach, are the foundation of AQR’s investment process. There
are certain risks specific to firms specializing in quantitative investment analysis. Please see below under
“Investment Risks” for a summary of some of the risks specific to quantitative investment analysis.
AQR performs research internally. Once an investment approach is identified, AQR builds a model to test the
strategy’s viability. The model building process generally consists of two steps: (1) designing an investing strategy
to implement the given approach; and (2) producing testable implications. AQR performs ongoing research to
monitor and maintain the effectiveness of its models over time. AQR uses both internally-built datasets and external
data (e.g., Refinitiv, Bloomberg and other data services) in developing its quantitative forecasting computer models.
Investment Strategies
The Adviser utilizes several investment strategies, including both alternative and traditional investment strategies.
With regards to alternative strategies, AQR offers both absolute return strategies, which target zero net beta
exposure to traditional markets, either at all times, or on average; and total return strategies, which usually maintain
some positive beta to traditional markets. AQR also assists our clients with achieving their Environmental, Social
and Governance (“ESG”) goals and objectives. AQR also offers tax-aware implementation of some of our
strategies, which may help taxable investors better reach their after-tax investment goals. Each of AQR’s
investment strategies is managed by a team of portfolio managers in a manner consistent with our approach to
investing.
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Alternative Investment Strategies – Absolute Return
Absolute Return Strategy. Provides exposure to a highly diversified, broad suite of alternative strategies,
while maintaining near-zero correlation to traditional markets.
Apex. A comprehensive multi-strategy alternative that emphasizes innovative research and dynamic
allocations to underlying sources of returns.
Arbitrage Strategies. Offers convertible, merger and event-driven arbitrage strategies, or a diversified
portfolio combining these strategies.
Equity Market Neutral. Employs a multi-factor, market-neutral investment process based on AQR’s
broadest global stock selection capabilities.
Global Macro. Invests in major asset classes based on prices and macroeconomic fundamentals, using a
variety of quantitative and qualitative inputs.
Managed Futures. A collection of strategies that seeks to take advantage of price and fundamental trends
in traditional and alternative asset classes.
Opportunistic. Identifies securities that show extreme undervaluation based on both our quantitative
models, as well as a thorough qualitative review.
Real Return. Seeks to provide an inflation-hedging, positive real return through a diverse mix of strategies
and assets.
Style Premia. Seeks to harvest the return premia from well-known factors such as value, momentum, carry
and defensive across asset classes and geographies.
Alternative Investment Strategies – Total Return
Commodities. Diversified approach to investing across a range of commodities, seeking to provide returns
that are not overly reliant on any single commodity sector.
Diversified Growth Strategies. Offers a wide range of return sources including market risk premia,
alternative risk premia, and alpha, with less reliance on traditional assets than conventional diversified
growth strategies.
Long-Short Equity. Employs our investment process based on AQR’s global stock selection capabilities,
with modest exposure to equity markets.
Multi-Asset. Diversifies across global asset classes by risk, seeking to build a portfolio that is broadly
diversified and not overly reliant on any single asset class.
Multi-Strategy. Offers a diversified approach to alternatives investing, seeking to provide broad exposure
to several different AQR strategies at once.
Traditional Investment Strategies – Equities
Single-Style. Strategies that provide pure implementations of individual styles, such as defensive,
momentum and value.
Multi-Style. These strategies harness the diversification and potential return benefits of investing in multiple
well-known styles in an integrated fashion.
Enhanced. These strategies seek to generate consistent excess returns over an equity benchmark. They
combine established and proprietary signals based on rigorous research.
Relaxed Constraint. Strategies that build on Enhanced, but broaden the implementation through use of
limited shorting in a 130/30 context while remaining beta-1 products.
3-Alpha. These strategies extend our Enhanced capabilities by adding dedicated country and currency
models, seeking to capture additional alpha opportunities.
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Portable Alpha. Combines a diversifying alternative with exposure to an equity market, for an equity-
benchmarked strategy.
Tax-Aware
Seek to deliver particular alternative or traditional strategies with a focus on being tax-efficient and
potentially tax-beneficial across an investor's entire portfolio.
Environmental, Social and Governance
AQR’s ESG investing framework is designed to allow for the application of multiple approaches to
investment, including Responsible Asset Selection and Responsible Ownership methodologies.
There can be no assurance that the objectives associated with any strategies described above will be met.
At any time, AQR may add, remove, modify, overweight or underweight any of the strategies or factors it
employs. These methods, strategies, and investments involve risk of loss to Clients and Clients must be
prepared to bear the loss of their entire investment.
The methods, strategies, and investments described herein apply to Clients and Model Platforms.
Investment Risks
Some of the risks associated with AQR’s investment strategies, and the securities and other assets utilized to
implement those strategies, include, but are not limited to, those listed below.
Arbitrage Transaction Risks. If the requisite elements of an arbitrage strategy are not properly analyzed or
unexpected events or price movements intervene, losses can occur which can be magnified to the extent AQR
is employing leverage. Moreover, arbitrage strategies often depend upon identifying favorable “spreads,”
which can also be identified, reduced, or eliminated by other market participants.
Below Investment Grade Securities Risk. Although bonds rated below investment grade (also known as “junk”
securities) generally pay higher rates of interest than investment grade bonds, bonds rated below investment
grade are high risk, speculative investments that may cause income and principal losses to Clients.
Borrowing and Embedded Leverage. Some Clients allow secured and unsecured borrowing to the maximum
extent allowable under applicable credit regulations. Like other forms of leverage, the use of borrowing can
enhance the risk of capital loss in the event of adverse changes in the level of market prices of the assets
being financed with the borrowings. Leverage may also take the form of financial instruments, including OTC
derivative instruments which are inherently leveraged, and products with embedded leverage such as futures,
options, short sales, swaps, and forwards, in which an investor can lose more money than the initial cost of
the investment. The use of leverage allows the Clients to increase their exposure to assets, such that total
assets may be greater than capital invested. However, the use of leverage may also magnify the volatility—
or the likelihood of short-term changes in value—of any portfolio. The effect of the use of leverage in a portfolio
may result in losses to the portfolio that exceed losses to the portfolio if such portfolio did not utilize leverage.
Capacity Constraints. A number of conflicts of interest may arise as a result of the Adviser’s or portfolio
manager’s management of a number of accounts with similar investment strategies. Often, an investment
opportunity may be suitable for more than one Client, but may not be available in sufficient quantities for all
such Clients to participate fully. Similarly, there may be limited opportunity to sell an investment held by
multiple Clients. In circumstances where the amount of total exposure to a strategy or investment type across
Clients is, in the opinion of the Adviser, capacity-constrained, the availability of the strategy or investment type
for one or more Client’s will be reduced in the Adviser’s discretion. A Client may therefore have reduced
exposure to a capacity constrained strategy or investment type, which could adversely affect such Client’s
return. The Adviser is not obligated to allocate capacity pro rata and may take its financial interest into account
when allocating capacity among Clients. Among other things, capacity constraints in a particular strategy or
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investment type could cause a Sponsored Fund, Series Fund, or sub-fund of the AQR UCITS to close to all or
certain new investors.
Cash and Forward Trading. Cash and forward contracts for the trading of certain commodities, such as foreign
currencies, may be entered into with banks and market makers. Although the banks and market makers may
be subject to regulatory oversight by the CFTC, the SEC, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc.
(“FINRA”), the National Futures Association (“NFA”), the Federal Reserve Board, the Comptroller of the
Currency, foreign regulators, and other Federal and state authorities, these regulatory agencies do not typically
regulate the trading of cash commodities or forward contracts. In addition, such contracts are not traded on
exchanges. As a result, there is no limitation on daily price movements of cash or forward contracts, and
market makers are not required to make markets in any cash commodities. Also, certain customer protections
will not be available to Clients in connection with any such trading. There have been periods during which
certain market makers have refused to quote prices for cash commodities or forward contracts or have quoted
prices with an unusually wide spread between the price at which the market maker is prepared to buy and the
price at which it is prepared to sell. If this should occur, AQR might not be able to utilize effectively its cash
and forward trading programs. This could result in significant losses to a Client.
China Risk. Despite economic and market reforms implemented over the last few decades, the Chinese
government still exercises substantial influence over many aspects of the private sector and may own or control
many companies. Investing in China also involves risks of losses due to expropriation, nationalization,
confiscation of assets and property, and the imposition of restrictions on foreign investments and on
repatriation of capital invested. There can be no assurance that economic reforms implemented over the past
few decades will continue or that they will be respected.
Commodities. Commodity investments are affected by business, financial market, or legal uncertainties.
There can be no assurance that AQR will correctly evaluate the nature and magnitude of the various factors
that could affect the value of and return on its commodity investments. Prices of commodity investments may
be volatile, and a variety of factors that are inherently difficult to predict, such as domestic or international
economic and political developments, may significantly affect the results of a Client’s portfolio and the value of
its investments. In addition, the value of the Client’s portfolio may fluctuate as the general level of interest
rates fluctuates.
Commodity Futures and Options. Commodity futures markets are highly volatile and are influenced by factors
such as changing supply and demand relationships, governmental programs and policies, national and
international political and economic events, and changes in interest rates. In addition, because of the low
margin deposits normally required in commodity futures trading, a high degree of leverage may be typical of a
Client engaging in commodity futures trading. As a result, a relatively small price movement in a commodity
futures contract may result in substantial losses to such Client. Commodity options, like commodity futures
contracts, are speculative, and their use involves risk. Specific market movements of the cash commodity or
futures contract underlying an option cannot be predicted and no assurance can be given that a liquid offset
market will exist for any particular futures option at any particular time.
Convertible Securities Risk. The market value of a convertible security performs like that of a regular debt
security; that is, if market interest rates rise, the value of a convertible security usually falls. In addition,
convertible securities are subject to the risk that the issuer will not be able to pay interest or dividends when
due, and their market value may change based on changes in the issuer’s credit rating or the market’s
perception of the issuer’s creditworthiness. Since it derives a portion of its value from the common stock into
which it may be converted, a convertible security is also subject to the same types of market and issuer risks
that apply to the underlying common stock.
Counterparty Risk. Counterparty risk is the risk to each party of a contract that the counterparty will not live
up to its contractual obligations. Clients could potentially incur a significant loss as a result of counterparty
credit exposure should the counterparty fail to fulfill its obligations.
Currency Risk. Currency risk is the risk that changes in currency exchange rates will negatively affect
securities denominated in, and/or receiving revenues in, foreign currencies. The liquidity and trading value of
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foreign currencies could be affected by global economic factors, such as inflation, interest rate levels, and
trade balances among countries, as well as the actions of sovereign governments and central banks. Adverse
changes in currency exchange rates (relative to the U.S. dollar) may erode or reverse any potential gains from
investments in securities denominated in a foreign currency or may widen existing losses.
Cybersecurity Risk. With the increased use of technologies to conduct business, the Adviser and its Clients
are susceptible to operational, information security and related risks. In general, cyber incidents can result
from deliberate attacks or unintentional events. Cyberattacks include, but are not limited to, gaining
unauthorized access to digital systems (e.g., through “hacking” or malicious software coding) for purposes of
misappropriating assets or sensitive information, corrupting data, or causing operational disruption.
Cyberattacks may also be carried out in a manner that does not require gaining unauthorized access, such as
causing denial-of-service attacks on websites (i.e., efforts to make network services unavailable to intended
users). Cyber incidents affecting the Adviser, sub-adviser(s) and other service providers (including, but not
limited to, administrators, accountants, law firms, custodians, transfer agents and financial intermediaries)
have the ability to cause disruptions and impact business operations, potentially resulting in financial losses,
impediments to trading, the inability of Clients and/or investors to transact business, violations of applicable
privacy and other laws, regulatory fines, penalties, reputational damage, reimbursement or other compensation
costs, or additional compliance costs. Similar adverse consequences could result from cyber incidents
affecting issuers of securities in which a Client invests, counterparties with which a Client engages in
transactions, governmental and other regulatory authorities, exchange and other financial market operators,
banks, brokers, dealers, insurance companies and other financial institutions (including financial intermediaries
and other service providers for Clients) and other parties. In addition, substantial costs may be incurred in
order to prevent any cyber incidents in the future. While a Client’s service providers may have established
business continuity plans in the event of, and risk management systems to prevent, such cyber incidents, there
are inherent limitations in such plans and systems including the possibility that certain risks have not been
identified. Furthermore, the Adviser cannot control the cyber security plans and systems put in place by its
service providers or any other third parties whose operations may affect a Client. As a result, Clients could be
negatively impacted.
Distressed Investments Risk. The Adviser may utilize investments in distressed investments, which are or
have been issued by companies that are, or might be, involved in reorganizations or financial restructurings,
either out of court or in bankruptcy. A Client’s investments in distressed securities typically may involve the
purchase of high-yield bonds, bank debt, corporate loans or other indebtedness of such companies. These
investments may present a substantial risk of default or may be in default at the time of investment. The Client
may incur additional expenses to the extent it is required to seek recovery upon a default in the payment of
principal or interest on its portfolio holdings. In any reorganization or liquidation proceeding relating to an
investment, the Client may lose its entire investment or may be required to accept cash or securities with a
value less than its original investment. Among the risks inherent in investments in a troubled issuer is that it
frequently may be difficult to obtain information as to the true financial condition of the issuer. The Adviser’s
judgments about the credit quality of a financially distressed issuer and the relative value of its securities may
prove to be wrong.
