Texas Senate Bill SB1555

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/18/11
• Introduced: 3/10/11
• Refer: 3/23/11
• Report Pass: 4/18/11

Caption

Relating to the investment of the permanent university fund and other funds under the management and control of the board of regents of The University of Texas System.

Impact

By mandating that investment contracts be awarded with a good faith effort towards engaging qualified emerging fund managers, this bill could lead to a significant shift in investment practices within the Texas university system. It promotes inclusivity within the investment community, aiming to foster competition and innovation among smaller, newer firms. The bill's provisions are designed to ensure that large financial services firms do not monopolize the investment landscape, thereby providing more equitable opportunities in the financial sector.

Summary

SB1555 focuses on the investment strategies for the Permanent University Fund and other funds managed by the University of Texas System. The bill emphasizes the need for increased participation of emerging fund managers in the awarding of investment contracts. This initiative aims to diversify the investment management landscape and promote financial opportunities for smaller investment firms that have traditionally been underrepresented in the market. The definitions provided in the bill clarify who qualifies as an 'emerging fund manager' and the types of financial services included under this category.

Contention

The discussions surrounding SB1555 highlight concerns regarding the implementation and potential unintended consequences of favoring emerging fund managers. Advocates argue that this measure is crucial for promoting diversity and ensuring that a broader range of investment strategies can be considered. However, critics might raise questions about the effectiveness of such an approach and whether it could inadvertently lead to the selection of less experienced managers. Balancing the promotion of new firms with the need for experienced management in high-stakes investment scenarios is a key tension that needs to be addressed.