The European Commission adopts AIFMD implementing regulation

Purpose – This article aims to outline in depth the European Commission's adopted implementing rules (the Regulation) for the Directive on Alternative Investment Fund Managers. These new regulations have been eagerly awaited by private equity fund managers and their investors who have been seeking a measure of certainty about how the AIFMD will be transposed into local law. Design/methodology/approach – This piece summarizes some of the key points of the Regulation. Findings – This article addresses the rules in the Regulation concerning: the calculations of assets under management; capital requirements in relation to professional liability risks applicable to alternative investment fund managers; operating conditions for alternative investment fund managers, including liquidity management, organizational requirements and rules on valuation; conditions for delegation; rules on depositaries, including the depositary's tasks and liability; transparency, reporting and disclosure requirements; and rules for cooperation arrangements. Practical implications – The Regulation supplements certain elements of the Directive and contains implementing rules that will have direct effect in EU member states on application without the need for national implementing legislation. By discussing some of the highlights of the Regulation, the article will help fund managers and investors gain a better perspective of the AIFMD, which is useful from both a compliance and business planning standpoint. Originality/value – This piece is of value to those private equity fund managers and investors looking for guidance as to how to digest the Regulation and the implications of these new measures on their respective businesses, as well as the investment marketplace as a whole moving forward.