Emerging Markets Investments. Investing in the securities or other instruments of issuers located in non-U.S.
countries may involve certain risks not typically associated with investing in established economies or
securities markets. Such risks may include (i) the risk of nationalization or expropriation of assets and
confiscatory or other taxation; (ii) social, economic and political instability, including war; (iii) dependence on
exports; (iv) less liquidity of securities markets; (v) significant currency exchange rate devaluations,
fluctuations, and declines against the U.S. dollar; (vi) potentially higher rates of inflation (including hyper-
inflation) and rapid fluctuations in inflation; (vii) controls or restrictions on foreign investment and limitations on
repatriation of invested capital and the Client’s ability to exchange local currencies for U.S. dollars; (viii) a
higher degree of governmental involvement in and control over the economies; (ix) government decisions to
discontinue support for economic reform programs and imposition of centrally planned economies; (x)
differences in accounting, auditing, financial reporting and record keeping standards which may result in the
unavailability of material information about economies and issuers; (xi) less extensive regulatory oversight of
securities markets, which, among other things, could lead to market manipulation; (xii) longer settlement
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periods for securities transactions; (xiii) less stringent laws regarding the protection of investors; (xiv) certain
consequences regarding the maintenance of a Client’s portfolio securities and cash with sub-custodians and
securities depositories in such countries; (xv) difficulty in enforcing contractual obligations; (xvi) inexperience
of financial intermediaries, lack of modern technology, and the lack of a sufficient capital base to expand
business operations; and (xvii) less available information than is generally the case in the United States. All
of the foregoing factors lead to greater market volatility and risk of loss.
Equity Securities. Equity securities fluctuate in value in response to many factors, including the activities,
results of operations, and financial condition of individual companies; the business market in which individual
companies compete; industry market conditions; interest rates; and general economic environments. In
addition, events such as domestic and international political instability, terrorism and natural disasters may be
unforeseeable and contribute to market volatility in ways that may adversely affect investments made by a
Client.
Environmental, Social and Governance Matters. When ESG is a factor AQR considers in making an
investment, there is no guarantee that AQR will successfully implement and make investments in companies
that create positive environmental, social or governance impact while enhancing long-term shareholder value
and achieving financial returns. Considering ESG qualities when evaluating an investment both results in the
selection or exclusion of certain investments based on AQR's view of certain ESG-related and other factors,
and also carries the risk that AQR may underperform funds that do not take ESG-related factors into account
because the market may ultimately have a different view of a particular company's performance than that
anticipated by AQR. In addition, others may differ in their views of what constitutes positive or negative ESG
characteristics or may use different data and/or techniques to evaluate ESG characteristics. ESG data
received from third parties may be incomplete, inaccurate or unavailable from time to time. As a result, there
is a risk that AQR incorrectly assess a security or issuer, resulting in the incorrect inclusion or exclusion of a
security in a Client’s portfolio. In addition, securities or issuers in the relevant investment universe for which
ESG-related data is not available will be included in a Client’s portfolio. Finally, the regulatory landscape for
sustainable and ESG related investing is developing and future rules and regulations may require AQR to
modify or alter its investment process.
ERISA Considerations. Certain Client assets may, at various times, be considered “plan assets” for the
purposes of Title I of the U.S. Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”) or Section 4975
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Accordingly, during such periods, the administration and
operation of any such Client would, among other things, become subject to ERISA’s fiduciary duty and
prohibited transaction rules. In such a case, the investment strategies employed by the Adviser for the Client
will be subject to investment limitations and restrictions that would not otherwise be applicable and may
materially impact the Client’s performance.
Execution/Implementation Risk. There can be no assurance that AQR’s investment strategies will be
successfully implemented. Failure to successfully implement AQR’s investment strategies, due to errors
related to the operation of quantitative models or otherwise, can lead to substantial losses or missed
opportunities for gains for a Client. While AQR monitors client portfolios, there can be no assurance that risks
associated with the implementation of investment strategies will be effectively managed.
Fixed-Income and Debt Securities. Investment in fixed-income and debt securities, such as bonds, notes, and
asset-backed securities, subject a Client to the risk that the value of these securities overall will decline
because of rising interest rates. Similarly, portfolios that hold such securities are subject to the risk that the
portfolio’s income will decline because of falling interest rates. Investments in these types of securities will
also be subject to the credit risk created when a debt issuer fails to pay interest and principal in a timely manner,
or that negative perceptions of the issuer’s ability to make such payments will cause the price of that debt to
decline. Investments in high-yield debt securities will also subject the investments to the risk that the securities
may fluctuate more in price, and are less liquid than higher-rated securities because issuers of such lower-
rated debt securities are not as strong financially, and are more likely to encounter financial difficulties and be
more vulnerable to adverse changes in the economy.
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Foreign Investments Risk. Foreign investments often involve special risks not present in U.S. investments that
can increase the chances that an investment will lose money. For example, a Client may hold its foreign
securities and cash in foreign banks and securities depositories, which may be recently organized or new to
the foreign custody business and subject to only limited or no regulatory oversight. Changes in foreign currency
exchange rates can affect the value of a portfolio. The economies of certain foreign markets may not compare
favorably with the economy of the United States, and the governments of certain countries may prohibit or
impose substantial restrictions on foreign investments in their capital markets or in certain industries. Many
foreign governments do not supervise and regulate stock exchanges, brokers, and the sale of securities to the
same extent as does the United States and may not have laws to protect investors that are comparable to U.S.
securities laws. Settlement and clearance procedures in certain foreign markets may result in delays in
payment for or delivery of securities not typically associated with settlement and clearance of U.S. investments.
Futures Contracts Risks. Futures prices are highly volatile. An extremely high degree of leverage is typical of
a futures trading account; as a result, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract price may result
in substantial losses to a portfolio. Like other leveraged investments, any purchase or sale of a futures contract
may result in losses in excess of the amount invested. Futures exchanges and trading facilities limit
fluctuations in certain futures contract prices during a single day by regulations referred to as “daily price
fluctuation limits” or “daily limits.” During a single trading day no trades may be executed at prices beyond the
daily limit. Futures prices have occasionally moved to the daily limit for several consecutive days with little or
no trading. Similar occurrences could prevent the prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions and subject a
portfolio to substantial losses. The CFTC and certain futures exchanges and trading facilities have established
limits referred to as “speculative position limits” on the maximum net long or net short positions that any person
may hold or control in certain futures contracts. All of the futures positions held by all Client accounts owned
or controlled by AQR, AQR Arbitrage, and their principals may be aggregated with positions of each Client
portfolio for the purpose of determining compliance with position limits. Trading instructions may have to be
modified and positions held by a Client may have to be liquidated in order to avoid exceeding such limits. Such
modification or liquidation, if required, could adversely affect the operations and profitability of a portfolio.
General Risks of Derivatives Use. Derivatives trading is highly speculative. Price movements of derivative
contracts are influenced by, among other things, changing supply and demand relationships, governmental
agricultural and trade programs and policies, and national and international political and economic events.
Foreign currency forward prices are influenced by, among other things, changes in balances of payments and
trade, domestic and international rates of inflation, international trade restrictions, and currency devaluations
and revaluations. In addition, unless a portfolio is hedged against fluctuations in the exchange rate between
the U.S. dollar and the currencies in which trading is done on some foreign exchanges, any profits that such a
portfolio realizes in trading on such exchanges could be eliminated by adverse changes in the exchange rate,
or such a portfolio could incur losses as a result of any such changes. Due to the low margin deposits normally
required in derivatives trading, an extremely high degree of leverage is typical of a derivatives trading account.
As a result, a relatively small price movement in a derivatives contract price may result in substantial losses to
a portfolio. Like other leveraged investments, any purchase or sale of a derivatives contract may result in
losses in excess of the amount invested. Accordingly, relatively small derivatives positions have the potential
to erode significantly or erase gains and compound losses in other investments held by a portfolio.
Hedging. There can be no assurances that a particular hedge is appropriate or that certain risk is measured
properly. Further, while AQR may enter into hedging transactions to seek to reduce risk, such transactions
may result in poorer overall performance and increased (rather than reduced) risk for the Client portfolios than
if AQR did not engage in any such hedging transactions.
Illiquid Instruments. Certain instruments, such as derivatives and other types of unregistered financial
instruments, may have no readily available market or third-party pricing. Reduced liquidity may have an
adverse impact on market price, and the Adviser might only be able to liquidate these positions at highly
disadvantageous prices, if at all. The market prices, if any, for such illiquid financial instruments tend to change
rather quickly, and the Adviser may not be able to sell them when it desires to do so or to realize what it
perceives to be their fair value in the event of a sale. Even those markets which the Adviser expects to be
liquid can experience periods, possibly extended periods, of illiquidity. For some investments, the Adviser may
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be unable to predict with confidence what the exit strategy will ultimately be for any given position or that one
will definitely be available. Exit strategies, which appear to be viable when an investment is initiated, may be
precluded by the time the investment is ready to be realized due to economic, legal, political, or other factors.
Interest Rate Risk. Portfolios may be subject to interest rate risk. Generally, the value of fixed income
securities will change inversely with changes in interest rates. As interest rates rise, the market value of fixed
income securities tends to decrease. Conversely, as interest rates fall, the market value of fixed income
securities tends to increase. This risk will be greater for long-term securities than for short-term securities.
AQR may attempt to minimize the exposure of the portfolios to interest rate changes through the use of interest
rate swaps, interest rate futures, and/or interest rate options. However, there can be no guarantee that AQR
will be successful in fully mitigating the impact of interest rate changes on the portfolios.
Investment and Trading Risk Generally. Investments in securities and other financial instruments and products
that are subject to market forces risk the permanent loss of capital as a result of adverse market developments,
which can be unpredictable. To the extent that a portfolio is concentrated in any one particular strategy, the
risk of any incorrect investment decision is increased. Each strategy exposes the Client’s capital to the risk of
an extremely rapid and severe decline in value in the event of a sudden change in the level of volatility (e.g.,
a market crash) that is not anticipated by AQR.
Leverage. Certain of AQR’s strategies utilize varying amounts of leverage, which involves the borrowing of
funds from U.S. and non-U.S. brokerage firms, banks, and other institutions in order to be able to increase the
amount of capital available for securities investments. Leverage may also be embedded in financial
instruments, including futures and short sales, as well as OTC derivatives like options, swaps, and forwards,
which enable investors to gain exposure to assets whose value exceeds the amount of capital necessary to
obtain such exposure. Money borrowed will be subject to interest, costs and other fees, which may or may not
be recovered by earnings on the securities purchased. A fund or account also may be required to maintain
minimum average balances in connection with a borrowing or to pay a commitment or other fee to maintain a
line of credit. Either of these requirements would increase the cost of borrowing over the stated interest rate.
Unless the appreciation and income, if any, on assets acquired with borrowed funds exceed the costs of
borrowing, the use of leverage will diminish the investment performance of a fund or account compared with
what it would have been without leverage.
Liquidity Risk Generally. Liquidity—or the ability to quickly sell an asset at its fair market value—is important
to the Adviser’s investment strategies. Under certain market conditions, such as during volatile markets or
when trading in a financial instrument or market is otherwise impaired, the liquidity of the Adviser’s portfolio
positions may be reduced. In addition, the Adviser may, from time to time, hold large positions in a particular
portfolio with respect to a specific type of financial instrument, which may reduce the portfolio’s liquidity. During
such times, AQR may be unable to dispose of certain financial instruments, including longer-term financial
instruments, which would adversely affect its ability to rebalance a portfolio or meet redemption requests.
Under these circumstances the Adviser may be forced to dispose of financial instruments at reduced prices,
thereby adversely affecting its performance. If there are other market participants seeking to dispose of similar
financial instruments at the same time, the Adviser may be unable to sell such financial instruments or prevent
losses relating to such financial instruments. Furthermore, if the Adviser incurs substantial trading losses, the
need for liquidity could rise sharply while its access to liquidity could be impaired. Finally, in conjunction with
a market downturn, the Adviser’s counterparties could incur losses of their own, thereby weakening their
financial condition and increasing the Adviser’s credit risk to those counterparties.
Litigation Risk. Investing in companies involved in significant restructuring tends to involve increased litigation
risk. This risk may be greater in the event a Client takes a large position or is otherwise prominently involved
on a bankruptcy or creditors’ committee. The expense of asserting claims (or defending against counterclaims)
and recovering any amounts pursuant to settlements or judgments may be borne by the Client. Further,
ownership of companies over certain threshold levels involves additional filing requirements and substantive
regulation on such owners, and if the Client fails to comply with all of these requirements, the Client may be
forced to disgorge profits, pay fines or otherwise bear losses or other costs from such failure to comply.
