College Endowments Lose At Least $94.5 Billion

Posted by Bull Bear Trader | 1/27/2009 06:36:00 AM | | 0 comments »

Recent data shows that the aggregate investment loses at college endowments have been at least $94.5 billion (see WSJ article) from the five month period between July 1 and November 30 of 2008.

Source: Wall Street Journal

The loses have resulted in an average 23 percent decline - less than the 29 percent loss by the S&P 500 during the same five month period. Losses from illiquid investments, such as real estate and private equity, are not included in the reported numbers. Such losses are causing many schools to consider spending cuts, and may force some to increase endowment spending rates. On average, college endowments spend 4.6 percent, but this figure could rise to 6 percent, higher than the minimum 5 percent annual payments required of private foundations.

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