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Market Disruption Risk. Geopolitical and other events, including war, terrorism, economic uncertainty, trade
disputes, public health crises and related geopolitical events have led, and in the future may lead, to increased
market volatility, which may disrupt U.S. and world economies and markets and may have significant adverse
direct or indirect effects on Clients and their investments. Such events include the recent pandemic spread of
the novel coronavirus known as COVID-19, the duration and full effects of which are still uncertain, and any
future pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of a contagious disease.
Clients could lose money due to the effects of a market disruption. A market disruption may disturb historical
pricing relationships or trends that certain strategies and models are based on, resulting in losses to Clients.
Similarly, the responses of governments, regulators and exchanges to a market disruption could adversely
impact AQR’s ability to implement certain strategies or manage the risk of outstanding positions. For example,
regulators have permitted the delay in the public reporting of financial information, and numerous exchanges
in the recent environment have implemented trading suspensions or restrictions on short selling. Although
multiple asset classes may be affected by a market disruption, the duration and effects may not be the same
for all types of assets.
New Issues. At times, AQR advises certain Clients to purchase equity securities issued through initial public
offerings (“IPOs”). These include registered offerings under the Securities Act of 1933 (“new issues”). Pursuant
to FINRA Rule 5130, “restricted persons” may not participate in gains or losses from new issues. As a result,
investors who are not restricted persons may be allocated all, or a larger portion than their typical pro rata
share, of the profits and/or losses related to new issue offerings. Under such circumstances, certain restricted
persons will not receive gains from the new issue investment. Similarly, investors who are not restricted
persons will receive more than their pro rata share of the losses from such an investment. When the Adviser
subscribes for securities issued in an IPO on behalf of multiple Clients, the Adviser will allocate the securities
among the Clients in a method that the Adviser deems fair and equitable to participating Clients over time.
New issue offerings, on occasion, experience rapid increases and/or decreases in market value following such
an offering.
Off-Balance Sheet Risk. In the normal course of business, AQR may, on behalf of Clients, invest in financial
instruments with off-balance sheet risk. These instruments include futures contracts, forward contracts, swaps,
and securities and options contracts sold short. An off-balance sheet risk is associated with a financial
instrument if such instrument exposes the investor to an accounting and economic loss in excess of the
investor’s recognized asset carrying value in such financial instrument, if any, or if the ultimate liability
associated with the financial instrument has the potential to exceed the amount that the investor recognizes
as a liability in the investor’s statement of assets and liabilities. Additionally, in the normal course of business,
AQR may purchase long positions in option contracts that do not have off-balance sheet risk. The risk that
these financial instruments expose the investor to is not in excess of the investor’s recognized asset carrying
value in the statement of assets and liabilities.
Options. There are risks associated with the sale and purchase of call options. The seller (writer) of a call
option which is covered (e.g., the writer holds the underlying security) assumes the risk of a decline in the
market price of the underlying security below the purchase price of the underlying security less the premium
received and gives up the opportunity for gain on the underlying security above the exercise price of the option.
The seller of an uncovered call option assumes the risk of a theoretically unlimited increase in the market price
of the underlying security above the exercise price of the option. The buyer of a call option assumes the risk
of losing its entire investment in the call option.
There are risks associated with the sale and purchase of put options. The seller (writer) of a put option which
is covered (e.g., the writer has a short position in the underlying security) assumes the risk of an increase in
the market price of the underlying security above the sales price (paid to establish the short position) of the
underlying security if the market price rises above the exercise price of the option. The seller of an uncovered
put option assumes the risk of decline in the market price of the underlying security below the exercise price
of the option. The buyer of a put option assumes the risk of losing its entire investment in the put option.
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Participation on Swap Execution Facilities. SEF participation, direct or indirect, may nevertheless require a
Client and/or AQR to consent to the SEF’s jurisdiction as a self-regulatory organization and to be subject to
certain aspects of the SEF’s rulebook, which could subject it to a wide range of regulations and other
obligations, together with associated costs. Like any other self-regulatory organization, SEFs regularly revise
and interpret their rules, and such revisions and interpretations could adversely impact Clients.
Portfolio Risk. AQR Clients are also subject to investment management risk, which is the risk that AQR's
investment process, techniques and analyses do not achieve their desired results and the securities or other
financial instruments selected for a particular Client will result in returns that are inconsistent with that Client's
investment objective. Clients advised by AQR are subject to limitations on aggregate and/or portfolio level
ownership interest across certain companies, commodities and sectors, arising from statutory, regulatory, self-
regulatory organization requirements or company ownership restrictions. Furthermore, legislative, regulatory
or tax developments affect AQR's investment techniques and/or opportunities in connection with managing the
Client's assets and can also adversely impact the ability of the Client to achieve its investment objectives.
Portfolio Turnover. Active and/or frequent trading of securities and financial instruments within a portfolio may
produce increased transaction costs, including brokerage commissions, fees, transaction taxes, and other
transaction costs. Likewise, such active and/or frequent trading may result in short-term capital gains tax
treatment.
Regulatory Limitations on Investment Adviser Activity. Various laws, rules, regulations and corporate
requirements impose regulatory filing and/or other compliance obligations based on meeting, exceeding or
falling below certain ownership or voting thresholds in publicly traded securities or engaging in certain other
securities transactions such as short sales. Compliance with such filing and/or other requirements may result
in additional costs to one or more Clients, the Advisor and/or its affiliates. In certain circumstances, AQR, on
behalf of one or more of its Clients, will limit certain or all purchases or sales (including short sales), sell existing
investments, or otherwise restrict, forgo, or limit the exercise of rights when AQR, in its sole discretion, deems
it appropriate in light of potential operational costs, regulatory or corporate restrictions on ownership, voting
rights, or other consequences resulting from reaching or exceeding the applicable threshold. Additionally,
governments may impose bans, sanctions, restrictions or limitations on ownership and/or trading. Such
limitations can be applied to securities, derivative instruments or other assets or instruments, including but not
limited to, futures, options, or swaps. The imposition of the types of restrictions noted above will, in certain
circumstances, adversely affect one or more Clients’ performance.
Repurchase Agreements. Certain of AQR’s strategies utilize repurchase transactions. In a repurchase
transaction, a Client acquires a security from an approved counterparty and simultaneously agrees to resell it
to the approved counterparty, at a price exceeding the purchase price by an amount that reflects an agreed-
upon interest rate effective for the period during which the repurchase agreement is in effect. Repurchase
agreements essentially constitute a form of borrowing secured by collateral in the form of securities and will
have the effect of leveraging a Client’s assets. These agreements may be entered into on an overnight,
specified term or open-ended basis. These instruments increase the risk of loss due to the use of leverage
and potential counterparty nonperformance.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. Certain of AQR’s strategies utilize reverse repurchase transactions. In a
reverse repurchase transaction, a Client sells a security to an approved counterparty and simultaneously
agrees to repurchase it from the counterparty, at a price less than the sale price by an amount that reflects an
agreed-upon interest rate effective for the period during which the reverse repurchase agreement is in effect.
These instruments increase the risk of loss due to the use of leverage and potential counterparty
nonperformance.
Securities Lending. Some of AQR’s Clients lend their portfolio securities to certain types of eligible borrowers
in an attempt to increase income and/or total return. Each loan is secured continuously by collateral in the
form of cash, high quality money market instruments, or securities issued by the U.S. government or its
agencies or instrumentalities. Securities lending may be conducted by a securities lending agent, who
maintains a list of broker-dealers, banks, or other institutions that it has determined to be creditworthy. AQR
has the ability to request that a borrower be removed from the securities lending agent’s “approved list”. A
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Client will only enter into loan arrangements with borrowers on the approved list. Securities lending involves
the risk that the borrower may fail to return the securities in a timely manner or at all. As a result, a portfolio
may lose money and there may be a delay in recovering the loaned securities, as well as regulatory
consequences. The portfolio could also lose money if it does not recover the securities and/or the value of the
collateral falls, including the value of investments made with cash collateral. Securities lending also may have
certain adverse tax consequences.
Short Sales. A short sale involves the sale of a security that a portfolio does not own in the expectation of
purchasing the same security (or a security exchangeable therefore) at a later date at a lower price. To make
delivery to the buyer, the portfolio must borrow the security, and the portfolio is obligated to return the security
to the lender, which is accomplished by a later purchase of the security by the portfolio. In some cases, the
lender may rescind the loan of securities and cause the borrower to repurchase shares at inflated prices,
resulting in a loss. When a portfolio makes a short sale in the United States, it must leave the proceeds thereof
with the broker, and it must also deposit with the broker an amount of cash or marketable securities sufficient
under current margin regulations to collateralize its obligation to replace the borrowed securities that have
been sold. If short sales are executed on a foreign exchange, such transactions will be governed by local law.
A short sale involves the risk of a theoretically unlimited increase in the market price of the security. The extent
to which a portfolio will engage in short sales depends upon AQR’s investment strategy and perception of
market direction. In addition, global regulatory prohibitions on short sales may impair AQR’s ability to
implement its investment process. Such prohibitions may add additional constraints to a strategy, which may
increase transaction costs as well as the time required to monitor compliance with the restrictions. There is
the risk that the instruments borrowed by Clients in connection with short sales would need to be returned to
the lenders on short notice. If such request for return of instruments occurs at a time when other short sellers
of the same instrument are receiving similar requests, a “short squeeze” can occur, wherein Clients might be
compelled, at the most disadvantageous time, to replace the borrowed instruments previously sold short with
purchases on the open market possibly at prices significantly in excess of the proceeds received earlier in
originally selling the instruments short. Purchasing instruments to close out the short position can itself cause
the price of the instruments to rise further, thereby exacerbating any loss.
SPACs Risk. AQR may, on behalf of Clients, make use of stock, warrants, and other securities of special
purpose acquisition companies (“SPACs”) or similar special purpose entities that pool funds to seek potential
acquisition opportunities. Unless and until an acquisition is completed, a SPAC generally invests its assets
(less a portion retained to cover expenses) in U.S. Government securities, money market fund securities and
cash; if an acquisition that meets the requirements for the SPAC is not completed within a pre-established
period of time, the invested funds are returned to the entity’s shareholders. Because SPACs and similar
entities are in essence blank check companies without an operating history or ongoing business other than
seeking acquisitions, the value of their securities is particularly dependent on the ability of the entity’s
management to identify and complete a profitable acquisition. Some SPACs may pursue acquisitions only
within certain industries or regions, which may increase the volatility of their prices. In addition, these
securities, which are typically traded in the over-the-counter market, can in certain circumstances be
considered illiquid and/or be subject to restrictions on resale. In addition, the SPAC industry has recently
received heightened regulatory scrutiny. The SEC, for instance, recently adopted new rules and amendments
(the "New SPACs Rules") related to initial public offerings by SPACs and in subsequent business combinations
between SPACs and private operating companies. The New SPACs Rules, as well as any future rules or
requirements issued by the SEC or other regulatory agencies, could have a material adverse effect on a
SPAC's ability to identify and complete a successful business combination and/or on the results of the SPAC's
operations.
Social, Political and Economic Uncertainty Risk. The success of a Client’s activities will be affected by general
economic and market conditions, such as interest rates, availability of credit, inflation rates, economic
uncertainty, changes in laws (including laws relating to taxation of the Client’s investments), currency exchange
controls, as well as the national and international political circumstances (including wars, terrorist acts, security
operations or civil unrest). These factors will in many instances affect the level and volatility of securities prices
and the liquidity of Client’s investments. Volatility or illiquidity could impair Client’s profitability or result in
losses. These impacts can be exacerbated by failures of governments and societies to appropriately respond
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to emerging events or threats, whether by greater governmental and regulatory involvement in the economy,
financial markets or social factors that impact the economy, or by insufficient governmental or regulatory action,
among other possibilities. For example, a Client may be exposed to the direct and indirect consequences of
potential or actual political, economic, social and diplomatic changes. Clients could incur material losses even
if AQR reacts quickly to difficult market conditions, and there can be no assurance that Clients will not suffer
material losses and other adverse effects from broad and rapid changes in market conditions in the future.
SOFR and Other Benchmark-Related Risks. The London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), which was
commonly used as a reference rate within various financial contracts, has been discontinued. Certain
regulators around the world have identified new reference rates as preferred alternatives to LIBOR, including
in the U.S. The Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) is a risk-free overnight floating rate that is
currently published in multiple formats, including as an overnight rate, as a compounded average and as an
index. Additionally, the CME Group has begun publishing a forward-looking Term SOFR rate that is calculated
based on futures trading on the overnight SOFR rate. In addition to the SOFR rate variations, which have
become the primary reference rates in the United States, in the U.S. other alternative floating rates have been
developed, including the Bloomberg Short-Term Bank Yield Index (BSBY), Ameribor, the ICE Bank Yield Index
and the IHS Markit published USD Credit Inclusive Term Rate (CRITR). Various market participants have
adopted these floating rates to various degrees and the market practice may shift over time. Depending on
various factors, one or more such reference rates may become dominant, while other reference rates may fall
out of favor. If a Client invests in instruments that utilize a reference rate that falls out of favor, the value of
such instrument may be affected. In addition, the foregoing may result in periods of illiquidity in the markets in
which the Client trades, which may have adverse effects on the Client’s ability to trade certain instruments.
Tax Aware Risks. The benefit of tax-aware investing to an investor is dependent upon the various tax
considerations of each investor. The tax aware strategy is intended to take into account the U.S. tax
consequences to U.S. taxable investors and does not necessarily contemplate the consequences to U.S. tax-
exempt or non-U.S. investors. Accordingly, the strategy may not maximize the value of the assets for U.S. tax-
exempt or non-U.S. investors. For example, in seeking to achieve longer holding periods for U.S. taxable
investors for potential profits to qualify as long-term capital gains, AQR may advise holding positions for longer
than it otherwise would in the absence of such tax advantages, notwithstanding the fact that such potential tax
advantages are only relevant to U.S. taxable investors. Such actions may result in losses that it would not
have incurred if positions were held for shorter periods. The tax treatment of investments may be adversely
affected by future tax legislation, U.S. Treasury regulations, and/or other guidance issued by the Internal
Revenue Service that could affect the character, timing, and/or amount of taxable income or gains attributable
to an account. Market conditions may limit the ability to realize tax losses or dividend income taxed at favorable
tax rates. Over time, an investor in a tax-aware strategy may accumulate more built-in gains in a securities
portfolio. With respect to certain Clients pursuing tax aware strategies, AQR may take positions with respect
to certain tax issues that depend on legal conclusions not yet addressed by the courts or the IRS. Should any
such positions be successfully challenged by the IRS, such Clients might be found to have a different tax
liability for that year than that reported on its U.S. federal income tax return. There may also be instances in
which the Investment Manager is not able to dispose of positions held in a Client account in a tax-efficient
manner due to the nature of the positions (e.g., any gains on the closure of a short position would be considered
short-term capital gains) or other circumstances beyond the Investment Manager’s control.
Use of Swaps and Other Derivatives. AQR may make use of swaps and other forms of derivative contracts.
In general, a derivative contract (including options, as described above) typically involves leverage, i.e., it
provides exposure to potential gain or loss from a change in the level of the market price of a security, currency
or commodity (or a basket or index) in a notional amount that exceeds the amount of cash or assets required
to establish or maintain the derivative contract. Consequently, an adverse change in the relevant price level
can result in a loss of capital that is more exaggerated than would have resulted from an investment that did
not involve the use of leverage inherent in the derivative contract. Depending on the strategy, many of the
derivative contracts used by AQR may be privately negotiated in the OTC market. These contracts also involve
exposure to credit risk, since contract performance depends in part on the financial condition of the
counterparty or the counterparty’s guarantor. These transactions may also involve significant transaction
costs.
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Virtual Currency Derivatives. AQR advises certain Clients to invest in exchange-traded instruments which are
linked to an underlying virtual currency (“Virtual Currency Derivatives”). As the value of a derivative depends
largely upon price movements in the underlying asset, the risks applicable to trading underlying virtual
currencies also affect the value of Virtual Currency Derivatives. Accordingly, Virtual Currency Derivatives may
be subject to substantial price volatility. Virtual currency prices are affected by numerous factors, including
limited supply, the liquidity of exchanges, the opacity of virtual currency markets, concerns about perceived
manipulation of the price and the safety of virtual currencies, market perceptions of the value of virtual
currencies as an investment, a shifting regulatory landscape and general lack of regulation with respect to the
virtual currency markets, political and economic uncertainties around the world and uncertainties involved in
using an early stage technological innovation. A central risk of trading in virtual currencies, and associated
Virtual Currency Derivatives, is the rapid fluctuation in their market prices. In addition, the digital nature of
virtual currencies and virtual currency exchange markets makes them attractive targets for theft, hacking,
cyberattacks and data breaches. Because transactions in virtual currency are generally immutable, any
investor losses may be irreversible. Although this is not a direct risk for investors in Virtual Currency
Derivatives, it could impact the value of the underlying virtual currencies.
The initial margin for Virtual Currency Derivatives is set by the exchange as a percentage of the value of the
contract and can be up to 100% of the value of the contract. Futures commission merchants (“FCMs”) may
also impose margin rates that are higher than those imposed by the exchanges, once again up to 100% of the
value of the contract. The volatility in the prices of the underlying virtual currency therefore can lead to
significant and sudden increases in margin requirements. Further, FCMs may restrict trading in virtual currency
derivatives and the exchanges on which the Virtual Currency Derivatives are traded may, with little or no
warning, impose trading halts. Any such restrictions or halts would restrict AQR’s ability to exit a Virtual
Currency Derivative position during a period of increased volatility. Investments in Virtual Currency Derivatives
carry significant risk. Clients may lose part, or the entirety, of its investment in Virtual Currency Derivatives.
Virtual currencies are a relatively new asset class with unique characteristics, and the virtual currency market
is still developing. Accordingly, the risks of investing in Virtual Currency Derivatives may not be apparent and
additional risks may present themselves in the future.
The following risks relate to the Adviser’s quantitative and statistical methods of analysis.
Computer System Risks. Throughout its investment management process and business operations, AQR
relies on a variety of computer hardware and software systems and platforms, some of which may be
proprietary while others may be licensed from third parties (such systems and platforms, collectively,
“Computer Systems”). Incorrect data, including stale or missing data, hardware or software malfunctions,
programming inaccuracies, and similar errors may impair the performance of Computer Systems, which may
negatively affect investment performance.
Crowding/Convergence. There is significant competition among quantitatively-focused managers. To the
extent that AQR’s models come to resemble those employed by other managers, the risk that a market
disruption that broadly affects the models of quantitatively-focused managers (including competitors of AQR)
may adversely affect a Client is increased, as such a disruption could accelerate reductions in liquidity or rapid
repricing due to simultaneous trading across a number of funds in the marketplace.
Involuntary Disclosure. As described under “Model and Data Risk” and “Crowding/Convergence,” AQR’s ability
to achieve its Client’s investment objective is dependent in large part on its ability to develop and protect its
models and proprietary research. The proprietary research and the Models and Data, defined below, are
largely protected by AQR through the use of policies, procedures, agreements, and similar measures designed
to create and enforce robust confidentiality, non-disclosure, and similar safeguards. However, extensive
position-level public disclosure obligations (or disclosure obligations to Clients, exchanges, or regulators with
insufficient privacy safeguards) and theft of research, technical specifications, and other data could lead to
opportunities for competitors to reverse-engineer strategies, and thereby impair the relative or absolute
performance of a Client’s portfolio.
Model and Data Risk. Given the complexity of AQR’s investments and strategies, the Adviser relies heavily
on quantitative models (both proprietary models developed by the Adviser, and those supplied by third parties),
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information and traditional and non-traditional data supplied or made available by third parties (“Models and
Data”). Models and Data are used to construct sets of transactions and investments, to value investments or
potential investments (whether for trading purposes, or for the purpose of determining the net asset value of a
Client), to provide risk management insights, and to assist in hedging the Clients’ investments, if applicable.
When Models and Data prove to be incorrect or incomplete, including because data is stale, missing, or
unavailable, any decisions made in reliance thereon expose Clients to potential risks. For example, by relying
on Models and Data, the Adviser may be induced to buy certain investments at prices that are too high, to sell
certain other investments at prices that are too low, or to miss favorable opportunities altogether. Similarly,
any hedging based on faulty Models and Data may prove to be unsuccessful.
Some of the models used by AQR are predictive in nature. The use of predictive models has inherent risks.
For example, such models may incorrectly forecast future behavior, leading to potential losses on a cash flow
and/or a mark-to-market basis. In addition, in unforeseen or certain low-probability scenarios (often involving
a market disruption of some kind), such models may produce unexpected results, which can result in losses
to a Client’s portfolio. AQR also uses machine learning, which typically has less out-of-sample evidence and
is less transparent or interpretable, which could result in errors or omissions. Furthermore, because predictive
models are usually constructed based on historical data, supplied by third parties or otherwise, the success of
relying on such models may depend on the accuracy and reliability of the historical data.
All models rely on correct data inputs. If incorrect data is entered into even a well-founded model, the resulting
valuations will be incorrect. However, even if data is input correctly, “model prices” will often differ substantially
from market prices, especially for securities with complex characteristics, such as derivative instruments.
AQR currently makes use of non-traditional data, also known as “alternative data” (e.g., data related to
consumer transactions or other behavior, social media sentiment, and internet search and traffic data). These
data sets are expected to change over time, and AQR’s use of alternative data is expected to evolve over time
as well. The decision to incorporate certain alternative data sets within a particular model is subjective and in
the sole discretion of AQR. There can be no assurance that using alternative data will result in positive
performance. Alternative data is often less structured than traditional data sets and usually has less history,
making it more complicated (and riskier) to incorporate into quantitative models. Alternative data providers
often have less robust information technology infrastructure, which can result in data sets being suspended,
delayed, or otherwise unavailable. In addition, as regulators have increased scrutiny of the use of alternative
data in making investment decisions, the changing regulatory landscape could result in legal, regulatory,
financial and/or reputational risk.
Obsolescence Risk. AQR’s strategies are unlikely to be successful unless the assumptions underlying the
models used to implement those strategies are realistic and either remain realistic and relevant in the future or
are adjusted to account for changes in the overall market environment. If such assumptions are inaccurate or
become inaccurate and are not promptly adjusted, it is likely that profitable trading signals will not be generated.
AQR’s testing of its Models and Data are directed in part at identifying these risks, but there is no guarantee
that these risks will be effectively managed. If and to the extent that the models do not reflect certain factors,
and AQR does not successfully address such omission through its testing and evaluation and modify the
models accordingly, major losses may result. AQR will continue to test, evaluate, and add new models, as a
result of which the existing models may be modified from time to time. Any modification of the models or
strategies will not be subject to any requirement that Clients receive notice of the change or that they consent
to it. There can be no assurance as to the effects (positive or negative) of any modification of the models or
strategies on a Client’s portfolio.
Operational Risk. AQR has developed systems and procedures to manage operational risk. Operational risks
arising from mistakes made in the confirmation or settlement of transactions, from transactions not being
properly booked or accounted for, or other similar disruption in the Adviser’s operations may cause a Client to
suffer financial loss, the disruption of the Adviser’s business, liability of Clients to third parties, regulatory
intervention, or reputational damage to AQR. AQR relies heavily on its portfolio management, trading,
financial, accounting, and other data processing systems. The ability of its systems to accommodate an
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increasing volume of transactions could also constrain the Adviser’s ability to properly manage a Client’s
portfolio.
Proprietary Trading Methods. Because AQR’s trading methods are proprietary, a Client will not be able to
determine any details of such methods or whether they are being followed.
Risk Associated with Use of AI. In line with advances in computing technology and data analytics, there has
been an increasing trend towards utilizing machine learning, natural language processing, artificial generative
intelligence, artificial neural networks, artificial narrow intelligence, or similar tools, models and systems
generally referred to as “artificial intelligence” (collectively, “AI Tools”) as part of portfolio management, trading,
portfolio risk management and other applications in the investment management processes used by various
market participants. AQR currently utilizes machine learning and natural language processing and may use
other AI Tools in the future in connection with its investment management activities. In addition, certain
vendors, service providers and counterparties, including third-party data or research providers, may use AI
Tools or provide AI Tools to AQR. Clients should be aware of the risks related to the use of AI Tools. Many
AI Tools are relatively recent and novel developments and may be subject to one or more undetected errors,
defects or security vulnerabilities. When using AI Tools, AQR often has limited or no visibility over the data
used to train or the technology used to create these AI Tools, as well as the accuracy and completeness of
such AI Tools. Further, the processes by which some AI Tools produce any particular output might be difficult
(or impossible) to understand, to explain, or to replicate, and there is a risk that any particular output will be
unreliable, whether because such output appears to be accurate but is not or contains other errors. Some
errors may be discovered only after an AI Tool has been used by end customers or after substantial operations
in the marketplace. Any errors, defects or security vulnerabilities discovered after such AI Tools are in
widespread operation could result in substantial loss of revenues or assets, or material liabilities, reputational
risks or sanctions. In addition, the regulatory landscape for the use of AI Tools is evolving, and the use of AI
Tools may expose AQR to new or increased governmental or regulatory scrutiny or risk of litigation. There is
no assurance that AQR can successfully assert proprietary rights in output generated by AQR’s use of AI
Tools.
Risk of Programming and Modeling Errors. AQR’s research and modeling process is extremely complex and
involves financial, economic, econometric and statistical theories, simulations, research and modeling; the
results of that process must then be translated into computer code. Although AQR seeks to hire individuals
skilled in these functions and to provide appropriate levels of oversight, the complexity of the individual tasks,
the difficulty of integrating such tasks, and the limited ability to perform “real world” testing of the end product
raises the chances that the finished model may contain an error. Programming, model or coding errors are
often difficult to detect and could go undetected for long periods of time, or never be detected, compounding
over time. If AQR determines to fix a programming, model or coding error, it may also result in unintended
consequences, including creating other errors. In addition, third party programming, model or coding errors
are outside the control of AQR. One or more of such errors could adversely affect a Client’s portfolio and
would generally not constitute a trade error subject to reimbursement under AQR’s policies. AQR also will use
other numerical estimation methods that can give sub-optimal or incorrect outputs even when coded properly.
Generally, AQR will not notify Clients or investors of non-compensable errors or incidents, including coding or
data issues. AQR’s testing of its Models and Data are directed in part at identifying these risks, but there is no
guarantee that these risks will be effectively managed.
Trading Decisions Based on Quantitative and Other Analysis. AQR’s portfolio management and trading
decisions are based on quantitative models, signals, and other analyses. Any factor that would lessen the
prospect of major trends occurring in the future (such as increased governmental control of, or participation in,
the financial markets) may reduce the prospect that a particular trading method or strategy will be profitable in
the future. In the past, there have been periods without discernible trends and, presumably, such periods will
continue to occur in the future. Moreover, any factor that would make it more difficult to execute trades at
desired prices in accordance with the signals of the trading method or strategy (such as a significant lessening
of liquidity in a particular market) would also be detrimental to profitability. Further, many advisors’ investment
models and trading methods utilize similar analyses in making trading decisions. Therefore, bunching of buy
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and sell orders can occur, which makes it more difficult for a position to be taken or liquidated. No assurance
can be given that the Adviser’s strategies will be successful under all or any market conditions.
Trading Judgment. The success of the proprietary valuation techniques and investment and trading strategies
employed by AQR is subject to the judgment and skills of the portfolio managers, research teams and (except
in respect to the Independent / RIA Accounts) trading teams. There can be no assurance that the investment
decisions or actions of the portfolio managers, researchers or trading personnel will be correct. Incorrect
decisions or poor judgment may result in substantial losses to a Client.
The above summary does not purport to be a complete discussion of all the risks associated with a Client’s specific
mandate. A Client’s offering memorandum or prospectus and supplemental disclosure document contains
additional information with respect to the risks to which the Client will be subject.
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Item 9 – Disciplinary Information
In May 2014 and July 2014, AQR notified the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (the “SFSA”) of net short
positions in two Swedish issuers pursuant to the Regulation (EU) No. 236/2012 of the European Parliament and of
the Council on short selling and certain aspects of credit default swaps (the “EU SSR”). These notifications were
made unintentionally later than the next-day notification deadline specified in the EU SSR. In both cases, the
delayed notifications were the result of unintentional error, and AQR submitted the notifications to the SFSA after
AQR’s discovery of the issue. On April 2, 2015, AQR received notice that the SFSA had decided to impose a
special fee of approximately $2,300 and $30,000 for the late notifications with respect to these two issuers. On
May 25, 2015, the decision became legally binding and AQR paid the special fees following the issuance of invoices
by the SFSA.
In June 2014 and October 2014, AQR notified the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (“AFM”) of net
short positions in two Dutch issuers pursuant to the EU SSR. These notifications were made unintentionally later
than the notification deadline specified in the EU SSR. In both cases, the delayed notifications were the result of
unintentional error, and AQR submitted the notifications to the AFM after AQR’s discovery of the issue. On April
28, 2015, AQR received a legally binding notice that the AFM had decided to impose an administrative fine of EUR
500,000 for the late notifications with respect to these two issuers, which AQR paid following the issuance of an
invoice by the AFM.
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Item 10 – Other Financial Industry Activities and Affiliations
Affiliated Broker-Dealer
In connection with the marketing of shares of the Series Funds and interests in certain Private Funds and CITs,
certain AQR personnel are registered representatives of AQR Investments, an affiliated SEC-registered broker-
dealer, member of FINRA and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. Please see Item 5 – Fees and
Compensation above for a discussion of potential conflicts of interest with respect to such employees. AQR
Investments does not: (1) engage in underwriting or market making activities; (2) handle or custody customer funds
or securities; (3) engage in execution, clearance or settlement of transactions; or (4) hold investments.
CFTC Registration Status
AQR is registered with the CFTC as a commodity pool operator and commodity trading adviser and is a member of
NFA.
Material Relationships or Arrangements with Industry Participants
AQR and CNH Capital Management, LLC (“CNH CM”) are members of AQR Arbitrage. AQR Arbitrage is a
Delaware limited liability company, SEC-registered investment adviser (SEC Number 801-60678), CFTC-registered
commodity trading adviser and commodity pool operator, and a member of the NFA. Mark L. Mitchell and Todd
Pulvino are founding principals of AQR Arbitrage. AQR Arbitrage provides discretionary investment management
services, specializing in global merger arbitrage, global convertible arbitrage, and other event driven strategies.
AQR Arbitrage serves as sub-adviser to certain AQR Clients, including certain Series Funds and AQR UCITS. AQR
Arbitrage utilizes the infrastructure of AQR for non-portfolio management functions.
CNH CM is not a registered investment adviser and does not have investment management agreements or
discretionary authority over AQR or AQR Arbitrage clients. AQR Arbitrage provides AQR with research and
investment management support services.
Mr. Kabiller is Chairman and Founding Partner of Arqitel Investment Management, LP (“Arqitel”), a company
engaged in investing in private, multi-family real estate on behalf of pooled private funds. Mr. Kabiller provides
strategic advice to the management team of Arqitel and participates on Arqitel’s investment committee. Mr. Kabiller
is not involved in the day-to-day activities of Arqitel such as managing investments or executing transactions, nor
does he participate in the solicitation or sales of Arqitel’s funds to investors. Arqitel is not a publicly traded company.
AQR or affiliated entities may also from time-to-time act as general partner or managing member to certain
Sponsored Funds formed as limited partnerships or limited liability companies. AQR or affiliated entities may act
as general partner to both the master fund (the “Master Fund”) and the feeder fund (the “Feeder Fund”) in a
Sponsored Fund that is set up in a master-feeder structure. The following AQR-affiliated entities serve as general
partner or managing member to one or more Sponsored Funds:
• AQR Principal Global Asset Allocation, LLC
• AQR Capital Management GP II Ltd.
• AQR Capital Management GP Ltd.
• AQR Capital Management II, LLC
• AQR Capital Management III, LLC
• AQR Corporate Arbitrage GP, LLC
• AQR Tax Advantaged GP, LLC
• AQR Tax Advantaged GP II, LLC
• AQR Tax Aware GP IV, LLC
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• AQR SPAC Opportunities GP, LLC
• AQR Apex MS GP, LLC
• AQR Lux S.a.r.l.
AQR, where appropriate, may recommend that one or more Sponsored Funds or Series Funds invest in other
Sponsored Funds or Series Funds, respectively, or funds managed or sub-advised by AQR Arbitrage. Investments
in affiliated funds may be made either through the Master Fund and/or Feeder Fund or one or more of the Series
Funds. AQR also employs AQR Arbitrage to perform research and investment management support services.
AQR serves as the investment adviser to, and one related person serves on the Board of Trustees of, the AQR
Funds. Subject to the overall authority of the Board of Trustees, AQR furnishes continuous investment supervision
and management to the AQR Funds’ portfolios and also furnishes office space, equipment and management
personnel, including persons satisfactory to the Board of Trustees to serve as officers of the Series Funds, and also
provides certain other administrative services to each Series Fund. AQR Arbitrage serves as the sub-adviser for
the AQR Diversified Arbitrage Fund.
AQR owns AQR Pty Limited, an Australian propriety company domiciled in Sydney, Australia. AQR Pty Limited
provides AQR with investment management marketing services in Australia under a Financial Services License
with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.
AQR also owns AQR Capital Management (UK Services) Limited (“AQR UK”), a United Kingdom private limited
company incorporated on May 10, 2012 in England and Wales. AQR UK is the managing member of AQR Capital
Management (Europe) LLP (“AQR Europe”).
AQR Europe is a UK limited liability partnership that is authorized by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”)
for advising, arranging, managing, dealing as agent (for professional investors only), and for managing unauthorized
alternative investment funds (Firm FCA Ref. No. 567411). AQR Europe is domiciled in England and Wales and
was formed on May 12, 2012. AQR Europe owns AQR Capital Management (DK Service) Aps (“AQR DK Service”),
a Danish private limited company incorporated on July 1, 2012 and domiciled in Denmark. AQR DK Service
provides AQR with research services in Denmark.
AQR Capital Management (Germany) GmbH (“AQR Germany”), incorporated in Germany and an affiliate of AQR,
has received from the Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (“BaFin”) permission to provide financial
services in the form of investment advice and investment brokering to clients in Germany and outbound passporting
throughout the European Economic Area (“EEA”) in respect of such authorizations.
AQR Capital Management (Asia) Limited is a wholly-owned subsidiary of AQR and is licensed to conduct Type 1
(Dealing in Securities) regulated activity in Hong Kong from the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission.
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Item 11 – Code of Ethics, Participation or Interests in Client Transactions and
Personal Trading
Code of Ethics
AQR’s officers, principals, and employees (collectively “Covered Persons”) must abide by AQR’s Business Conduct
Manual and Code of Ethics (the “Business Conduct Manual”), which includes AQR’s Personal Trading Policy (which
is also applicable to members of their household).
Covered Persons may hold and transact in securities only if they comply with the Personal Trading Policy. AQR
has implemented the Personal Trading Policy in order to reduce conflicts of interest between trading for Clients and
the personal trading activities of Covered Persons. Covered Persons are permitted to invest in Series Funds, Sub-
Advised Mutual Funds and Sponsored Funds, through their personal trading accounts, subject to certain
restrictions. At times, Covered Persons invest in the same or related securities as those that AQR or an affiliate
invests in for Clients, including doing so before, or at or about the same time as a Client transaction is effected.
The Personal Trading Policy also prohibits certain personal transactions, imposes restrictions on personal trading,
requires pre-clearance of certain personal trades, and requires Covered Persons to make certain reports regarding
their personal trading and private investments.
AQR is firmly committed to making its Covered Persons aware of the requirements within AQR’s Business Conduct
Manual. All Covered Persons are provided with the Business Conduct Manual at the time of hire and must certify
that they have received a copy of the Business Conduct Manual and have read and understand its provisions.
Covered Persons are also required to certify at least annually that they have complied with the terms of the Business
Conduct Manual. Additionally, AQR conducts periodic compliance training that addresses the requirements of the
Business Conduct Manual.
Clients or prospective Clients may obtain a copy of the Business Conduct Manual upon request.
Client Transactions in Securities Where Adviser has a Material Financial Interest
AQR, where appropriate, may recommend that one or more Sponsored Funds or Series Funds invest in other
Sponsored Funds or Series Funds, respectively, or funds managed or sub-advised by AQR Arbitrage. In certain
circumstances, AQR Arbitrage performs research and investment management support services for AQR. These
practices create a conflict of interest because AQR or persons affiliated with AQR have an incentive to recommend
its products to Clients based on its own financial interests or those of its affiliated persons, rather than solely the
interests of a Client.
Investing in Securities Recommended to Clients
When AQR determines that it would be appropriate for one or more Clients to participate in an investment
opportunity, AQR will seek to execute orders for all the participating accounts, including Seed Funds and Reference
Funds, on an equitable basis.
In certain circumstances, Clients take an opposite investment position (e.g., a long position versus a short position)
in the same security held by other Clients (including Seed Funds or Reference Funds). Subject to applicable laws
and/or Client restrictions, and in certain circumstances, AQR instructs on the purchase, sale or holding of a certain
security or securities for a Client (including a Seed Fund or Reference Fund) while also instructing other Clients
(including Seed Funds or Reference Funds) to enter into a different or opposite investment decision regarding the
same security or securities. Hence, AQR sometimes directs the purchase or sale of the same securities for more
than one advisory Client (including Seed Funds or Reference Funds) account on the same day (including at the
same time) in the same direction, the opposite direction, or a combination of the two directions. There are certain
disadvantages when one or more Clients simultaneously seeks to buy or sell commonly held securities and other
investment positions.
AQR will seek to allocate investment opportunities and trades fairly. “Fair” treatment does not mean identical
treatment of all Clients. Rather, it means that AQR does not discriminate on an impermissible basis against one
Client or group of Clients. When AQR transacts in securities or instruments for more than one Client, the investment
opportunities and trades will be allocated in a manner consistent with AQR’s policies and procedures. Please refer
to Item 12 – Brokerage Practices for a description of AQR’s trade aggregation and allocation procedures.
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Certain AQR personnel maintain personal private investment holdings, which include private companies and/or
private funds. Certain of these investments are maintained with third-party investment managers who sponsor
investment vehicles that compete with AQR or that AQR or certain AQR affiliates may recommend to its clients.
Furthermore, certain of these personal investments have terms that are more favorable than those routinely offered
by the unaffiliated investment manager (e.g., reduced fees). AQR reserves the right to waive or rebate all or a
portion of the management fees and/or performance fees, or to impose different management fees and/or
performance fees (including, without limitation, those that are higher, lower, calculated in a different manner or
payable at different times) with respect to its affiliated persons or other designated investors. These personal
investments may give rise to potential or actual conflicts of interest between AQR’s Clients on the one hand, and
AQR and its affiliates, on the other hand. Accordingly, AQR’s personal securities investment and reporting policies,
which require the pre-approval from the Chief Compliance Officer, or his designee, on any personal private fund or
private company investment, seek to address any potential or actual conflicts of interest relating to personal private
investments.
Investing in Securities Issued by Clients, Counterparties, and Related Parties
To the extent permitted by law and account guidelines, and in certain circumstances, AQR recommends the
purchase, sale or holding of securities issued by companies with which AQR has business relationships, including
but not limited to companies which are Clients, prospective Clients or which are affiliated with Clients, service
providers, trading counterparties, lenders or investors. These transactions are subject to the requirements and
limitations of the Code and related policies, as well as the requirements of the Advisers Act, the Company Act and/or
other applicable laws.
Conflict of Interest Created by Contemporaneous Trading
In certain circumstances, AQR, on behalf of a Client, including a Seed Fund or Reference Fund, will take a position
that is different from, and potentially adverse to, a position taken by another Client, invest in a different security of
an issuer’s capital structure in which another Client is invested, invest in the same security but on different terms
than another Client, obtain exposure to an investment using different types of securities or instruments than another
Client, engage in short selling securities that another Client holds, vote securities in a different manner than another
Client, and/or acquire or dispose of its interests at different times than another Client. This could have a material
adverse effect on, or in some instances could benefit, one or more of such Clients, including Clients that are AQR
affiliates, in which AQR has an interest, or which pay AQR higher fees or a performance fee. These transactions
or investments by one or more Clients could dilute or otherwise disadvantage the values, prices, or investment
strategies of such Clients. When AQR, on behalf of a Client, manages or implements a portfolio decision ahead of,
or contemporaneously with, portfolio decisions of another Client, market impact, liquidity constraints, or other factors
could result in such Client receiving less favorable pricing or trading results, paying higher transaction costs, or
being otherwise disadvantaged. In addition, in connection with the foregoing, AQR, on behalf of a Client, is
permitted to pursue or enforce rights or actions, or refrain from pursuing or enforcing rights or actions, with respect
to a particular issuer in which another Client has invested, even though such actions or inaction could materially
adversely affect such other Client.
Certain employees have invested their own monies in Sponsored Funds and/or Series Funds, including Seed
Funds, managed by investment personnel of AQR and/or AQR Arbitrage. These funds hold, purchase, sell, or short
the same investments in which other Clients have interests. From time to time, AQR or a related person buys or
sells securities for Clients before, or at about the same time that AQR or a related person buys or sells the same
securities for its own accounts. In order to minimize the conflicts stemming from situations where this type of
contemporaneous trading might result in an economic benefit for AQR or its affiliated persons to the detriment of a
Client, AQR has adopted the trade aggregation and allocation policies and procedures discussed in Item 12 –
Brokerage Practices below and the Business Conduct Manual discussed above.
In addition, persons affiliated with AQR provide initial funding or otherwise invest in vehicles managed by AQR
and/or AQR Arbitrage. In certain circumstances, such affiliated investors provide ‘seed capital’ for a fund and do
so with the intention of redeeming all or part of their interests at a particular future point in time or when they or
AQR deem that sufficient additional capital has been invested in that fund. Such affiliated investors are also
permitted to, and do, invest for purposes other than providing ‘seed capital’. To the extent permitted by applicable
law, AQR and/or AQR Arbitrage may agree to waive or modify the application of any provision in the offering
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documents of the subject investment vehicle (including, but not limited to, those relating to liquidity, compensation
or transparency) with respect to such affiliated investors.
Insider Trading/Material Nonpublic Information (“MNPI”)
All AQR employees are subject to the Business Conduct Manual’s Policy to Prevent Insider Trading. This section
of the Business Conduct Manual includes policies and procedures prohibiting the misuse of MNPI and is designed
to prevent insider trading by an officer or employee of the Adviser. Additionally, employees are prohibited from
transacting in the securities of the relevant issuer while in possession of MNPI that has been obtained in breach of
a duty of trust or confidence, and disclosing such MNPI to any person, including, but not limited to, family members.
In accordance with these policies, AQR maintains a “restricted list” that identifies any securities that cannot be
purchased by AQR employees, including members of their household. The issuers named on this restricted list are
coded as prohibited in AQR’s and AQR Arbitrage’s trading and portfolio compliance system, thus blocking the
Adviser from trading in these securities without the consent of the Adviser’s Chief Compliance Officer or his
designee. In certain circumstances, a Client will be restricted from transacting in a security or instrument because
of MNPI received in connection with an investment opportunity that is offered to other Clients. In other
circumstances, a Client will not participate in an investment opportunity to avoid AQR or AQR Arbitrage from
receiving MNPI that would restrict AQR or AQR Arbitrage from transacting in a security or instrument for another
Client. These restrictions may adversely impact the investment performance of Client accounts.
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Item 12 – Brokerage Practices
Clients often grant AQR responsibility for selecting brokers to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of Clients as
well as negotiating any commissions or spreads paid on such transactions, except with respect to providing model
portfolio recommendations or for Independent / RIA Accounts and Clients that have entered into directed brokerage
agreements. Other than for model portfolios, directed brokerage and Independent / RIA Accounts, securities
transactions normally will be executed through brokers selected by AQR in its sole discretion without the consent
of Clients. Before establishing a relationship with any counterparty selected by AQR, the Adviser’s Global Trading
group (“GT”) will evaluate the counterparty based on selection factors including, but not limited to, those listed
below. In addition, the Adviser’s Counterparty Risk Group will review each proposed counterparty relationship.
Only after due diligence is complete will the Counterparty Risk Group approve a counterparty. The Counterparty
Risk Group maintains a list of all counterparties approved to execute Client orders and will continue to review those
counterparties on an on-going basis. The Best Execution Committee evaluates the selection factors listed below
on an ongoing basis.
With regard to inducement rules under the recast EU Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (“MIFID II”), where
applicable AQR takes a global unbundling approach and pays for external research and data out of its own or an
affiliate’s assets.
Brokerage Relationships
AQR’s relationships with counterparties, particularly those affiliated with large financial services organizations, are
complex. AQR uses various counterparties to execute orders, provide financing to investment vehicles managed
by AQR on behalf of Clients, and also has other relationships with certain such firms including, but not limited to,
the following examples:
• AQR invests certain Client assets in securities issued by counterparties or their affiliates;
• AQR provides investment management services to certain counterparties or their affiliates;
• Certain counterparties provide both internally-generated and third-party research to AQR;
• Certain counterparties refer prospective clients to AQR, serve as placement agents or financial intermediaries,
or invest themselves in AQR’s products.
Notwithstanding such relationships or business dealings with these counterparties, AQR has a duty to Clients to
seek best execution when trading with these firms and has implemented policies and procedures to monitor its
efforts in this regard.
Selection Factors for Counterparties
Best Execution. Clients often grant AQR or its affiliates the authority to select the counterparty to be used for
the purchase or sale of securities and investments. Consequently, AQR has a duty to seek best execution of
transactions for Clients in which AQR or its affiliates select the broker or counterparty8. “Best execution” is
generally understood to mean the most favorable cost or net proceeds reasonably obtainable under the
circumstances.
In seeking best execution, the selection of executing brokers and their respective capabilities on
behalf of Clients shall be evaluated by GT and the Best Execution Committee. Each broker
evaluation shall be conducted by GT and consider factors including, but not limited to, those
described below. The determining factor is not necessarily the lowest possible commission cost, but
whether the transaction represents the best qualitative execution overall. The Best Execution
Committee has determined that the following factors, to the extent applicable, should be considered
in determining whether a broker provides best execution: competitiveness of commission rates or
8 With respect to Independent / RIA Accounts, the independent registered investment advisor (the “RIA”) that enters into the investment
management agreement with AQR on behalf of the RIA’s clients is responsible for the selection of the custodian and custodian’s affiliated
executing broker-dealer.
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spreads; execution capabilities; clearance and settlement capabilities; access to various market
centers; expertise in executing trades for a particular security type; reputation and business
practices; overall quality of broker services, including responsiveness and technology support; ability
or willingness to maintain and commit adequate capital; and the size and volume of the broker’s
order flow.
Recognizing the value of these factors, AQR may select counterparties that charge a commission in
excess of that which another counterparty might have charged for effecting the same transaction.
AQR is not obligated to choose the counterparty offering the lowest available commission rate if, in
AQR’s reasonable judgment, the total cost or proceeds from the transaction may be less favorable
than what may be obtained elsewhere or if a higher commission is justified by the service provided
by another counterparty.
Additional Considerations. When selecting brokers to execute Client trades, employees may not
consider factors that are based on a personal benefit or conflicts of interest (e.g., directing execution
as a means of compensating others for personal favors). In addition, employees are required to
disclose to the Compliance Department any related person of the employee who is employed by or
affiliated with a bank, broker-dealer, futures broker or commodities broker, which may present a
potential conflict of interest.
The AQR Mutual Funds will not compensate a broker or dealer for any promotion or sale of shares
of the AQR Mutual Funds by direction to the broker or dealer of the AQR Mutual Funds’ portfolio
securities transactions, or any remuneration (including, but not limited to, any commission, mark-up,
mark down, or other fee) received or to be received from the portfolio transactions effected through
any other broker or dealer (see Rule 12b-1(h) under the Company Act). However, the AQR Mutual
Funds are permitted to use a broker or dealer that promotes or sells the AQR Mutual Funds’ shares,
provided the business arrangement is in compliance with the conditions required by applicable law
and AQR Mutual Funds’ policies and procedures.
Review of Counterparty Execution. AQR has implemented internal controls and procedures to address the
conflicts of interest associated with its brokerage practices. To determine that it is receiving best execution for
its transactions over time, AQR will obtain information as to the general level of commission rates being charged
by the brokerage community, from time to time, and will periodically evaluate the overall reasonableness of
brokerage commissions paid on Client transactions by reference to such data. To the extent AQR has been
paying higher commission rates for its transactions, AQR will determine if the quality of execution and the
services provided by the counterparty justify these higher commissions.
AQR’s Best Execution Committee is responsible for the design, implementation and oversight of AQR’s best
execution governance framework, which includes controls, processes and systems designed to provide
reasonable assurance that best execution is achieved for all Clients for transactions directed by AQR, rather
than by the Client. The Best Execution Committee reviews commission rates by broker, country, and
investment type per Client as part of its overall responsibility. Counterparty effectiveness is evaluated on cost,
connectivity, operational performance and other related factors. Moreover, the Counterparty Risk Group
reviews credit quality and operational viability of the Adviser’s clearing and execution counterparties.
Client Restrictions. Certain Client-imposed restrictions that constrain AQR’s operational efficiency and/or
broker selection will impact AQR’s ability to achieve best execution in certain circumstances.
Directed Brokerage. AQR generally does not recommend, request, or require that Clients direct AQR to
execute transactions through a specified counterparty. However, from time to time, a Client will direct AQR to
use a particular counterparty for all or a percentage of trades (a “directed brokerage arrangement”). The Client
should consider the costs and disadvantages that may occur if a directed brokerage arrangement is employed,
such as higher commissions, less than favorable execution, and/or exclusion from trade opportunities. It is
AQR’s practice not to negotiate commission rates with directed counterparties unless expressly requested by
the Client.
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Clients with directed brokerage arrangements thus should consider the following: they may pay higher
commissions on some transactions than might be attained by AQR or receive less favorable execution on some
transactions, or both; they may not be able to participate in the allocation of initial public offerings; AQR may
wait to begin to execute transactions with directed counterparties until non-directed brokerage orders are
completed; and they may not generate returns equal to those Clients that do not have directed brokerage
arrangements. Further, Clients who designate the use of particular counterparties should understand that they
may lose the possible advantage which non-designating Clients derive from aggregation of orders for several
Clients as a single transaction for the purchase or sale of a particular security. Accordingly, a Client with a
directed brokerage arrangement should determine whether or not the specified counterparty could provide
adequate price and execution for its transactions.
RIA/Family Office Brokerage Direction and Additional Service Provider for Independent / RIA Account.
The RIAs or family offices, as applicable, are typically responsible for directing all execution for the Independent
/ RIA Accounts. It is expected that most transactions will be directed to the custodian’s affiliated broker-dealer
for execution. Such Clients should independently consider the totality of the fees and expenses of the
arrangement and determine that the broker or dealer participating in the arrangement can provide adequate
price and execution of most or all transactions. These arrangements could have a negative impact on the
overall performance of a Client’s account that would not occur if such arrangements agreed to by the Client did
not exist.
In connection with the Independent / RIA Accounts, AQR has entered into an agreement with Vestmark
Outsourcing Solutions, Inc. (“Vestmark”) under which Vestmark performs certain administrative and operational
functions for the Independent / RIA Accounts, including account administration, reconciliation, recordkeeping,
and order processing (including generation and transmission based on AQR’s instruction). Vestmark’s services
are paid for by AQR and not by the RIAs, family offices, their clients, or other individual clients who own the
Independent / RIA Accounts. AQR delivers the required information related to desired purchases and sales of
financial instruments to the Independent / RIA Account’s custodian through Vestmark, with the custodian’s
affiliated broker ultimately executing trades. In certain circumstances, Vestmark aggregates orders when
delivering orders to the custodian’s affiliated broker-dealer for execution. Orders processed by Vestmark are
not aggregated with orders for Clients that are not serviced by Vestmark.
Prime Brokerage. Many Clients have one or more prime brokers through which the Client’s trade clearance
and financing is coordinated. Certain prime brokers also provide AQR with research, reporting, and analysis
tools as part of their services.
Step-Outs. In certain circumstances, AQR uses “step-out trades” when AQR determines that the step-out
trades facilitate better execution for certain Client trades or AQR is directed to use such structure, including by
RIAs or family offices in connection with Independent / RIA Accounts. Step-out trades are transactions which
are placed at one counterparty and then “given up” or “stepped out” by that counterparty to another
counterparty. Step-out trades may benefit the Client by finding a natural buyer or seller of a particular security
so that AQR can trade a larger block of shares more efficiently. Unless directed otherwise by the Client, AQR
may use step-out trades for any Client.
Soft Dollar Arrangements. The term “soft dollars” refers generally to the practice by investment advisers of
paying for research and brokerage services using brokerage commissions generated by the execution of trades
for their clients’ accounts. AQR does not currently use soft dollars in connection with any of the Clients we
advise. To the extent AQR does use soft dollars in the future, we expect that such use will fall within the safe
harbor afforded by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
Brokerage for Client Referrals. AQR does not select counterparties based on or related to Client referrals or
in connection with past or future placement of investors into AQR Mutual Funds, AQR UCITS, or Sponsored
Funds. Certain broker-dealers host conferences and events for prospective investors. On occasion,
representatives of AQR speak at these “capital introduction” events and meet with prospective investors or their
representatives. AQR accepts subscriptions from certain investors who also provide services to Clients,
including brokers and their affiliates. Relationships such as these could be viewed as creating a conflict of
interest that potentially could affect AQR’s ability to seek best execution. While AQR’s relationship with broker-
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dealers may influence it in deciding whether to use such brokers in connection with trading, financing and other
activities of Clients, AQR will not commit with any broker to allocate a particular amount of brokerage to that
broker. In addition, AQR will not select any broker for trading purposes based upon any distribution related
activity of that broker or one of its affiliates on a Client’s behalf. AQR conducts best execution reviews on a
regular basis in an effort to mitigate potential conflicts of interest with brokerage relationships, and to provide
reasonable assurance that AQR obtains best execution for all Clients.
Trade Aggregation and Allocation. As a fiduciary, AQR and its personnel must exercise due care to
reasonably ensure that it places the interests of its Clients first and to allocate investment opportunities fairly
and equitably and in accordance with regulatory requirements. The timing, size, and frequency of trading in a
Client’s portfolio will be determined by a number of factors, including, but not limited to: (1) investment objectives
and guidelines; (2) regulatory restrictions; (3) risk tolerance including exposure control; (4) liquidity needs; (5)
redemptions and subscriptions; (6) distance from target exposure; (7) composite dispersion; and (8) market
liquidity conditions. If a Client portfolio is scheduled to trade on the same day as a separate, but similar, Client
portfolio, trading will be aggregated in certain circumstances.
As discussed in Item 6 – Performance-Based Fees and Side-By-Side Management above, side-by-side
management of various types of portfolios raises the possibility of favorable or preferential treatment of a
portfolio or a group of portfolios arising from differences in fee arrangements. AQR has implemented specific
controls built on two general principles: (1) fair allocation of a trade opportunity, and (2) fair allocation of price.
Depending upon the particular instrument, the trade opportunities in which a Client will participate are
determined by AQR’s quantitative investment models, as they prescribe the specific appetites based on pre-
determined parameters and measures for individual instruments based on the particular Client’s investment
objectives and other considerations. In certain circumstances, certain investment opportunities (e.g., new
issuances) may be allocated to some eligible Clients and not others, depending on existing holdings, investment
strategies or other pre-determined criteria. Upon completion of this process, a set of transactions are identified
that are then either traded in aggregate with other accounts with similar objectives or traded individually. When
evaluating trade opportunities for Clients, AQR’s considerations include the expected liquidity available in the
market relative to the size of the overall trades AQR will effect on behalf of Clients. AQR will also consider the
expected impact of trade activity on behalf of other persons for which AQR does not exercise investment
discretion, including persons who receive model portfolios or other persons whom AQR expects to trade in the
same instruments, if any. Taking into consideration the anticipated trading activity by these accounts has the
potential of reducing the amount of trading that AQR estimates that it will be able to implement for Clients, for
which it exercises discretion and could extend the period necessary for AQR to implement investment ideas for
such Clients.
If AQR has determined to invest at the same time for more than one of its Client portfolios, AQR will, under
certain circumstances, but is not obligated to, aggregate or “bunch” orders to obtain best execution, negotiate
more favorable commission rates, or allocate equitably among Clients differences in prices and commissions
or other transaction costs than might have been obtained had such orders been placed independently. Under
this aggregation procedure, transactions will generally be averaged as to price and allocated among Clients pro
rata, based on the original purchase and sale orders placed for each Client on any given day, and transaction
costs, with limited exceptions, will be shared pro rata based on each Client’s participation in the transaction.
To the extent that AQR determines to aggregate Client orders for the purchase or sale of investments, AQR
shall do so in a fair and equitable manner and consistent with its duty to seek best execution. AQR shall not
receive any additional compensation or remuneration as a result of the aggregation. In the event that AQR
determines not to aggregate Client orders, Clients will, under certain circumstances, be subject to different
prices and commissions or other transaction costs compared to what they would have obtained had such orders
been placed on an aggregate basis. AQR does not aggregate Independent / RIA Account orders with orders
for non-Independent / RIA Account Clients (“Institutional Clients”). However, orders for Independent / RIA
Accounts are aggregated under certain circumstances with orders for other Independent / RIA Accounts. This
means that trading will generally occur at different times and certain accounts that purchase (or sell) the same
instruments as other accounts may receive a less favorable price or higher commissions or transaction costs
compared to what they would have obtained had such orders been placed on an aggregated basis with other
Clients.
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AQR typically targets its daily trading volume for a given instrument in the applicable investable universe based
on estimates of anticipated market conditions. If an aggregate order on behalf of more than one Client cannot
be fully executed under prevailing market conditions, AQR will allocate the instruments traded among the
different Clients on the basis in which it considers equitable. In these circumstances, each Client would
generally pay (or receive), in connection with the purchase (or sale) of instruments by more than one Client,
the average price per unit acquired (or sold), which may be higher (or lower) than if it had acted alone, and it
may otherwise not be able to execute an investment decision as effectively as it could have if it had acted alone.
For a limited number of futures products where exchange average pricing is not available, AQR will utilize one
or more agency liquidity providers to manage execution, which will, in certain instances, result in Clients not
receiving the same price.
In the event that AQR determines that a pro rata allocation for partially executed aggregate orders (i.e., a “partial
fill”) is not appropriate under the particular circumstances, the allocation will be made based upon other relevant
factors, which may include, but are not limited to: (1) when only a small percentage of the order is executed,
interests may be allocated to the Client with the smallest order or the smallest position or to a Client that is out
of line with respect to target weightings relative to other Client portfolios, with similar mandates, including if the
imbalance is due to a cash subscription; (2) an allocation may be given to a Client when the Client has limitations
in its investment guidelines which prohibit it from purchasing other instruments that are expected to produce
similar investment results and can be purchased by other Clients; (3) if a Client reaches an investment guideline
limit and cannot participate in an allocation, interests may be reallocated to other Clients (this may be due to
unforeseen changes in a Client’s assets after an order is placed); (4) with respect to sale allocations, allocations
may be given to Clients low in cash, including to satisfy a cash redemption; (5) in cases when a pro rata
allocation of a potential execution would result in a de minimis allocation in one or more Clients, AQR may
exclude the Client(s) from the allocation and the transactions may be executed on a pro rata basis among the
remaining Clients; (6) in cases when there is a minimum tradeable lot size, the transaction may be allocated
first based on the minimum lot size for the security type and then the remainder shall be allocated pro rata per
applicable portfolio guidelines (unless such pro rata allocation would not meet the security’s minimum lot size,
where applicable, in which case that portfolio may be excluded from the allocation or receive an other-than pro
rata allocation); and (7) in cases where a small proportion of an order is executed in all Clients, interests may
be allocated to one or more Clients on a random basis.
As noted above, in certain circumstances AQR will utilize a Reference Fund to implement the specific model
portfolio strategy and generate orders. Trades entered on behalf of the Reference Fund may be aggregated
with other Client trades. AQR expects to deliver the model portfolio of a specific strategy to Model Platforms in
a manner and within a timeframe agreed upon in the applicable agreement, generally, after AQR has completed
all of its trading activity on behalf of AQR’s own Clients in the same or similar strategies, including any applicable
Reference Fund.
Cross Trades. Cross trades occur when AQR arranges for the purchase and sale of a security between certain
types of Clients at an AQR specified price. Under certain conditions, AQR is permitted to enter into cross trades
provided they are executed in compliance with the Advisers Act and, if pertinent, the Company Act.
Principal Trades. To the extent that AQR engages in a principal transaction covered by Section 206(3) of the
Advisers Act due to the ownership interest in a Client by AQR, its affiliates or its personnel, AQR will comply
with the requirements of Section 206(3) of the Advisers Act, including that AQR will notify the applicable Client
(or an independent representative of the Client) in writing of the transaction and obtain the Client’s consent (or
the consent of an independent representative of the Client). Section 206(3) of the Advisers Act only applies
with respect to principal transactions involving the purchase or sale of securities (and not, for the avoidance of
doubt, commodities, currencies or many of the other financial instruments in which a Client may trade).
Incident Handling Policy. AQR classifies trade errors pursuant to its own error correction policies and
procedures as those orders executed by GT without instructions or not in accordance with AQR portfolio
management team’s instructions that impact a Client’s account. Discernible net realized losses incurred by a
Client(s) due to such a trade error or due to AQR’s breach of a Client guideline or a regulatory requirement
(subject to the applicable terms of the investment management agreement) are generally reimbursable by AQR.
However, process enhancements, errors or other incidents that occur in connection with AQR’s design,
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programming or use of models and/or data sources in the investment management process that may negatively
impact a Client’s portfolio are deemed “process incidents”. Process incidents are not considered trade errors
subject to reimbursement under AQR’s policies and are assessed on a case-by-case basis, in AQR’s discretion
based on factors it considers reasonable. In addition, operational events may occur in connection with other
activities, unrelated to AQR’s investment management process (e.g., net asset value calculation and cash flow
recognition). AQR addresses operational events on a case-by-case basis, in its discretion based on factors it
considers reasonable, including regulatory requirements, contractual obligations, and business practices. AQR
in its discretion may reimburse discernable net realized losses incurred by a Client due to an operational event.
While AQR will attempt to correct an error promptly, correction of errors may be delayed in certain cases where
investigation of the error is necessary or where consultation with a particular Client is sought. AQR may correct
trade errors through any of a number of means, such as canceling a trade, correcting an allocation, or correcting
a trade error in a Client account. Where permitted by applicable laws, regulations, and contractual obligations,
AQR may correct a trade error through an error account held in AQR’s or a third party’s name. AQR will not
use another Client’s account to reimburse trade errors, nor will commission or “soft dollars” (to the extent there
are any) be used to correct Adviser trade errors.
In general, it is AQR’s policy to notify clients of incidents corrected post-settlement that violate a guideline and
certain errors that are otherwise compensable. Generally, AQR will not notify Clients or investors of non-
compensable errors or incidents. AQR may agree to comply with a specific Client’s policies regarding the
handling of errors that may be different from the policies set forth above.
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Item 13 – Review of Accounts
AQR’s portfolio managers, client administration analysts, and the Compliance Department frequently communicate
with the trading and portfolio management staff to review the status of, and to provide instructions or guidance
concerning, pending transactions for, and overall performance of, each Client’s account. The level of review and
guidance provided by AQR’s portfolio management personnel varies based upon facts and circumstances specific
to individual Clients. Generally, a review of a Client’s account includes specific instruments held, adherence to
investment guidelines, and account performance.
Although AQR reviews each Client’s account on a regular basis, there are facts and circumstances which will prompt
ad hoc reviews. Significant market events affecting the prices of one or more instruments held by a Client, changes
in investment objectives or guidelines of a particular Client, or specific arrangements with particular Clients or
investors may trigger more frequent reviews of a particular Client’s account.
In addition, various investment committees of the Adviser are responsible for monitoring investment strategies
employed by the respective portfolios. These committees generally have an overall responsibility for monitoring
the portfolios’ investments.
Subscribers in Sponsored Funds are generally furnished (i) as soon as practicable after the end of each fiscal year,
written annual reports of the relevant Sponsored Fund(s) that include audited financial statements prepared in
accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles or other acceptable accounting principles; and (ii)
on a basis no less frequently than quarterly, written unaudited reports on the operations of the relevant Sponsored
Fund(s) which include a statement of the net asset value of the Subscriber’s interest in such Sponsored Fund(s).
Subscribers in Sponsored Funds receive reports from AQR pursuant to the terms of each Sponsored Funds’ offering
memoranda or investor Side Letter.
Institutional Managed Account and Independent / RIA Account Clients receive regular written reports from their
custodian and receive operational reports from AQR upon request or as required in the investment management
agreement. See also Item 15.
Investors in AQR Mutual Funds receive, or have access to, certain written quarterly and other periodic reports of
open-ended registered investment companies, which are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and
certain of these reports are also posted to the AQR Mutual Funds website https://funds.aqr.com. In addition, on or
about 15 days following the end of each calendar quarter, each Series Fund will make available on the AQR Mutual
Funds website, a complete uncertified schedule of its portfolio holdings as of the end of the quarter.
Investors in AQR UCITS receive regular written reports from AQR in accordance with the principles established in
the UCITS directives.
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Item 14 – Client Referrals and Other Compensation
Relationships with Consultants
Many of AQR’s Clients and prospective Clients retain investment consultants to advise them on the selection and
review of investment managers. AQR has certain Clients that were introduced to AQR through consultants. These
consultants or their affiliates may, in the ordinary course of their investment consulting business, recommend AQR’s
investment advisory services or otherwise place AQR into searches or other selection processes for a particular
client.
AQR has extensive dealings with investment consultants, both in the consultants’ role as adviser for their clients
and through independent business relationships. Specifically, AQR provides consultants with information on
portfolios it manages for its mutual clients, pursuant to its Clients’ directions. AQR also provides information on its
investment styles and performance to consultants, who use that information in connection with searches they
conduct for their clients. AQR also responds to “Requests for Proposals” from prospective clients in connection
with those searches. In addition, in certain circumstances:
• AQR invites consultants to events or other entertainment hosted by AQR.
• AQR pays registration or other fees for the opportunity to participate, along with other investment managers, in
consultant-sponsored industry forums or conferences. These conferences or forums provide AQR with the
opportunity to discuss a variety of business topics with consultants, Clients, and prospective Clients.
•
In some cases, AQR serves as investment adviser for the accounts of consultants or their affiliates or as adviser
or sub-adviser for funds offered by consultants and/or their affiliates.
In general, AQR relies on each consultant to make appropriate disclosure to its clients of any conflict that the
consultant believes to exist due to its relationship with AQR.
Relationships with Brokers
As discussed in Item 12 – Brokerage Practices, AQR currently does not have any soft dollar arrangements. AQR
does receive research and brokerage services from certain counterparties that execute trades for Clients. As noted
in Item 12 – Brokerage Practices, with regard to inducement rules under MiFID II, where applicable, AQR takes a
global unbundling approach and pays for external research and data out of its own or an affiliate’s assets. AQR
has a duty to seek overall best execution of transactions for Clients and has instituted internal controls and
procedures designed to ensure that AQR is receiving best execution for Client transactions over time, taking into
account all pertinent factors.
Other Relationships
In certain cases, AQR compensates certain third parties for investor referrals from AQR’s own resources. In other
cases, and as disclosed in the relevant fund offering materials, compensation for such third-party investor referrals
is paid for by the relevant fund or by the relevant investor. Any such activities will be consistent, as pertinent, with
Rule 206(4)-1 under the Advisers Act or other applicable law. The cost of these referral fees is paid entirely by
AQR and is not borne by the referred investor.
AQR is a party to Client Service/Marketing Agreement(s) with one or more subsidiaries of AMG, under which the
AMG subsidiaries provide marketing assistance and support with respect to separately managed accounts and
investment funds offered by AQR in certain countries.
AQR and/or certain Sponsored Funds have engaged external placement agents for placement of new fund
interests. Placement agents that introduce investors to a Sponsored Fund are subject to a conflict of interest to the
extent that they will be compensated in connection with their introduction activities. If a prospective investor is
introduced to a Sponsored Fund through a placement agent, appropriate disclosure will be made to such
prospective investor regarding the arrangement, if any, with such placement agent. If any placement agent receives
compensation for its services, such compensation would be made on a fully disclosed basis as outlined in the
Sponsored Fund’s offering documentation.
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In certain circumstances, AQR (or an affiliate) makes payments out of its own resources to certain financial
intermediaries or their affiliates based on sales or assets attributable to the intermediary, or such other criteria
agreed to by AQR in connection with the sale or distribution of a Series Fund’s shares and/or the administration of
shareholder accounts. AQR selects the intermediaries to which it or its affiliate makes these payments. These
additional payments to intermediaries, which are sometimes referred to as “revenue sharing” payments, may
represent a premium over payments made by other fund families, and investment professionals may have an added
incentive to sell or recommend a Series Fund or a share class of the Series Fund over others offered by competing
fund families. In certain circumstances, AQR makes other payments to broker-dealers and/or financial
intermediaries to the extent permitted by SEC and FINRA rules and by other applicable laws and regulations, such
as paying registration or other fees for the opportunity to participate, along with other investment managers, in
industry-sponsored industry forums or conferences. These conferences or forums provide AQR with the opportunity
to discuss a variety of business topics with industry participants, consultants, clients, and prospective clients.
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Item 15 – Custody
AQR is deemed to have custody of the assets of Private Funds and AQR UCITS by virtue of AQR’s or its affiliates’
control over such funds’ assets or role as general partner and/or managing member of such funds. Investment
advisers with custody of client funds or securities are required to comply with the requirements of Rule 206(4)-2 of
the Advisers Act. AQR does not have actual physical custody of any investor funds or securities invested in such
funds; rather, all such assets are held in the name of each of the applicable funds by an independent qualified
custodian. Each applicable fund is audited annually by an independent public accountant, and investors receive
annual financial statements within 120 days following such fund’s fiscal year end, as required by applicable law.9
AQR does not custody the assets of the AQR Mutual Funds, CITs, Australian Funds, Institutional Managed
Accounts, or of the Independent / RIA Accounts. Institutional Managed Accounts and Independent / RIA Accounts
must make their own arrangements for custody of securities. Such custodians may be broker-dealers, prime
brokers, banks, trust companies, or other qualified institutions. The qualified custodian will typically provide these
Clients with at least quarterly account statements relating to the assets held within the account advised by AQR.
These Clients should carefully review the qualified custodian’s statement upon receipt to determine that it
completely and accurately states all holdings in the account and all account activity over the relevant period. Any
discrepancies identified by a Client should be immediately reported to AQR and the qualified custodian.
In addition to the account statements provided by qualified custodians to AQR’s Institutional Managed Accounts,
AQR also provides account statements to Institutional Managed Accounts and Independent / RIA Accounts on a
periodic basis, as agreed upon between the applicable Clients and the Adviser. These statements are intended to
complement, not replace, the statements provided by the Institutional Managed Account’s or Independent / RIA
Account’s qualified custodian. As such, AQR encourages Institutional Managed Accounts and Independent / RIA
Accounts to compare the statements provided to them by AQR against those provided to them by their qualified
custodians who hold the assets of their accounts, and to report any questions, concerns, or discrepancies to both
the Adviser and the qualified custodian promptly. AQR’s statements may vary from custodial statements based on
accounting procedures, reporting dates, and/or valuation methodologies of certain securities. However, please
note that custodian statements reflect the official books and records for the Institutional Managed Accounts and
Independent / RIA Accounts.
9 Private Funds that rely on CFTC Rule 4.7 provide their Subscribers with annual reports within 90 days of the Sponsored Fund’s fiscal year
end.
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Item 16 – Investment Discretion
AQR generally provides investment advisory services on a discretionary basis to Clients, though as noted above in
Item 4 – Advisory Business, AQR does provide non-discretionary model portfolio recommendations to Model
Platforms.
Prior to assuming discretion in managing a Client’s assets, the Adviser enters into a written investment management
agreement or other agreement that sets forth the scope of the Adviser’s discretion.
The agreement gives the Adviser the authority to determine the timing and amount of securities and other
instruments to be purchased and sold for the Client account (subject to restrictions on AQR’s activities set forth in
the applicable agreement, any written investment guidelines and applicable law). Because of the differences in
Client investment objectives and strategies, risk tolerances, tax status, liquidity considerations, and other criteria,
there may be differences among Clients in invested positions and amounts held. Please see Item 12 – Brokerage
Practices.
From time to time, certain securities, non-securities contracts and/or other investment instruments that are or were
held by Clients are the subject of a class action or other legal proceeding. AQR utilizes the services of Financial
Recovery Technologies (“FRT”) to identify, analyze, assert and file claims in class actions and other legal
proceedings on behalf of its UCITS Funds, Sponsored Funds and Series Funds and any Institutional Managed
Accounts that have expressly delegated such authority to AQR. FRT retains a percentage of any recovery, subject
to certain maximums, as payment for the claims that it files on behalf of AQR Clients.
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Item 17 – Voting Client Securities
AQR’s authority to vote proxies for its Clients, if granted, is established by its investment advisory agreements or
comparable documents. AQR has established proxy voting policies and procedures, and AQR’s Compliance
Department monitors the proxy voting process. The proxy voting procedures are designed to ensure that proxies
are voted in the Clients’ best interest. AQR will generally vote proxies according to the proxy voting guidelines
adopted by AQR and agreed upon with an independent third-party proxy voting advisor. From time to time, AQR
will determine to vote a particular proxy contrary to the agreed upon voting guidelines which could give rise to
potential conflict of interest. AQR’s Proxy Voting Policy includes guidelines to identify and resolve conflict of
interests related to voting proxies on behalf of AQR’s Clients.
AQR’s authority to vote proxies for its Clients is not a material component of any of AQR’s investments or strategies.
AQR typically follows a systematic, research-driven approach, applying quantitative tools to process fundamental
information and manage risk, significantly reducing the importance and usefulness of the proxies AQR receives and
votes, or causes to be voted, on behalf of its Clients. Additionally, from time to time, AQR may not or may not be
able to cast a vote prior to the cutoff date for reasons including, but not limited to, timing of transferring proxy
information or account setup. AQR does not view non-voted proxy ballots to be a material issue for either the
Clients or AQR’s investment strategies.
Upon request, AQR will provide Clients with a copy of its proxy voting policies and procedures and information on
how the Client’s proxies were instructed to be voted. In certain circumstances, Clients are permitted to direct their
votes in a particular solicitation. A Client that wishes to direct its vote in a particular solicitation shall give reasonable
prior written notice to AQR indicating such intention and provide written instructions directing AQR to vote in regard
to the particular solicitation. Where such prior written notice is received, AQR will vote proxies in accordance with
such written instructions received from the Client on a best effort’s basis.
AQR from time to time discusses certain matters with issuers to represent Client interests; however, regardless of
such conversations, AQR acquires securities on behalf of Clients solely for the purpose of investment and not with
the purpose or intended effect of changing or influencing the control of any issuer.
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Item 18 – Financial Information
This Item is not applicable.
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Additional Information – Notice to Canadian Clients
AQR Capital Management, LLC hereby provides notice that it has filed to rely, and is actively relying on the
International Adviser Exemption in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario,
Quebec, and Saskatchewan, pursuant to National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and
Ongoing Registrant Obligations (“NI 31-103”). For purposes of such exemption, AQR is required to advise you of
the following:
1. AQR Capital Management, LLC is not registered as an adviser in any province or territory of Canada;
2.
the jurisdiction of AQR Capital Management, LLC’s head office and principal place of business is the state of
Connecticut, United States;
3. all or substantially all of AQR Capital Management, LLC’s assets are or may be situated outside of Canada;
4.
there may be difficulty enforcing legal rights against AQR Capital Management, LLC in Canada because it is
resident outside Canada and all or substantially all of its assets are or may be situated outside of Canada;
5.
the full name and address of AQR Capital Management, LLC’s agents for service of process in each of the
exempted jurisdictions of Canada, can be found below.
Please note that our agents for service are solely for purposes of serving upon us notices, pleadings, subpoenas,
summons or other proceedings arising out of or relating to or concerning our activities.
Should you have any questions or require any information, please contact us at 203-742-3600 or info@aqr.com.
AQR Capital Management, LLC has appointed the following agents for service of process in the Canadian provinces
listed below:
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Agent for Service of Process
Jurisdiction
Alberta
Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP
Suite 2700, Brookfield Place
225 – 6th Avenue S. W.
Calgary, AB T2P 1N2
British Columbia
Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP
Suite 3000, Bentall Four
1055 Dunsmuir Street
Vancouver, BC V7X 1K8
Manitoba
MLT Aikins LLP
30th Floor, 360 Main Street
Winnipeg, MB R3C 4G1
Nova Scotia
Stewart McKelvey
Queen’s Marque
600-1741 Lower Water Street
Halifax, NS B3J 0J2
Ontario
Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP
100 King Street West
1 First Canadian Place, Suite 6200
Toronto, ON M5X 1B8
Québec
Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP
1000 rue de la Gauchetiere Street West
Suite 2100
Montréal, QC H3B 4W5
Saskatchewan
McDougall Gauley LLP
1500 – 1881 Scarth Street
Regina, SK S4P 4K9